#Japan #Chiyoda #JR East #PLARAIL #Metropolitan Edmont

Hotel Metropolitan Edmont's Family Festival 2025

On April 27 and April 29, 2025, Hotel Metropolitan Edmont, located in Iidabashi, Chiyoda, hosted a spectacular event named the "Golden Week Family Festival 2025." This vibrant celebration allowed families to immerse themselves in various train-related activities at the hotel's banquet hall, boasting participation from a record number of enthusiastic attendees.

Exciting Train-Themed Attractions

The festival featured a massive Plarail diorama measuring 7.2 meters in length and 3.6 meters in width, showcasing the beloved train simulation that has captured the hearts of children and families for generations. At the event, children could engage hands-on with the "Let's Play with Plarail" corner, where they could bring their Plarail tracks and play freely.

The Plarail brand, introduced by Takara Tomy, is celebrating its 65th anniversary in 2024. With over 2,083 different types sold in Japan and more than 191.4 million units distributed since its debut, Plarail embodies a rich history cherished by families across three generations. The iconic blue tracks created a nostalgic atmosphere for parents, reminiscent of family gatherings around the traditional Japanese "chabudai" table.

Interactive Experiences in Train Operations

One of the highlights included a special corner where children could interact with real train station staff. Guests donned child-sized stationmaster uniforms for memorable photo opportunities and participated in activities such as creating custom badges, inputting text on LED departure boards, pressing the departure bell, utilizing magic hands, and experiencing the thrill of 'ticket stamping' during mock services.

Additionally, a display showcased 1/20 scale models of the E5, E6, and E7 Shinkansen trains, enhancing the event’s appeal to train enthusiasts of all ages.

Fun and Delicious Delights

The festival went beyond train models. Families enjoyed a buffet filled with various culinary delights, including the hotel’s signature roast beef, curry, fried chicken, and French fries served in a lively festival style. The dessert experience included a special opportunity for children to work alongside skilled hotel pastry chefs to create delightful desserts like parfaits.

To ensure a well-rounded experience, kids could also indulge in a nail art corner, offering manicures and nail stickers, allowing them to explore their creativity.

Engaging Activities and Community Connection

Furthermore, families participated in a railway sticker rally, where children collected stickers from different corners to receive prizes and certificates. The event positively highlighted the recovery efforts in Ofunato City, showcasing photographs from the aftermath of the major wildfires and offering complimentary Japanese sake