Retired Akebono Train Revives Lodging Servicesat Kosaka Railroad Railpark in Japan

The Kosaka Railroad Railpark in Akita Prefecture, Japan, is set to restart its unique lodging services aboard the retired Akebono blue train on Saturday following a five-year suspension sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic. The railway-themed park successfully raised ¥6 million throughcrowdfundingto repair the sleeping cars and restore this one-of-a-kind experience for guests.

Why this matters: The revival of the Akebono lodging service highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage and historical landmarks, which can have a positive impact on local economies and community engagement. Moreover, this initiative showcases the power of community-driven efforts in revitalizing abandoned infrastructure, serving as a model for similar projects worldwide.

The Akebono, a limited express train that began service in 1970, connected Aomori Station in Aomori Prefecture to Ueno Station in Tokyo, traversing through Akita and other prefectures during its approximately 12.5-hour trip. The train served as a vital link for residents of Kosaka and nearby towns traveling to and from the capital until its regular operations ceased in 2014.

Following the train's retirement, the municipal government of Kosaka requested the transfer of the decommissioned Akebono from East Japan Railway Co. (JR East) to create a unique accommodation facility. The Kosaka Railroad Railpark opened its doors in 2016, offering guests the opportunity to stay in the repurposed Akebono cars, complete with the original bedding, curtains, and furnishings that once served passengers during its operational days.

Jiro Suzuki, the 60-year-old manager of the facility, expressed his enthusiasm for the Akebono's revival, stating, "The Akebono carries abundant memories and sentiments of numerous passengers. I desire for guests to experience the atmosphere of the sleeping cars, which cannot be replicated in today's railway cars."

Before the park's temporary closure in 2020 as a result of the pandemic, the Akebono lodging service attracted approximately 2,000 guests annually. The reopening has been highly anticipated, with reservations nearly fully booked for the upcoming summer holiday period since they began on April 20,2023.

The successful crowdfunding campaign, which raised ¥6 million for necessary repairs, showcased the strong local support for preserving this piece of railway history. Suzuki noted, "We felt that there were many people who supported us," highlighting the community's dedication to keeping the Akebono's legacy alive.

The revival of the Akebono lodging service at the Kosaka Railroad Railpark not only offers a unique experience for visitors but also serves as a tribute to the enduring spirit of Japan's railway heritage. The park prepares to welcome guests once again, marking a new chapter in the Akebono's storied history, allowing future generations to immerse themselves in the nostalgia and charm of this beloved train.

Key Takeaways

• Kosaka Railroad Railpark in Japan reopens its unique lodging service aboard the retired Akebono blue train.
• The service was suspended for 5 years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• A ¥6 million crowdfunding campaign repaired the sleeping cars and restored the experience.
• The Akebono train connected Aomori to Tokyo from 1970 to 2014, serving as a vital link for residents.
• The reopening has been highly anticipated, with reservations nearly fully booked for the summer holiday period.