Railway tourism and local events highlighted in Japan

The December 2026 issue of the magazine ‘Tabi to Tetsudo’ (Travel and Railway), published by Ikaros Publications, features a special report on railway gourmet travel. The issue explores various ways to combine train travel with local cuisine, including dining on the ‘Shimakaze’ sightseeing express, meals in preserved vintage carriages, station cafes, and traditional station-side eateries. It also covers regional delicacies selected by professional railway photographers and explores bento box culture along the Tokaido Shinkansen.

Separately, Echigo Tokimeki Railway has announced the 8th Nihongi Station Railway Festival, scheduled for October 31, 2026. The event will feature mini-shinkansen rides, student-led activities from Niigata University, a lottery for original goods, and various food trucks. As part of the festival, the railway is offering a free day of unlimited travel on all local trains for elementary school students.