#Japan #Tokyo #CoCo Gourmet #Miao Gourmet #Wandafull TRAIN

Discovering the Magic of Pet-Friendly Travel

In a bid to cater to the growing trend of pet tourism, JR East implemented an exciting initiative called the 'Wandafull TRAIN.' This tour, held from April 12 to 13, offered dog lovers a unique travel experience where their pets could travel alongside them without being confined to cages.

The Wandafull TRAIN quickly garnered attention, with seats selling out within two weeks. Due to overwhelming demand, the company added more spaces to accommodate an additional 82 participants and their furry friends, showcasing the event's popularity. This pet-friendly tour, which included a scenic trip from Ueno Station to Karuizawa, proved that people are increasingly eager to travel with their dogs.

The Rise of Pet Tourism

Research conducted by the company last October revealed that a staggering 96.3% of dog owners expressed a desire to travel with their pets. Particularly in the wake of the pandemic, 38% reported that their opportunities to travel with their dogs had increased. Furthermore, the percentage of owners spending over 10,000 yen on travel for their dogs rose from 39% in 2022 to 51% in 2024. Owners cite reasons for wanting to travel with their pets, such as considering them family members and wanting to create shared memories. The upcoming Golden Week and summer holidays are expected to see an even stronger boom in pet tourism.

A Culinary Delight for Dogs

As part of the Wandafull TRAIN experience, participants enjoyed a specially prepared dog meal, the 'CoCo Gourmet Shumai Bento.' This unique menu was crafted to ensure deliciousness and safety, taking special care to create a gluten-free recipe that's nutritionally balanced. Shumai-style meal boxes were designed to be visually appealing, resembling human bento, to enhance the travel experience.

The primary ingredients included popular dog-friendly options, like chicken and broccoli, ensuring that each meal was not only enjoyable but also packed with nutrition. Participants fondly reminisced about their gastronomic delights as the train journey unfolded, creating a lasting memory of their adventure.

A Memorable Itinerary for All

The carefully crafted itinerary allowed for complete cage-free enjoyment throughout the trip. Participants started from Ueno Station, traversed through stunning landscapes, and explored popular destinations like Karuizawa and Kumano Kodo Shrine—all without confinement. Travel logistics were expertly managed to ensure a seamless experience for both the dogs and their owners.

In preparation for the trip, strict hygiene and etiquette measures were enforced. Dogs were required to wear special clothing while on board, and owners were encouraged to groom their pets beforehand. A custom 'Pet Travel Guide' was provided to enhance awareness of pet etiquette, promoting responsible travel behavior.

Thriving Customer Response

Participant feedback was overwhelmingly enthusiastic. One family expressed their happiness about witnessing their dog enjoying the freedom of traveling without a cage, while another praised the effort and friendliness of the staff.

The emotional value of these excursions greatly resonates with pet owners who cherish the opportunity to bond and create lasting memories with their furry companions.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Pet-Friendly Travel

This innovative venture is driven by the desire to reconnect with customers and encourage travel while considering their pets. JR East officials noted the importance of expanding pet-friendly travel to cater to families seeking stress-free experiences.

With plans for future tours and increasing demands, the company aims to explore new destinations and create more pet-friendly travel options. The ongoing success of the Wandafull TRAIN could inspire other companies to consider how they can include pets in their travel experiences, bridging the gap between pet ownership and adventure.

With a focus on quality, safety, and memorable experiences, pet tourism could see a dramatic increase in the coming years, all thanks to initiatives like the Wandafull TRAIN.

About CoCo Gourmet

CoCo Gourmet, a leading brand in fresh dog food, emphasizes the highest quality ingredients, meeting human-grade standards. Their dedication to producing healthy, delicious meals for pets further enriches their travel experience, ensuring that every moment spent on the Wandafull TRAIN is truly unforgettable.