A central Japan local commuter train line is thought to have become the country’s first to be converted into a reservation-only tourist train along its entire route.
Despite backlash from the local community after prices were hiked significantly from a distance-based fare to a flat rate of 3,500 yen ($22), Oigawa Railway Co managed to change its Ikawa Line in Shizuoka Prefecture to a reservation-only system in July.
The 25.5-kilometre line, also known as the Minami-Alps Abt Line, runs through a mountainous area known for its scenery and uses Japan’s only Abt rackand-pinion locomotives designed to handle steep gradients.
With declining ridership in many areas struggling with depopulation, the initiative is drawing attention from railway companies nationwide.
Speaking at a press conference on 2 June, Oigawa Railway CEO Akira Torizuka said, “We want to move forward together with the local community.”
The town of Kawanehoncho, which lies along the train line, was only informed of the changes in April, leading to push-back from municipal council members and others who called the announcement “insufficiently explained and insincere.”
Kyodo
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