#Japan #Tokyo #JR East #View Tetsu #train travel

Celebrating One Year of View Tetsu

The railway-themed brand View Tetsu, launched by JR East's View Tourism & Sales (VTS), proudly celebrates its first anniversary. To mark this milestone, the company is launching a special campaign that includes unique travel packages designed specifically for railway enthusiasts.

Since its establishment in 2025, the View Tetsu brand has been dedicated to providing railway fans with experiences that delve deep into the world of trains. This includes exclusive tours of railway facilities that are generally not accessible to the public, as well as group charter services and photographic events. These offerings have received overwhelming responses from avid railway fans.

As part of the anniversary campaign, the first travel product features two exciting events: a special photography session with trains scheduled for retirement and a unique night-time walking tour of the former Usui Pass route.

Special 1-Year Anniversary Travel Products

1. Photography Event at Nagano Vehicle Center

Event Details

• - Trains Involved: 115 Series S9 formation and 211 Series N608 formation
• - Location: Nagano Vehicle Center
• - Recommended Points: This photography event will allow participants to capture the 115 Series S9, which is set to retire in March 2026, alongside the recently repainted 211 Series N608. The session will be held on a private track within the Nagano Vehicle Center for 60 minutes, providing a relaxed environment for just 25 participants to enjoy.

Schedule:

• - First Session: 6:50 AM - 7:50 AM
• - Second Session: 11:20 AM - 12:20 PM

Note: Participants cannot join midway or leave during the event.

Departure Date: April 19, 2026
Pricing:

• - First Session: 40,000 JPY per adult
• - Second Session: 50,000 JPY per adult

Capacity: Up to 25 participants per session; minimum of 20 participants required.

Booking Links:

• - First Session
• - Second Session

2. Midnight Walking Tour of Usui Pass

Event Details

• - First Time Ever: Midnight walking tour of the famous Usui Pass
• - Route: The former Shinetsu Main Line from Karuizawa Station to Yokokawa Station
• - Recommended Points: Walk the entire downward track of the former route, which was closed in 1997. This guided tour will explore areas typically inaccessible, including tunnels and bridges, and will allow participants to appreciate the engineering challenges of the steep Usui Pass. This exclusive midnight event is a homage to the express train “Noto” that once traveled this route.

Total Distance: Approximately 11.2 km (estimated journey time: 6 hours 20 minutes)
Departure Date: May 6, 2026
Pricing: 30,000 JPY per adult
Capacity: Up to 30 participants; minimum of 20 participants required.
Booking Link: Walking Tour

How to Apply

Both travel products are available exclusively online through the “Japan Travel, Railway Travel” website. They will go on sale on March 6, 2026, at 2 PM.

• - Organizer: JR East’s View Tourism & Sales

Please note that all details are subject to change or cancellation due to unforeseen disruptions and weather conditions. For additional information regarding tour policies, please refer to the website.

Future Developments

As part of the anniversary celebrations, View Tetsu will introduce more exciting travel products featuring popular trains, along with tours that visit legendary stations. Stay tuned for updates through the dedicated View Tetsu web page and official X account, as more information gets released.

• - Website: View Tetsu
• - Official X Account: View Rail Travel

About View Tetsu

Ratified as VTS’s brand, View Tetsu is about experiencing a special journey filled with a love for railways. Not only do we offer exceptional train rides and photography opportunities, but we also provide engaging experiences including railway sounds and visits to decommissioned lines, dedicated to those who cherish trains.

Company Vision

“Enhancing people's lives through tourism and creating sustainable value with the community.” At VTS, we believe travel is a catalyst for discovery, connecting individuals to new landscapes and experiences. By blending authentic customer engagement and our unique network with JR East, we aim to continually innovate and provide exceptional travel experiences to our customers and communities.

For sustainable tourism initiatives, visit: Sustainable Project