Discover 'Furetemina': A Unique Summer Adventure for Families
As summer approaches, families are looking for exciting ways to bond and create cherished memories together. The 'Furetemina' series of experience-based learning tours, part of the JR East Group's 'HAPPY CHILD PROJECT', offers just that. This initiative aims to support child-rearing by providing engaging travel experiences focused on the joys of train journeys and real-life adventures in nature and culture.
Exclusive Summer Tour Offerings
The 'Furetemina' tours allow children to immerse themselves in authentic nature experiences that foster their growth while facilitating memorable family moments. From hands-on harvesting to unique encounters with history and culture, this summer's curated offerings promise an exciting venture for families.
1. Corn Harvesting Experience in Gunma
Kick off your summer journey with a delicious twist! Departing from Takasaki Station, this bus tour leads you to the popular Michi no Eki (roadside station) 'Agurimu Showa'. Here, families can enjoy a corn harvesting experience that kids love—collect fresh corn and shop for locally grown vegetables!
A delightful lunch awaits at the Okutone Winery restaurant, featuring a mouthwatering hamburger steak and the local specialty 'Takayama Gratin', made with fresh milk from Showa Village. A relaxed afternoon follows with free shopping and strolling at the Kawaba Denen Plaza before heading back to Takasaki Station.
Tour Details:
- - Date: July 25, 2026 (Day Trip)
- - Departure/Return: Takasaki Station
- - Cost: ¥17,800 (¥16,800 for elementary students)
- - Capacity: 20 participants (minimum 16)
2. Historic Walk Through Usui Pass
Adventure awaits with a guided 'Usui Pass Abandoned Line Walk'! This area, once part of the notorious railway line between Yokokawa and Karuizawa, features remnants like bridges and tunnels preserved since its closure in 1997. Accompanying expert guides, families can walk the tracks, explore tunnels, and even enjoy lunch right on the railways.
Discover the 'Usui Pass Railway Museum', which houses over 30 rare train models.
Tour Details:
- - Date: August 8, 2026 (Day Trip)
- - Departure/Return: Tokyo Station
- - Cost: ¥30,000 (¥20,000 for elementary students)
- - Capacity: 40 participants (minimum 25)
3. Experience Being a Train Driver!
Dream of operating a real train? This two-day adventure includes visiting Japan's largest dinosaur museum and an exhilarating train operation experience with the Echizen Railway. Discover dinosaur fossils at Katuama Dinosaur Forest and learn about train operations firsthand!
Tour Details:
- - Dates: August 22, 2026 and September 19, 2026 (1 night, 2 days)
- - Departure/Return: Tokyo Station
- - Cost: ¥68,000 to ¥72,000 (¥56,000 to ¥58,000 for elementary students)
- - Capacity: 40 participants (minimum 15)
4. Breathtaking Views on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
For families seeking stunning sights, the cool summer climate of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is ideal! Traverse by cable car and ropeway as you explore the scenic beauty of the region, engaging in exhilarating activities such as guided mountain walks and dam tours.
Tour Details:
- - Date: August 1, 2026 (1 night, 2 days)
- - Departure/Return: Tokyo Station
- - Cost: ¥97,800 (¥81,800 for children)
- - Capacity: 30 participants (minimum 15)
5. Children’s Boat Captain Experience
Uncover your adventurous spirit with a boat ride on Lake Okutadami! Kids can experience being a captain, while adults learn about hydropower at the powerful Okutadami Dam.
Tour Details:
- - Dates: July 19, 2026, August 22, 2026, and August 29, 2026 (1 night, 2 days)
- - Departure/Return: Tokyo Station
- - Cost: ¥43,800 to ¥47,800 (¥33,800 to ¥37,800 for children)
- - Capacity: 30 participants (minimum 15)
6. Scenic Rail Adventure on Resort Shirakami
Enjoy a two-day trip on the popular sightseeing train 'Resort Shirakami'. Explore Akita's local culture with a hands-on experience of the Akita Kanto festival!
Tour Details:
- - Dates: August 8, 2026 and August 22, 2026 (1 night, 2 days)
- - Departure/Return: Tokyo Station
- - Cost: ¥59,800 (¥44,800 for children)
- - Capacity: 30 participants (minimum 15)
How to Register
The tours are set to launch on May 21, 2026, at 14:00 via JR East's reservation website. Be sure to stay updated, as more exciting offerings will be released soon!
For more information on the 'HAPPY CHILD PROJECT' and its initiatives, visit
HAPPY CHILD Project. Join us for an unforgettable adventure!