Yoroku: Revival of Japan's romantic night trains needs to stay on track

Night trains once played a significant role in Japanese daily life, carrying business travelers, sightseers, hopeful passengers, and those returning from unsuccessful endeavors. Songs about night trains, featuring various intersections of life, resonated deeply with listeners. Numerous trains departed from major terminals across the country, but they gradually faded away due to the rise of shinkansen bullet trains, air travel, and affordable overnight buses.

Currently, the only regularly operating service is the limited express Sunrise Seto-Izumo, connecting Tokyo with Shikoku and Sanin regions. However, recent developments suggest a potential revival of Japan's romantic night trains. A one-night-only overnight shinkansen ran between Tokyo and Shin-Osaka on August 8-9, stopping at Gifu-Hashima during the night. Additionally, the Moonlight Nagara, a Tokyo-Ogaki train, made a one-night comeback this month, with its route shortened.

East Japan Railway Co. (JR East) plans to launch an overnight limited express service next spring, operating twice weekly between Shinagawa in Tokyo and Aomori, featuring private-compartment-style seating. These projects primarily target tourists and railway enthusiasts. Yet, the surrounding environment for night trains is evolving.

Accommodation costs are rising, and overnight bus operators face a severe driver shortage. From a decarbonization standpoint, trains' ability to transport large numbers of people is being reconsidered.

Coordinating trains across various JR companies and third-sector railway operators poses logistical challenges, as does securing trains and personnel, which come with associated costs. Despite these obstacles, the unique romance of traveling on a night train remains unparalleled. This special experience should not fade into a fleeting trend.