Sponsored by Tobu Railways
Train geeks in particular will be ecstatic to hear that Tobu Railways has launched an all-new train series. The Revaty 500 is a flashy designer version of the company's previous models, and will be running between Asakusa and Nikko, as well as on the Asakusa-Kinugawa-Aizu track. But even the average passenger might take interest in the many little details and posh extras that this new train boasts.
One of the first things you notice on the train is how massive its windows are. These give the entire interior – designed by Ken Okuyama, famed for his work with Ferrari Japan – a light and airy feel. Do also take note of the ceiling, which is shaped like the waves of the rivers it crosses, while the seats are embossed with the Edo komon, a traditional motif from the Edo period.
The train's main technological perk is that it can connect two separate batches of cars with an accordion-like mechanism. Unlike the shinkansen, in which two connected bits of train means you have to exit and then enter again on the other side of the joint, the Revaty lets you walk straight through. We're never fans of passing through that noisy bit, but hey, it is quite handy.
More importantly, for those needing to work, Facebook or Instagram on the go, there's free NTT wi-fi inside all carriages, accessible by registering your email address. Each seat also has an electric outlet, which means no more dying batteries (unless you were the one who forgot your charger).
If you're heading out to Nikko, Kinugawa or Aizu anytime soon, be sure to take an extra good look at your train – it just might be this flashy speedster.
