#Japan #Osaka #travel #Kinki Region #Rail Passport

New Era of Rail Travel in the Kinki Region

In an exciting development for train enthusiasts, the Kinki region will soon have a brand new rail passport, known as the "Kinki Area Version of the Rail Passport," launching on December 12, 2025. This initiative is a joint effort by several key players in the travel and rail industry, including the Third Sector Railway Council, Yomiuri Travel Co., Travel Yomiuri Publishing, and Nippon Travel Agency. This is a significant moment, marking the introduction of the Rail Passport for both Osaka and Wakayama, regions previously unrepresented in this popular program.

The Rail Passport initiative began in July 2020, aimed at promoting railway usage, revitalizing local communities, and providing new revenue sources for railway companies. The program has proven successful, with over 76,000 passports sold and more than 830,000 stamps collected from various participating railway companies.

The Kinki Area Version of the Rail Passport will be the fourth edition following other regional passports, including those for Tohoku, Tokai, and Chugoku-Shikoku. This new version features the participation of 10 railway companies, highlighting notable transport options in the region, including the centennial Waterma Railway and the famous cat stationmaster at Wakayama Electric Railway. This fresh collaboration between railway companies aims to encourage more travelers to explore the Kinki area, prompting longer stays and greater exploration.

Participating Railway Companies

The Kinki Area Version will include 10 railway companies, which will begin sales through designated company outlets on December 12, 2025:

• - Omi Railway
• - Shigaraki Kogen Railway
• - Eizan Electric Railway
• - Keifuku Electric Railway
• - Kyoto Tango Railway
• - Mizuma Railway
• - Wakayama Electric Railway
• - Kobe City Transportation Bureau
• - Hojo Railway
• - Chizu Express

Note: Companies in bold are new additions to the Rail Passport initiative.

This Rail Passport is sized at 160mm x 115mm, contains 24 pages with dedicated sections for each of the 12 participating companies, and includes 7 pages for free space. The passport will be priced at an estimated ¥1,800 (tax included).

To obtain stamps, travelers must present a valid ticket along with the Rail Passport on the day of travel, encouraging everyone to experience the scenic routes and local attractions.

The Rail Passport has been recognized for its positive impact in promoting regional trains and enhancing local tourism, winning notable awards such as the Grand Prize in the 2020 Railway Travel Award and the Special Prize at the 20th National Railway Awards. The initiative continues to grow, with efforts to forge deeper connections between rail travel and regional development, making Japan's rich railway culture more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

The launch of the Kinki Area Version symbolizes a commitment to the future of rail travel in Japan, bringing forth a new chapter in train tourism and community engagement. With this new passport, travelers will not only embark on journeys across beautiful landscapes but will also play a part in nurturing local economies and preserving the heritage of Japan's railways.