Explore the beauty of Nara and its surroundings with a cute Narashika Train!
Sep 19, 2024
Explore the beauty of Nara and its surroundings with a cute Narashika Train!
Japan’s railway systems are world-renowned for their efficiency, design, and thematic trains that bring joy to passengers. One such notable addition to the collection is the “Narashika Train,” a beautifully decorated train by Kintetsu Railway. It has recently gained significant attention for its tribute to the iconic Nara deer. This themed train is a visual treat and a promotional effort to celebrate Nara’s rich cultural heritage and wildlife, making it a unique experience for locals and tourists.
About Kintetsu Railway
Kintetsu Railway, also known as the Kinki Nippon Railway, is one of Japan’s major private railway companies. It operates a wide network of lines that connect major cities in the Kansai region, including Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Nagoya. Known for its high-quality services, Kintetsu offers regular commuter trains and luxurious limited express trains that cater to tourists travelling to scenic and historical destinations.
Kintetsu Railway is also famous for introducing innovative and themed trains, often highlighting the unique features of their regions. The railway’s commitment to enhancing passenger travel experiences through cultural and creative initiatives has made it a popular choice, especially for tourists exploring Japan’s historical and scenic locations.
Narashika Train: explore Nara and nearby prefecture with a cuteness overload
The Narashika Train, unveiled in December 2022, is a special train that runs primarily between Kobe-Sannomiya Station, Osaka-Namba Station, and Kintetsu-Nara Station. The train features a beautiful design both inside and out, with a clear focus on Nara’s most famous residents: the sacred deer of Nara Park. The word “Narashika” combines “Nara” and “shika” (the Japanese word for deer), perfectly representing the concept of this charming train.
The exterior of the Narashika Train is adorned with illustrations of deer and the natural beauty of Nara. At the same time, the interior is just as delightful, incorporating various motifs that reflect the region’s heritage. The seats, for instance, are designed with patterns that mimic the spots on a fawn, and the handrails are shaped like deer antlers. The floor Zr features an image of Mount Wakakusa, a famous landmark in Nara, further enhancing the immersive experience for passengers.
Why they invented Narashika Train
The Narashika Train was created to promote Nara as a travel destination, particularly for international tourists arriving from Osaka. The concept behind the train was to make the journey itself an experience, allowing passengers to feel connected to Nara’s history, culture, and wildlife before arriving.
Most wrapping trains focus solely on their exterior designs, but the “Narashika Train” offers a unique experience with its creatively themed interior. For example, the seats are inspired by the spots of a fawn, the hand straps with cute deer, and the floors evoke the lush greenery of Wakakusa Mountain. Every detail is carefully crafted to allow passengers to feel the essence of Nara while riding the Kintetsu line.
design of hand straps
Construction scene
According to an interview with the designers, the train was specifically intended to give travellers a sense of Nara’s identity, even if they were unfamiliar with the area. The interior design offers a warm, welcoming feeling by showcasing Nara’s four seasons and wildlife, making it appealing to domestic and international passengers. Moreover, the train was part of a broader effort by Kintetsu Railway to enhance the overall tourist experience, encouraging visitors to explore the many attractions of Nara beyond its historical temples.
Routes to take if you want to get on the Narashika Train
The Narashika Train primarily operates between Kobe-Sannomiya Station, Osaka-Namba Station, and Kintetsu-Nara Station, one of the most popular routes for both commuters and tourists. This route is especially significant because it connects Osaka and Nara, two culturally rich cities that draw thousands of visitors every year.
The train’s final stop, Kintetsu-Nara Station, is located near some of Nara’s most iconic landmarks, including Nara Park, where visitors can interact with the friendly, free-roaming deer. This station is also a gateway to historical treasures like Todai-ji Temple, which houses the Great Buddha, and Kasuga Taisha, a Shinto shrine with centuries-old stone lanterns.
While the Narashika Train was primarily designed as a commuter train, its visual appeal and thematic design have made it a must-ride experience for tourists. The 35-minute journey from Osaka to Nara becomes a magical experience with the Narashika Train, turning a regular commute into an opportunity to connect with nature and Nara’s historical charm.
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The Narashika Train by Kintetsu Railway is much more than a simple mode of transportation; it’s an immersive cultural experience that showcases the beauty and heritage of Nara through creative design. By combining the charm of Nara’s famous deer with the convenience of modern rail travel, Kintetsu has successfully created a unique attraction that enhances the journey for both daily commuters and tourists.
Whether you’re a resident or an international traveller, the Narashika Train offers a one-of-a-kind travel experience, introducing passengers to the wonders of Nara before they even step off the train. With its thoughtfully designed interior, visually stunning exterior, and efficient route, the Narashika Train is a beautiful example of how Japan continues to innovate and delight in the world of railway travel.
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