Category: Shinkansen Travel

⚠️ Notice: Services Have Ended
The Hello Kitty-themed Haruka Limited Express ended its service in March 2026, and the Hello Kitty Shinkansen ran its final journey on Sunday, May 17, 2026. This article is preserved as a record of our experience on board at the time of travel.

Did You Know? There Were Two Hello Kitty Trains Running in Kansai

Even among railway fans, many people didn’t know — but there were actually two Hello Kitty-themed trains running in the Kansai region. One was the Haruka Limited Express airport train, and the other was the Hello Kitty Shinkansen. In this article, we’ll introduce both!

① Haruka Limited Express — Peek Inside and You’ll Find Hello Kitty Headcovers!

The Haruka Limited Express is a convenient way to travel between Kansai International Airport and Kyoto or Shin-Osaka. Take a peek inside the cabin and you’ll spot adorable Hello Kitty headcovers on the seats. Sadly, the Hello Kitty version of Haruka ended its service in March 2026 — sooner than many fans expected.

The Haruka is operated by JR West and connects Kansai International Airport to Kyoto in approximately 75 minutes. It accepts IC cards such as ICOCA and Suica. The “ICOCA & HARUKA” combo ticket was also a great value option, especially popular among international visitors.

② Hello Kitty Shinkansen — The 500 Series Train Worth Planning a Trip Around

And then there was the Hello Kitty Shinkansen — the train I had always dreamed of riding, and finally got to experience!

Running just one round trip per day between Hakata and Shin-Osaka, this was a rare train that required advance reservations for anyone hoping to get on board.

Hello Kitty Everywhere — Inside and Out!

What made the Hello Kitty Shinkansen truly special was that the Hello Kitty theme didn’t stop at the exterior — the entire interior was Hello Kitty too. Seats, walls, floors… Hello Kitty appeared everywhere, and the excitement kicked in the moment you stepped on board.

Hello Kitty Merchandise Available On Board

Another highlight was the exclusive Hello Kitty Shinkansen merchandise sold inside the train. Even if you’re not a die-hard Hello Kitty fan, the cuteness was hard to resist — and before I knew it, I had a bag full of souvenirs! (laughs)

The Hello Kitty Shinkansen was operated by JR West using the 500 Series Shinkansen, running one round trip daily between Hakata and Shin-Osaka. The 500 Series itself is a beloved classic among railway enthusiasts, known for its distinctive rounded nose design.

Who Would Love the Hello Kitty Shinkansen?

• Hello Kitty fans of all ages
• Anyone who wants to ride the iconic 500 Series Shinkansen
• Travelers looking for a fun and unique train experience
• Families with young children
• Anyone planning a special trip for international friends

For Those Who Missed It — Keep the Memories with Merchandise

While both trains have now retired from service, Hello Kitty Shinkansen commemorative merchandise is still available on platforms like Rakuten. Even if you never got the chance to ride, picking up a souvenir is a wonderful way to connect with the magic of these trains.

It’s also worth noting that the 500 Series Shinkansen itself continues to run on some routes, even after the Hello Kitty wrap was removed. Its iconic rounded nose remains a favorite among railway fans, and spotting one still makes you want to reach for your camera.

Summary: Two Hello Kitty Trains of Kansai

Both trains have completed their service, but the joy they brought to passengers lives on in the memories of railway fans everywhere. Whether you were lucky enough to ride them or not, the Hello Kitty trains will always hold a special place in the story of Japanese railway history.

Spring 2026 — the day has finally come. With the beloved 500 Series Hello Kitty Shinkansen heading into retirement, we set off on one last ride to bid it farewell! We also hopped aboard the Anpanman Train in Shikoku, making this a dream trip packed with character trains from start to finish.

The Pink Dream Train: Hello Kitty Shinkansen

As the vivid pink 500 Series Hello Kitty Shinkansen glided into the platform at Shin-Osaka Station, our mascots let out a collective “Wow, it’s real! So cute!” — and stood completely frozen on the platform for a good while.

