#Japan #Ikebukuro #IKEBUS #Christelle Ciari

A Fresh Spin on Ikebukuro's IKEBUS Experience

On August 22, 2023, the beloved red electric bus service, IKEBUS, will debut a revamped audio announcement system designed to enhance the travel experience for locals and visitors alike. Launched in November 2019, IKEBUS has become a favorite among citizens and tourists, winding through major spots in Ikebukuro at a leisurely pace.

In light of increasing foot traffic in the Ikebukuro area and a rise in inbound tourists, the team behind IKEBUS is eager to go beyond being merely a means of transportation. The focus is now on transforming the travel time into a rich experience that immerses passengers in the charm of Ikebukuro.

The new audio announcements will be delivered by Christelle Ciari, a familiar voice for many, known for her role in over 50 railroad announcements across Japan, including JR East and Tokyo Metro. The announcements will be bilingual, featuring both Japanese and English. Passengers can expect not only stop announcements but also insightful introductions to surrounding attractions, facilities, and recommended spots.

Enhancing Local Discovery

This project aims to offer local residents a chance to rediscover the area's unique features and provide an enjoyable tour experience for newcomers visiting Japan. According to a spokesperson from the city: “There’s no other bus like IKEBUS, where you can enjoy the sights of Ikebukuro while listening to the voice of Christelle Ciari. Whether you’re a transportation enthusiast or new to the area, we believe everyone will find something captivating about the charm of the updated Ikebukuro.”

Detailed Overview of the New Announcement System

• - Launch Date: August 22, 2023
• - Narrator: Christelle Ciari
• - Routes: A and B routes (all lines)

- Route A: A compact route exploring Ikebukuro's eastern areas, including Ikebukuro Station East Exit, Sunshine City, and Toshima City Hall.
- Route B: A larger loop connecting the East Exit and West Exit of Ikebukuro, allowing for an extensive tour of the area.

• - Languages Offered: Japanese and English
• - Content of Announcements: Stop information and introductions to nearby attractions and points of interest.

For more information, visit the official website.

Meet Christelle Ciari

Christelle Ciari hails from Hyogo Prefecture and is affiliated with Aoike Production. Her father, Claude Ciari, is a renowned guitarist. Christelle gained popularity as the fourth host on NHK Educational TV's “Eigo de Asobou.” She has contributed to railroad announcements and has provided commentary and narration for various international events, including the Olympics, World Swimming Championships, and the upcoming Asian Games.

As a musician, she released the album “Daisuki na Nihon no Uta” in 2023, featuring traditional Japanese songs translated into English and French. Looking ahead to 2026, she has plans for multiple album releases and nationwide concerts, marking her return to live performances while continuing to excel in narration and announcements.

In her words, Christelle expresses her excitement about being able to announce for the charming IKEBUS: “Every IKEBUS has a different design inside, which makes each ride a joyful surprise! To finally be at a place where I can announce ‘Next stop’ in Japanese is a dream come true. I am dedicated to showcasing Ikebukuro's captivating spots—hop on board and discover new views of this vibrant community, even if you have no particular destination!”

This newly designed audio experience is not just about travel; it offers passengers a chance to immerse themselves in the heart of Ikebukuro, whether for locals rediscovering their city or tourists exploring for the first time.