You can soak in an onsen while riding the Shinkansen! Yamagata Shinkansen’s “Foot Onsen Train” launches in July

▲Yamagata Prefecture is the only tourist destination in Japan where hot springs gush forth across its entire territory. Its fame has been further boosted by films such as “Departures” and “Oshin.” To attract more visitors to the region, the Yamagata Shinkansen will become the “foot onsen train,” beginning service this summer. The photo shows the Yunoshima Onsen. (Photo/Wikipedia)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Japanese people love soaking in hot springs—not just at home, but now even on the Shinkansen too. East Japan Railway Company recently announced that the Yamagata Shinkansen, which runs between Fukushima and Yamagata, will be transformed into a “foot onsen train.” Starting this summer in July 2014, it will operate as a temporary weekend service between Fukushima and Shinjō.

To attract more tourists and encourage more travelers to visit Yamagata Prefecture, JR East has completely redesigned the E3 series Shinkansen both inside and out, turning it into the “Toreiyu” train equipped with foot onsen facilities. The name “Toreiyu” combines the English word “Train” and the French word “Soleil” (meaning sun), showcasing Yamagata’s cuisine, nature, hot springs, history, and culture. The train has a total of 143 seats.

The train features windows that open wide (as shown in the right image) and also includes a tatami-mat-lined reserved seating carriage (as shown in the left image). (Photos / All screenshots from the JR East official website)

The foot onsen is located in Car 16 of the train, featuring two footbath tubs and a thoughtfully provided changing room. Passengers can enjoy the soothing experience of soaking their feet while taking in the scenic views outside the window, allowing the hot spring water to revitalize their feet during the short ride and prepare them for the next leg of their journey.

In addition, the seating on the foot onsen train is uniquely designed. In addition to regular seat-type accommodations, Cars 12 through 14 feature tatami-mat “reserved seating” with a traditional Japanese atmosphere. The ceilings and backrests of the tatami seats are expected to be decorated with fruits native to Yamagata. Car 15 serves as a lounge area, furnished with wooden tables and tatami mats, along with a bar counter offering drinks. After soaking your feet, relax here for a while, admire the exhibited local specialties of Yamagata, and enjoy the experience as if you were in a hot spring resort—truly a delightful retreat.