Since its debut in 2018, this train has captured the hearts of fans across Japan with its charming appearance. The 500 Series, with its sleek aerodynamic form, was once the fastest Shinkansen on the Nozomi route — a legendary train in its own right. Wrapped in Hello Kitty’s iconic style, it took on an entirely new kind of charm.

Stepping inside, Car 1 — the “HELLO! PLAZA” — was filled with limited-edition merchandise and photo spots. The corner where you could take commemorative photos with Hello Kitty was especially popular, given that this was one of the final rides. Even the headrest covers featured Hello Kitty designs, showing just how much attention to detail went into every corner of the train. The roughly one hour to Okayama passed like a dream, with our mascots smiling the entire way.

💡 Travel Tip: The HELLO! PLAZA in Car 1 is located in the unreserved seating area, meaning you can visit the shop and photo spots with just a regular ticket. It gets crowded quickly, so head there as soon as you board!

Shikoku’s Beloved Icon: The Anpanman Train to Tokushima

From Okayama, we boarded the Marine Liner rapid service across to Takamatsu — and from there, our Shikoku adventure truly began. We were about to ride the Anpanman Train on the Kotoku Line, a service that launched in October 2025. Operated by JR Shikoku, the Anpanman Train runs on multiple routes centered around Kochi, the hometown of creator Takashi Yanase.

The moment our mascots spotted Anpanman and his friends painted across the entire side of the train, they burst out with “Anpanman! Baikinman is there too!” — pure joy. It’s the kind of sight that brings out the child in anyone. The interior is completely themed around the world of Anpanman, creating a space that puts smiles on the faces of families with children and adults alike. There were also unique characters like “Udon-chan” and “Udon-kun,” a charming nod to the region’s famous Sanuki udon — just one of many delightful surprises waiting inside the train.

💡 Travel Tip: The Anpanman Train operates on specific dates and routes. Be sure to check the official JR Shikoku website for the current schedule before making your plans.

What Makes Character Trains So Special

Both the Hello Kitty Shinkansen and the Anpanman Train are more than just a way to get from A to B — they are destinations in themselves. Character trains give children something to dream about, while offering adults a sense of nostalgia and warmth. Gazing out the window, surrounded by beloved characters, turns an ordinary journey into something truly memorable.

Saying goodbye to the 500 Series Hello Kitty Shinkansen is bittersweet — but the memories from this trip will stay with us forever. If you ever get the chance, hop aboard one of Japan’s many character trains and experience the magic for yourself!

Trip Summary

📝 500 Series Hello Kitty Shinkansen — Basic Information

📝 500 Series Hello Kitty Shinkansen — Key Facts

・Route: Shin-Osaka to Hakata
・Travel time: Approx. 2.5 hours (compared to Nozomi)
・Operation period: 2018 – May 17, 2026 (service ended)
・Features: Car 1 “HELLO! PLAZA” with Kitty-themed interior
・Reservations: JR tickets, e5489, or Midori-no-madoguchi

💡 For Those Considering a Ride
The 500 Series Hello Kitty Shinkansen concluded its service on May 17, 2026. For information on successor character trains, please visit the JR West official website.

Hello, welcome to the Mascots Travel Blog! Today, we’re sharing an unexpected and unforgettable encounter at Utsunomiya Station.

A Flash of Crimson on the Platform

That day, I was standing on the Shinkansen platform at Utsunomiya Station, heading to Tokyo on a business trip as usual. I was scrolling through my phone when something caught my eye — the light on the platform seemed to glow red. I looked up, and there it was.

The E8 Series Shinkansen “Tsubasa,” dressed in its striking crimson livery, was gliding silently into the station. Known as the “Kabuki Color,” this train carried an overwhelming presence, as if it had stepped straight off the stage of a traditional Japanese performance.

The Appeal of the E8 Series “Kabuki Color”

The E8 Series debuted in 2024 as the latest addition to the Yamagata Shinkansen line. Its most distinctive feature is undoubtedly its deep, rich crimson color — inspired by the safflower, the prefectural flower of Yamagata. This color scheme is a masterpiece that expresses Japan’s traditional beauty through modern technology.

