Cute alert! Japan’s most popular mascot, Hello Kitty is getting her own bullet train. West Japan Railway Company is set to send their first Hello Kitty-themed shinkansen onto the tracks on June 30, operating between Shin-Osaka Station in Osaka and Hakata Station in Fukuoka.
This pink high-speed train is decorated with the cat-girl’s signature pink ribbons. Furthermore, you’ll also find Hello Kitty in a navy-coloured conductress uniform in the first and eighth carriage.
West Japan Railway Company, Sanrio Co., Ltd.
The first two cars are decked out in pink. The ‘Hello! Plaza’ area in the first car features a kawaii interior design; think polka dots, ribbons, and of course, Hello Kitty images. Shop for regional souvenirs, sit down in the rest area, or watch promotional videos about the different destinations serviced by the train, starting with Tottori and Shimane prefectures.
West Japan Railway Company, Sanrio Co., Ltd.
The second carriage is themed ‘Kawaii! Room’ and it is the train’s unreserved seating area. Expect comfortable seats with arm- and headrests embellished in cute Hello Kitty designs, decorated windows, and a pink floor with polka dots and ribbons. You’d be glad to know that this car also features a special Hello Kitty photo spot for you to capture all your Instagram shots.
West Japan Railway Company, Sanrio Co., Ltd.
When you’ve reached the final destination at Hakata Station, don’t forget to drop by the limited-time ‘Hello Kitty Shinkansen Café’ and the souvenir shop which sells exclusive Hello Kitty Shinkansen merchandise. The café will be open from June 1 and the shop from June 30.
Since this special Hello Kitty high-speed train only operates for a limited time, check the schedule here. For more information, visit the official website.