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Shinkansen is one of the most convenient and comfortable ways to travel across Japan – and it’s even more memorable when you catch one of its special themed trains. Among the most popular is the Hello Kitty Shinkansen, which runs along the Sanyo Shinkansen line connecting Shin-Osaka and Hakata in Fukuoka, Kyushu. The route serves western Japan’s major destinations including Shin-Kobe, Himeji, Okayama and Hiroshima.
Launched in June 2018, this charming bullet train is beloved for its cute design bursting with colours, motifs and characters inspired by the global Japanese icon. Its eye-catching pink exterior features Hello Kitty’s signature bow and ribbon, and the interior is even more adorable.
Car 1 serves as a display area and gift shop offering exclusive Hello Kitty merchandise, while Car 2, the ‘Kawaii! Room’, is fully decked out in Hello Kitty designs, from the walls and ceiling to the seats. There’s even a dedicated photo spot where you can take pictures with a one-of-a-kind Hello Kitty train conductor.
Sadly, after eight years of service, the Hello Kitty Shinkansen will cease operations on Sunday May 17 2026. To celebrate its farewell, train operator JR West has rolled out a campaign to mark this momentous event.
For the final send-off, Car 1 has been renamed from ‘Hello! Plaza’ to 'Thanks! Plaza'. It now features a finale artwork created specifically for the occasion. Additionally, from now until its last service on May 17, you can even purchase exclusive commemorative merchandise with the theme 'Thank You ♡ Hello Kitty Shinkansen' (while stocks last, of course).
These limited-edition items will also be available at the Kyoto Railway Museum, selected JR West station shops, and online.
For more information, check the Hello Kitty Shinkansen website.
Meanwhile, the Hello Kitty-themed trains on the Kansai Airport Express Haruka line will also be phased out around summer 2027.
So if you’ve always dreamed of riding Japan’s cutest bullet train, there's no time to waste. Hop aboard before Hello Kitty steps off the Sanyo Shinkansen for good.
This article was originally published on November 3 2025 and updated on May 14 2026.
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