The sharp nose of the lead car paired with the lustrous red finish is a perfect fusion of “Japanese tradition” and “modern design.” Other passengers on the platform couldn’t help but reach for their cameras — and neither could I. I was completely captivated, snapping photo after photo.

E8 Series — Basic Information

Utsunomiya Station — A Hidden Gem for Shinkansen Spotting

Utsunomiya Station is actually a quietly popular spot among Shinkansen enthusiasts. Since it sits before Fukushima Station — where the Tohoku Shinkansen and Yamagata Shinkansen “Tsubasa” connect and separate — there are great chances to see the E8 Series up close.

It’s also far less crowded than Tokyo Station, making it a relaxed and comfortable place for photography.

Tips for Shinkansen Spotting at Utsunomiya Station:

• Less crowded — plenty of time and space for photos
• Chances to see the E8 “Tsubasa” alongside the E5 “Hayabusa”
• Combine your visit with Utsunomiya’s famous gyoza for a perfect day out

Interior Features and Comfort of the E8 Series

The appeal of the E8 Series “Tsubasa” goes far beyond its stunning exterior. Step inside, and you’ll find even more to be amazed by.

The seat design incorporates traditional Japanese aesthetics that complement the “Kabuki Color” theme seen on the outside. The colors and materials used throughout the cabin draw inspiration from Yamagata and Tohoku’s cultural heritage, creating an atmosphere that feels like a museum on wheels.

Every seat is equipped with a power outlet, so you never have to worry about your smartphone or laptop running out of battery on longer journeys. Free Wi-Fi is also available, keeping you connected throughout the ride.

The train is also fully accessible, with designated wheelchair spaces and multipurpose restrooms. Families with young children and elderly passengers can travel with peace of mind.

Planning to Ride the E8? Check the “Tsubasa” Schedule

The E8 Series currently operates as the Tohoku/Yamagata Shinkansen “Tsubasa.” From Tokyo to Fukushima, it runs coupled with the Tohoku Shinkansen “Yamabiko,” then separates at Fukushima Station to continue toward Yamagata.

If you’re planning a trip to the Yamagata area, be sure to request the E8 Series “Tsubasa” when booking. You can check which train set is assigned through the JR East “Ekinet” website or at a Midori-no-madoguchi ticket counter.

A Small Miracle Hidden in Everyday Life

This unexpected encounter was one of those small miracles that make everyday life special. The fact that a business trip can lead to an encounter with such a beautiful train — that’s exactly what makes railway travel so wonderful. If you ever find yourself at Utsunomiya Station, take a moment to pause on the platform. You never know what beautiful train might be waiting for you.

Stay tuned for our next travel blog post!

“If We Have to Change Plans — Let’s Go All Out!”

The moment that decision was made, the excitement level shot through the roof. Sometimes a typhoon is not such a bad thing after all! (laughs)

FEmergency meeting conclusion ①: Gran Class.

One step above the already-premium Green Car, Gran Class is the absolute top tier of Shinkansen travel. With barely a handful of other passengers on board, we sank into the luxurious leather reclining seats and let the attentive attendant service, drinks, and desserts wash away every last worry about the typhoon. Pure bliss.

The seats recline to nearly 160 degrees, making it feel like the business class cabin of an airplane. The light meals and sweets served on board are refined and delicious, turning the journey itself into the main event of the trip. Once you’ve experienced Gran Class, it might be hard to go back to ordinary seating — fair warning! (laughs)

Gran Class is the highest class of seating available on Shinkansen operated by JR East, JR West, and JR Hokkaido. Featuring leather electric reclining seats and dedicated attendant service, it is the closest thing to first-class air travel — on the ground.

Second Decision: Green Car on the Limited Express Hida — Double the Luxury!

Emergency meeting conclusion ②: Green Car on the Limited Express Hida.

The Green Car on the Hida heading toward Nagoya was equally blissful — again, almost entirely to ourselves. Gazing out at the lush summer scenery of Gifu Prefecture rolling past the window, any lingering anxiety about the typhoon simply melted away.

