#Japan #Renewable Energy #Tokyo #J-POWER #Infrastructure Tourism

Experience the Power of Infrastructure Tourism

Unveiling a Unique Travel Opportunity

In an exciting collaboration between JR East View Tourism & Sales, based in Sumida, Tokyo, and J-POWER, headquartered in Chuo, Tokyo, a remarkable travel experience known as “Infrastructure Tourism” is set to begin on October 25, 2025. This tour offers participants the chance to visit water power (Tagokura Dam and Tagokura Power Plant) or geothermal power facilities (Oniishiyama Geothermal Power Plant) that are typically closed to the public. Visitors will benefit from guided tours led by J-POWER staff, gaining firsthand insights about these vital energy sources.

Tagokura Power Plant Tour

Overview

• - Tour Name: Enjoy the Colors of Autumn! Ride the Popular "SL Banetsu Story" Train and Visit the Hidden Tagokura Dam
• - Departure Date: October 25, 2025
• - Travel Cost: 47,000 yen for adults, 35,000 yen for children (based on double occupancy)
• - Participants: 40 people (minimum required: 20)

Highlights

During the tour, guests will behold the vibrant autumn foliage of Oku-Aizu and Tadami through the scenic windows of the SL Banetsu Story train, which runs from Niigata to Kitakata, and the serene Tadami Line between Aizukawaguchi and Tadami stations. The breathtaking viewpoint of the First Tadami River Bridge, surrounded by autumn colors, promises a picturesque experience.

At the Tadami Exhibition Hall, guests can learn about the mechanics of hydropower while taking in views of the dam itself against a backdrop of autumn leaves. One of the rare highlights includes an interior visit to the normally restricted Tagokura Dam. After the day’s activities, participants will relax at the hot spring hotel “Kinosato Yurasato”, nestled in nature.

Every participant will receive exclusive J-POWER memorabilia as part of their travel package.

Oniishiyama Geothermal Power Plant Tour

Overview

• - Tour Name: Special Visit to J-POWER Oniishiyama Geothermal Power Plant and Enjoying the Autumn Foliage of Naruko
• - Departure Date: October 25, 2025
• - Travel Cost: 65,000 yen for adults, 60,000 yen for children (based on double occupancy)
• - Participants: 20 people (minimum required: 18)

Highlights

Guests will explore the normally off-limits Oniishiyama Geothermal Power Plant, guided by J-POWER staff. They will tour the power facilities, including the colorful steam turbines and extraction wells that pull steam from 1,500 meters underground, and learn how geothermal energy is harnessed from the Earth.

Explorations will also include the stunning Naruko region, famous for its V-shaped canyon, created through river erosion, which features breathtaking 100-meter-high cliffs spreading over 2.5 kilometers. The combination of evergreens and vibrant autumn leaves from beech, oak, and maple trees makes this area a premier leaf-peeping destination, especially during its peak in mid-October to early November.

Participants will unwind at the Naruko Kanko Hotel, a renowned hot spring resort known for its beauty-enhancing waters. The hotel's natural springs, rich in minerals, change color daily, providing a unique bathing experience.

Established in 1975, J-POWER’s Oniishiyama Geothermal Power Plant has recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, having been modernized to produce an output of 14,900 kW, contributing to Japan’s renewable energy portfolio.

These tours represent an exciting opportunity for individuals to learn about Japan's energy landscape while experiencing the breathtaking autumn foliage of rural Japan.

Join the Excitement

These unique travel packages will be available exclusively through the “Japan Travel, Rail Travel” website. Don’t miss the chance to explore Japan's hidden energy gems this coming October!

Please note images are for illustration purposes only, and schedules may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances.