JR News: “Thank You, FruiTea Fukushima!” Project to run until December 2023
Last year, JR East announced that it was time to bid adieu to everyone’s favourite cafe-themed sightseeing train: FruiTea Fukushima (フルーティアふくしま). After eight and a half years since its debut in April 2015 running along the Ban-etsu West Line, the popular Joyful Train will retire in December 2023.
Logo of “THANK YOU FRUITEA FUKUSHIMA”. (Image credit: JR East)
But it isn’t goodbye without a farewell (tea) party. Earlier this year, The "THANK YOU FRUITEA FUKUSHIMA" Last Run Project was implemented to introduce exclusive travel packages as well as limited-time merchandise onboard the FruiTea Fukushima before its retirement. A dedicated website was also launched in tandem with the project to provide more information on the various courses and plans leading to the end of FruiTea Fukushima’s operations.
With about 6 months left until the end of FruiTea Fukushima’s service, let’s see what’s in store this summer in this Last Run Project.
Final ride on the FruiTea Fukushima
Your last chance to ride the FruiTea Fukushima. (Image credit: JR East)
As the FruiTea Fukushima is finally making its final departure at the end of the year, fans of the train and railway enthusiasts alike are trying to have that one last ride on the train. There are still a couple of months left before it retires, so why not take the opportunity to ride the Joyful Train for one last time?
Many locals and even foreign visitors to Japan are vying for the seats on the train, so availability is limited for the remaining months. The FruiTea Fukushima is also sold as a travel package only, so seat reservations are required and you can do so one month in advance before departure.
Other travel packages are available throughout the campaign period. (Image credit: JR East)
In addition, other travel packages are also available, which include specially arranged meals and even accommodation arrangements. For more details on the various courses, visit JR East View Tourism and Sales website (Japanese only).
"THANK YOU FRUITEA FUKUSHIMA" Original goods
(Image credit: JR East)
Original goods that showcase the charms of FruiTea Fukushima can be found at NewDays and NewDays KIOSK stores in Fukushima Station, Kōriyama Station, and Aizu-Wakamatsu Station. The original merchandises include:
- Stationeries such as clear files (A4 size), ballpoint pens, rulers;
- Accessories such as acrylic key holders, clear card cases;
- Tablewares such as mugs and coasters;
- Snacks such as popcorn and confectionery (フールセック).
Additional products and stores will be announced on the dedicated homepage.
FruiTea Fukushima train papercraft created by JR employees
(Image credit: JR East)
A paper craft of the FruiTea Fukushima made by JR employees will be handed out by attendants at the cafe counter in Car 1. While stocks last.
If you want to know more about the popular Joyful Train and how to make reservations, read this article or visit FruiTea Fukushima’s official page. Bon voyage!
Header image credit: JR East
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