Limited Express Hida is operated by JR Central, connecting Nagoya with Hida-Takayama and Toyama. The sweeping mountain scenery of the Hida region visible from the windows makes it one of Japan’s most scenic limited express routes.

Unexpected Stop at Gifu Station — Typhoon Forces a Suspension!

Just as we were approaching Gifu Station, the Limited Express Hida came to a sudden halt. The typhoon had forced a suspension of service.

So close to Nagoya, yet so far! With no choice but to adapt, we transferred to the Meitetsu (Nagoya Railroad) at Gifu Station to complete the journey to Nagoya.

An unexpected bonus Meitetsu ride had been added to the itinerary (laughs).

Meitetsu (Nagoya Railroad) is a private railway connecting Aichi and Gifu Prefectures. The Meitetsu limited express from Meitetsu-Gifu Station to Meitetsu-Nagoya Station takes approximately 30 minutes.

A Wonderful Surprise — The Green Car Fare Was Refunded!

We had resigned ourselves to the situation — “Well, at least we enjoyed the Green Car as far as Gifu!” — when something unexpected happened.

Because the train had failed to reach its destination, the limited express and Green Car surcharge was automatically refunded!

What started as a luxury splurge had somehow transformed into a bargain trip. The typhoon’s disruption turned into a delightful surprise ending.

What to Remember When Travelling by Train During a Typhoon

Here are some useful tips we learned from this experience:

Refund Rules If a limited express or Shinkansen service is suspended or fails to reach your destination, the limited express surcharge and Green Car fee will be refunded. Don’t panic — simply visit the station ticket window and ask for assistance.

Make Use of Alternative Transport When services are suspended, replacement transport on alternative lines is often made available. Our Meitetsu transfer is a perfect example of this in action.

Travel with a Flexible Schedule
When traveling during typhoon season, it’s important to build extra time into your itinerary between connections. Just like on this trip, unexpected delays can happen — but if you have time to spare, you can handle the situation calmly without panicking.

Summary | Turning Travel Chaos into Luxury Memories

A typhoon threw our plans into chaos — but it gave us one of the most memorable summer journeys we’ve ever had. Unexpected changes are all part of the adventure. There is something about the luxury of a premium train seat that gives you the mental space to enjoy whatever comes your way. Why not treat yourself to a Green Car or Gran Class experience on your next trip?

 Full Gran Class travel report → 【Internal Link】

The Rice Fields of Akita and the Komachi — A View That Takes Your Breath Away

Traveling on the Akita Shinkansen Komachi, the scenery that unfolds outside the window is simply breathtaking — endless rice paddies stretching as far as the eye can see. Akita is the birthplace of the famous Akita Komachi brand of rice, and fittingly, the Komachi train glides gracefully through golden fields of the very crop that shares its name. It’s a view that instantly lifts your travel spirits.

Unlike other Shinkansen lines, the Akita Shinkansen runs on conventional tracks for part of its route, giving it a unique combination of high-speed travel and local, countryside charm — a line that every railway enthusiast should experience at least once.

Destination: Kakunodate | “Flouro Kakunodate” — Just Steps from the Station

Our accommodation for this trip was Flouro Kakunodate, located just a short walk from Kakunodate Station.

But this is no ordinary hotel. For railway fans, it offers something truly special — a Komachi-themed room that is absolutely one of a kind.

The Door of the Komachi Room Is Something Else

The room door features the Komachi logo and markings, and just walking down the corridor toward your room is enough to set your heart racing. It’s a level of thoughtful detail you simply won’t find in a regular hotel.

The Room Key Is Yours to Keep as a Souvenir!

Even more exciting — the hotel officially allows guests to take their room key home as a souvenir. Laying out the amenities and the room key together for a commemorative photo makes for a travel keepsake that will last a lifetime. It’s little touches like this that make a trip truly unforgettable.

A Front-Row Seat for the Komachi — Right from Your Room!

And the highlight of the stay? The view from the window.

