Celebrating One Year of Byu-Tetsu: Exciting Campaigns for Train Enthusiasts
The brand dedicated to train lovers, Byu-Tetsu, is marking its first anniversary with an exciting campaign offered by JR East View Tourism & Sales, headquartered in Sumida, Tokyo. Since its launch in 2025, Byu-Tetsu has captivated train enthusiasts with unique travel experiences, including exclusive tours of railroad facilities that are usually off-limits, special train journeys, and photography workshops. The response from loyal fans has been overwhelmingly positive, encouraging the brand to create more immersive railroad experiences.
To commemorate this milestone, Byu-Tetsu is launching a special campaign featuring unique prizes and a hands-on train driving experience. For the second phase of this celebration, the brand is conducting a giveaway that includes the chance to ride the Isumi Railway Kiha 28 2346 and a set of rail souvenir items.
Campaign Overview
Between April 1, 2026, and September 20, 2026, guests who participate in Byu-Tetsu tours will have the opportunity to enter a draw for these exciting prizes. The details of the gift campaign are as follows:
Application Period
From July 1, 2026, at 14:00 until September 20, 2026, at 23:59.
Eligible Tours
Participants must book a Byu-Tetsu tour departing between April 1 and September 20, 2026. This applies to tours that have already departed as well. However, participation in the tour is necessary to be eligible. Applications without actual tour participation—due to cancellation or waiting lists—will be disqualified.
Prizes
- - First Prize: A driving experience on the Isumi Railway Kiha 28 2346 for 2 winners.
- - Second Prize: A Fujita Rail souvenir weights and dog nails set for 8 winners.
How to Enter
Interested participants should visit the campaign’s special entry page on the “Travel in Japan, Train Travel” website to submit their entries.
Winner Announcement
- - First Prize: Winners will be notified via phone.
- - Second Prize: Prizes will be shipped directly to winners.
More information is available at the
campaign page.
Special Byu-Tetsu Products Now Available
Currently, Byu-Tetsu offers various train experience tours that include charter train rides and visits to exclusive areas typically inaccessible to the public. One of the highlights includes the night train service using the E257 series, which runs from Shinjuku to Niigata and Murakami via the Joetsu Line and Uetsu Line. This tour is reminiscent of the famous “Moonlight Echigo” night tours, allowing collectors and fans to relive the nostalgia of overnight train experiences with exclusive merchandise.
For those interested in northern routes, Byu-Tetsu features long-distance rides on the classic Kiha 40 series and expeditions to the Yoshio Point, a rare area associated with the Seikan Tunnel. These unique offerings from Byu-Tetsu combine intricate experiences that train enthusiasts may find difficult to access on their own.
Example Tours
- - GV Gunma Minakami Ride & Special Station Tour (Day Trip)
- Departure Dates: July 25-26, 2026
- Price: ¥19,700 per adult
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Booking Page
- - Moonlight Echigo Night Train Experience (Overnight Trip)
- Departure Date: August 28, 2026
- Price Range: ¥14,770 – ¥55,000 per adult
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Booking Page
- - Ten-Year Anniversary of the Hokkaido Shinkansen Special (2 Days)
- Departure Dates: September 12-13, 2026
- Price Range: ¥120,000 – ¥135,000 per adult
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Booking Page
- - Kiha 40 Series Long Distance Ride (Day Trip and Overnight)
- Departure Dates: September 12-13, 2026
- Price Range: ¥27,000 – ¥135,000 per adult
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Booking Page
These tours are part of JA East Japan's commitment to providing unique experiences that celebrate the joys of train travel, ensuring lifelong memories for aviation enthusiasts.
About JR East View Tourism
The vision of Byu-Tetsu is to enrich people’s lives through innovative travel experiences that connect communities and contribute to a sustainable society. By showcasing the thrill of travel and uncovering hidden gems across Japan, Byu-Tetsu elevates the joy of exploration and discovery.
For more information on sustainable tourism initiatives, visit the
Sustainable Tourism Project.