Introducing the One Piece-Themed Shinkansen: A Unique Travel Experience in Japan
West Japan Railway introduced a One Piece-themed Shinkansen on April 12, 2025, called Setouchi Blue. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Sanyo line, it features characters from the anime. Two additional trains are set to launch in 2025, offering immersive themes and decor. Rides are included with the JR Pass, enhancing travel across major cities in western Japan.
On April 12, 2025, West Japan Railway launched a One Piece-themed Shinkansen named Setouchi Blue, celebrating the Sanyo Shinkansen line’s 50th anniversary. The train showcases a striking blue exterior and features beloved characters from the anime, including Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the experience of traveling along the line that connects Hakata and Shin-Osaka stations.
The One Piece Shinkansen series will consist of three trains. The first debuted in April 2025, with a second train named Tony Tony Chopper set to launch on May 28, 2025, featuring a playful color scheme of white, pink, and blue, reflecting the character’s love for candy. A third train dedicated to Monkey D. Luffy will follow, debuting on July 2, 2025, with a color palette of white, gold, and red inspired by Luffy’s straw hat.
Comprising immersive pirate-themed decor and seating, the One Piece Shinkansen will run along the Sanyo Shinkansen line by the Setouchi Sea. This route connects key cities in western Japan, including Osaka, Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Kobe, Himeji, and Okayama. The trains operate on Kodama services, stopping at all stations along the way, providing a unique travel experience along this picturesque coastline.
Rides on the One Piece Shinkansen are included with the JR Pass, although an additional fee applies for Mizuho or Nozomi services. Alternative travel options such as the Kansai Wide Area Pass and Sanyo-San’in Area Pass also apply. For more details, travelers are encouraged to visit the official website.
This One Piece-themed Shinkansen project not only enhances the travel experience but also offers fans of the anime a unique opportunity to engage with their favorite characters in a new setting, transforming train travel into an entertaining journey.
The launch of the One Piece-themed Shinkansen marks a significant milestone in Japan’s train travel experience, integrating beloved anime culture with transportation. With three trains planned, passengers can look forward to unique decor and thematic journeys along the Sanyo Shinkansen line. Travelers can utilize existing JR Passes for easy access, showcasing the seamless blend of entertainment and travel in Japan.
Original Source: www.travelandleisureasia.com