Looking out from the room, Kakunodate Station spreads out before you, and you can watch the Komachi train pull in and out of the station — from the comfort of your own bed. It’s a railway fan’s dream come true, and a view that only guests of this very special hotel get to enjoy.

What exactly does it look like? That’s for you to discover when you stay — it’s a secret worth keeping!

Who Is Flouro Kakunodate Perfect For?

• Fans of the Akita Shinkansen Komachi
• Travelers looking to explore Kakunodate’s samurai district and cherry blossoms
• Anyone wanting a unique railway-themed hotel experience
• Those seeking a truly special and memorable travel memory

Kakunodate is especially popular during cherry blossom season (late April) and autumn foliage season (October), when accommodation fills up very quickly. Early booking is strongly recommended!

Summary | Flouro Kakunodate Is a Must for Railway Fans Visiting Tohoku

This was truly one of the most memorable hotel stays we’ve ever had. If you’re planning a trip on the Akita Shinkansen Komachi, make Flouro Kakunodate your base — you won’t regret it!

▶ More Tohoku railway travel reports → 【Internal Link】

The Legend Lives On — Doctor Yellow Spotted at a Special Event!

Doctor Yellow — the train long said to “bring happiness to anyone who sees it.” Even after the end of its regular service, its popularity shows no signs of fading. If anything, the excitement around it is growing stronger than ever.

This time, we were incredibly lucky to encounter a special Doctor Yellow boarding event, and managed to photograph the iconic yellow train from a parking lot right near Shin-Osaka Station!

Watching that vivid yellow body streak past — no matter how many times you see it, the excitement never gets old.

Known as the “lucky yellow Shinkansen,” Doctor Yellow is said to bring happiness to anyone lucky enough to spot it. We were wondering if the legend was really true — and then, there it was, right in front of us. Our mascots were speechless for a moment, completely mesmerized. They nearly forgot to press the shutter button. The presence of that brilliant yellow body was simply overwhelming, so different from the Shinkansen trains we see every day. It was one of those moments where you think to yourself, “Just seeing this made the whole trip worthwhile.”

Doctor Yellow is a special inspection vehicle used to check the tracks and electrical systems of the Shinkansen network. It retired from regular scheduled service in 2024, but remains a legendary train deeply loved by railway fans for its reputation of bringing good fortune to those who spot it.

Photography Spot | Parking Lot Near Shin-Osaka Station

Our shooting location this time was a parking lot just outside Shin-Osaka Station.

Events like this can create unexpected photography opportunities in surprising places. Doctor Yellow’s operation schedule is often shared through social media and railway fan communities, so keeping a close eye on those is highly recommended if you want to catch a glimpse!

Big News — Doctor Yellow Is Coming to the Linear Railway Museum!

And now for some exciting news!

It has been officially announced that Doctor Yellow will be put on permanent display at the Linear Railway Museum (リニア・鉄道館) in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture. Now that it has retired from active service, this will be a truly precious opportunity to see the real thing up close and in person.

The Linear Railway Museum is a railway museum operated by JR Central. It features real vehicles including the superconducting maglev and generations of Shinkansen trains. With the addition of Doctor Yellow, it is set to become an even more unmissable destination for railway enthusiasts.

Who Should Visit the Linear Railway Museum?

• Anyone who wants to see Doctor Yellow in person
• Families looking to enjoy trains together with children
• Those interested in the history of the Shinkansen and maglev technology
• Visitors planning a trip to Nagoya

Crowds are expected once the Doctor Yellow exhibit opens. We recommend planning your Nagoya trip early!

Don’t Miss the Doctor Yellow Merchandise!

Even after retiring from regular service, demand for Doctor Yellow goods continues to rise. If you’d like to keep a piece of the legend as a souvenir or keepsake, check out the selection below!

Summary | Doctor Yellow Can Be Seen at the Linear Railway Museum!

Regular service may have ended, but the day when you can see Doctor Yellow’s magnificent form up close at the Linear Railway Museum is drawing near. Start planning your Nagoya trip today!

