Experience the Wanwan Express with Your Dog
Sopra Ginza Co., Ltd., located in the heart of Tokyo, is thrilled to announce the launch of the second edition of its innovative project, the 'Wanwan Express.' This unique initiative allows pet owners to board the Shinkansen (bullet train) with their beloved dogs, providing an unrivaled travel experience. In addition to this opportunity, a special invitation is available for one select family to participate in pre-training sessions designed to enhance the experience for both pets and their owners.
Project Overview
The 'Wanwan Express' is more than just a travel program; it aims to create a harmonious society where pets and public transportation coexist seamlessly. As part of a social validation project, this initiative will evaluate behavior management of pets and the improvement of manners among owners during travel. With the support of Tokai Railway Company (JR Tokai), Sopra Ginza actively participates in this project, building on the success of last year’s initiative.
The program reinforces the belief that proper training and awareness are essential for creating a community where trained pets are the norm. Sopra Ginza embraces the responsibility of all pet owners in contributing to this vision, ultimately creating a society that welcomes pets, even in public spaces.
Role of Sopra Ginza in Ensuring Pet Behavior
Sopra Ginza plays a pivotal role in the 'Wanwan Express,' with specialized oversight and operational support in several key areas:
- - Designing training standards for pet behavior and management during the journey.
- - Creating operations that ensure safety when traveling with pets.
These elements are foundational data that will help establish new standards for pet coexistence on public transportation in the future. Each dog on board will even be allocated a designated seat, ensuring comfort and safety.
Educational Initiatives
Recognizing travel time as a valuable learning opportunity, the Wanwan Express program includes educational content led by certified dog trainers from Sopra Ginza. Courses will cover:
- - Proper etiquette in public spaces
- - Behavior management training
- - Practical crate training guidance
- - Techniques for owners to ensure their pets remain calm during travel
By addressing the educational aspects necessary for fostering a pet-friendly community, Sopra Ginza hopes to promote conscientiousness among pet owners.
Special Invitation for Select Participants
A noteworthy highlight of this project is the special invitation process for one lucky family, which will include:
- - Round-trip tickets for the Wanwan Express for two adults and one dog.
- - One-night stay at Moxy Osaka Honmachi, including breakfast for two.
- - Admission tickets to Interpet Osaka.
- - One-on-one special training sessions over four classes at Sopra Kindergarten.
- - A grooming session at Sopra.
To participate in this special invitation, applicants must agree to the project's philosophy, attend pre-training sessions, and share their experiences on social media platforms such as Instagram.
Key Dates for Application
- - Application Period: April 22, 2026 - April 30, 2026
- - Announcement of Winners: May 10, 2026
Last Year’s Success and Future Improvements
The inaugural Wanwan Express, launched in 2025 to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Tokaido Shinkansen, received tremendous positive feedback. The second edition not only focuses on the importance of pet carts but also aims to minimize travel-related stress for pets and ensure their safety.
The role of pet carts as essential infrastructure for comfortable and safe transportation is becoming increasingly recognized. Sopra Ginza promotes the concept of pet carts as more than mere mobility aids but as integral parts of a new standard for pet travel in public spaces.
Looking Ahead
Sopra Ginza is committed to fostering a comfortable environment for both pets and people, integrating real estate, transportation, accommodation, and commercial facilities into its vision. Collaborating with leading enterprises, such as Mitsubishi Estate, Sopra Ginza seeks to implement innovative urban development strategies that respect diverse preferences, including those who may be nervous around pets.
Through insights gathered from the Wanwan Express, Sopra Ginza aims to transition 'a society where pets can live' to 'a city where living with pets is fundamental to the urban experience.'
Event Details
- - Date: June 20 - June 21, 2026
- - Route: Tokyo to Shin-Osaka (Round-trip)
- - Train: Reserved Tokaido Shinkansen Nozomi
- - Event Features: Dog-friendly rides, onboard events, participation in Interpet Osaka.
- - Tickets: Available through JTB Entertainment.
About Sopra Ginza Co., Ltd.
Located in Ginza, Tokyo, Sopra Ginza specializes in pet salons, dog kindergartens, pet hotels, and educational programs, continuously striving for a pet-inclusive future.