From creating two back-to-back virtual fairs online during the COVID-19 pandemic, to a one-of-a-kind hybrid event last year, The Japan Rail Fair is now returning with a full showcase onsite at Urban Park, Guoco Tower this year, between 13 to 15 October!

Last year marked the astounding 150th year anniversary of Tetsudo no Hi (鉄道の日 Railway Day), a unique annual celebration wherein Japan commemorates the opening of its railway system dating all the way back to 1872, specifically on 14 October. And this year, it is only about to get more remarkable as JAPAN RAIL CAFE brings Japan to the heart of Singapore’s CBD with various programmes lined up for many to enjoy (especially for enthusiastic Japan travellers like yourself who are reading this right now!).

Keep an eye out for uniquely-Japanese activities such as The Art of Japanese Tea if you want to experience a true and authentic tea-making experience; a rare opportunity to don a Japan Airlines uniform and snap a shot during a Photo-Taking Session with JAL Flight Attendants; and of course one that you shouldn’t miss is our very own rail-themed stage, Train Simulator Experience by JR East Business Development SEA where you get to watch a live demonstration of JR EAST Train Simulator– a professional simulator used by JR East train drivers for training in Japan!

All this and much more in store for all of our visitors, including a Stamp Rally Lucky Draw, where you can participate and stand a chance to win a pair of economy class tickets to Tokyo via JAL, a one-night stay at Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro with breakfast included, as well as a pair of JR East Passes (Tohoku area and Nagano, Niigata area each) at the end of each day!

PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS

Full events lineup available here.

Train Simulator Experience by JR East SEABD

13 October, Friday, 6pm

14 October, Saturday, 5pm

The Train Simulator Experience by JR East SEABD is a thrilling opportunity to witness the role of a train driver, and how they operate and drive trains from station to station along Japan's scenic routes. It's a must-see performance for railway enthusiasts and curious visitors alike, offering a unique glimpse into Japan's rich railway heritage.

Taiko Drum Performance by HIBIKIYA

15 October, Sunday, 4:30pm

Prepare to be mesmerised as HIBIKIYA takes the stage to deliver an electrifying TAIKO Japanese Drums performance. Their rhythmic beats and dynamic energy promise to captivate and transport the audience into the heart of Japanese culture, making it a performance not to be missed. Get ready to be immersed in the powerful world of Taiko drumming!

Suzume Odori by Sendai Suzume Odori Singapore

15 October, Sunday, 2pm

The name "Suzume Odori" comes from the resemblance of the lively tempo, dynamic hand gestures, and leaping dance to the figure of a sparrow, and this traditional Japanese dance has been popular for a long time. It is performed by more than 5,000 people at the Sendai Festival held every May, and has expanded its activities not only in Sendai but also throughout Japan and abroad.

Sacred Guardian Singa Tokusatsu Show

14 October, Saturday, 1pm & 3pm

Sacred Guardian Singa is a Tokusatsu superhero character rooted in the real culture, history and heritage of Singapore and Southeast Asia, created by tokuAsia Pte. Ltd.

Cheer Dance Performances by Albirex Singapore Cheer Dance School

15 October, Sunday, 1pm & 3pm

The Albirex Niigata Cheer Dance School is the official cheer dance team of Albirex Niigata Singapore. They will be at The Japan Rail Fair to enhance the event along with children's performances!

Brass Band Performance by WENS

15 October, Sunday, 12pm

Wind Ensemble Nippon Singapore (WENS) is a vibrant amateur music band founded in July 2014. They enchant audiences with a diverse performance, skillfully crafted as a wind orchestra. While most of their dedicated members are Japanese residents of Singapore, WENS warmly embraces music enthusiasts and instrumentalists of all nationalities, particularly those with a penchant for Japanese language skills.

Let’s Make a Bowl of Tea

13 October, Friday, 3pm & 6pm

14 October, Saturday, 2pm & 5pm

Register here: https://tjrf2023-tea.peatix.com

This half an hour mini workshop will be held at the Travel Communicator Section of JAPAN RAIL CAFE, and is suitable for people who interested in trying to make a bowl of tea by yourself. You will observe a demonstration of Bonryaku Temae, a basic tea making procedure using a round tray. Slots are limited to five people per session, so sign up now via the peatix page link to avoid disappointment!

We invite you to explore the wonders of The Japan Rail Fair 2023 by checking out not only the programmes above but also visiting 23 of our engaging booths where we will be joined by the likes of Fujikyu Railway, Japan Fruits & Vegetables Export Promotion Council, Akita Inu Tourism, and many others! Celebrate Railway Day during this special weekend, and immerse yourself in a delightful array of Japanese prefectural delicacies, rich cultural and historical experiences, and captivating regional travel adventures.