March–April: Peak Season for Shinkansen Business Travel

Due to the nature of my work, business trips increase between March and April, which means more opportunities to ride the Tokaido Shinkansen N700S. Car 7 is my go-to choice for business travel — but during this season, there’s a hidden bonus even for railway enthusiasts!

Want to See Mount Fuji? Go for Seat “E”!

Seat selection is everything when it comes to spotting Mount Fuji from the Shinkansen.

If you’re traveling from Tokyo, book a window seat on the left side of the train — Seat “E”. As the train passes through Shizuoka Prefecture, you may be treated to a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji right outside your window.

Best spot to see Mount Fuji: The stretch between Shin-Fuji Station and Shizuoka Station offers the best views. Winter through early spring, when the air is clear, gives you the best chance of a stunning, unobstructed view.

A Special Announcement Interrupted My Work!

During one recent business trip, I was heads-down working when suddenly an announcement came over the speakers:

“Mount Fuji can be seen beautifully on the left side of the train.”

I immediately grabbed my camera and snapped a shot — totally worth the interruption! (laughs)

This announcement only plays when conditions are just right, so the moment you hear it, don’t hesitate — point your camera to the left!

Seated in Seat E, it was finally time for our mascots to meet Mount Fuji. They pressed their faces against the window, gazing intently — and then came the comment: “That mountain is wearing a hat!” They had mistaken the snow on the summit for a hat. For our mascots, who aren’t used to seeing snow, it was a perfectly natural conclusion. And honestly, once they said it, you can’t unsee it — Mount Fuji’s silhouette with its white snow cap does look rather like a mountain wearing a hat. Sometimes a fresh pair of eyes is all it takes to see something magical in the familiar.

Why Car 7 is Perfect for Business Travelers

Car 7 has a calm, professional atmosphere that’s popular among business travelers. With power outlets at every seat and extra-wide tray tables, it’s perfectly set up for getting work done on the go. Book Seat E and you’ll have the best of both worlds — a productive workspace and a front-row seat for Mount Fuji!

About the N700S: Debuting in 2020, the N700S is the latest Tokaido Shinkansen model. Every seat has a power outlet, Wi-Fi is available throughout, and the ride quality has been significantly improved — making even long business trips comfortable.

Quick Guide: Tips for Spotting Mount Fuji from the Shinkansen

Easy Seat Selection with Smart EX

The Smart EX app is the most convenient way to book seats on the Tokaido Shinkansen. You can easily select the E seat directly from your smartphone, and changes are allowed right up until just before departure — a huge plus for busy business travelers.

Key benefits of Smart EX:

• Free to register and use
• Choose your preferred seat (including the E seat) easily from the app
• Reservations, changes, and cancellations accepted up to 6 minutes before departure
• Compatible with Mobile Suica for a seamless boarding experience

If you want to make sure you catch Mt. Fuji, book your E seat the day before your trip to be safe.

Beyond Mt. Fuji: Other Scenic Highlights from the Tokaido Shinkansen

Mt. Fuji isn’t the only thing worth looking out for on the Tokaido Shinkansen. There are plenty of other scenic spots to enjoy along the way.

Lake Hamana (Shizuoka Prefecture)
As the train crosses the bridge over Lake Hamana, you’re treated to a beautiful view of its blue waters contrasting with the bridge. Especially stunning on a clear day.

Nagoya Castle (Aichi Prefecture)
Near Nagoya Station, on a good day you may be able to spot the main tower of Nagoya Castle from the window — a fun little discovery during the journey.

Rokko Mountains (Hyogo Prefecture)
As you approach Shin-Osaka, the ridgeline of the Rokko Mountains comes into view, signaling your arrival in the Kansai region.

The Tokaido Shinkansen isn’t just a way to get from A to B — it’s a journey in itself. Next time you’re on a business trip, take a moment to look out the window. You might be surprised by what you find.

N700S Basic Information

Summary | Don’t Forget to Enjoy the Journey, Even on a Business Trip!

Simply booking Seat E could reward you with a stunning view of Mount Fuji — even on a busy work trip. Keep this in mind for your next Shinkansen reservation!