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JR Sightseeing Limited Express Train "Ibusuki no Tamatebako"



Together with the opening of the Kyushu Shinkansen Kagoshima Route in March, the sightseeing limited express train "Ibusuki no Tamatebako" has begun service on the JR Ibusuki - Makurazaki line.


"Ibusuki no Tamatebako", literally translated "Ibusuki Treasure Box", is named for the famous Japanese folk tale "Taro Urashima"(※) which remains along the JR Ibusuki - Makurazaki railway line. The train is also nicknamed "Ibutama".


◆Unique Exterior

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You'll be surprised to see the paint job on the body of the train. The front of the train is divided into right and left, black and white, and the same paint motif continues down the sides―――In other words, the side by the sea is pure white and the side by the mountains is pitch black. This design is based on the story of when Taro Urashima opened the treasure box, was transformed into an old man and his black hair turned white.


◆Welcoming Passengers with White Mist!

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Once the doors open it's "all aboard"! White smoke pours out from above the door as you board the train. This is a special performance to welcome the passengers, and it's based on the white smoke which pours out from the treasure box that Taro Urashima opens in the story.


◆Parlor-Style Sofa and Bookshelves

With seats facing out the windows towards the ocean, parlor-style sofas and shelves, and a baby circle for the children with adorable little chairs, the train interior will make you feel like you've come to play in your friend's kids' room.

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The sightseeing limited express train "Ibusuki no Tamatebako" has two train cars (capacity 60 people) and makes three trips per day (round trip) between Kagoshima Chuo Station and Ibusuki Station. Reservations are required.

 

＜Timetable＞

Sightseeing Limited Express Train

Kagoshima Chuo Station

Kiire Station

Ibusuki Station

Ibusuki no Tamatebako #1

9:54

10:24

10:46

Ibusuki no Tamatebako #3

11:52

12:21

12:43

Ibusuki no Tamatebako #5

14:01

14:34

14:58

 

Sightseeing Limited Express Train

Ibusuki Station

Kiire Station

Kagoshima Chuo Station

Ibusuki Tamatebako #2

10:53

11:16

11:45

Ibusuki Tamatebako #4

12:52

13:15

13:46

Ibusuki Tamatebako #6

15:06

15:29

16:00

 

 

（※）Taro Urashima

 In the legend, Taro Urashima is a fisherman who saves a sea turtle from being bullied by children. As thanks, the turtle brings Taro to Ryugu Castle at the bottom of the sea. Princess Otohime warmly receives him at the castle. After a while Taro states his intention to return home, and the princess gives Taro a treasure box, saying "no matter what, don't open it". The sea turtle carries Taro back to his village, but there is no longer anyone there he recognizes. When he opens up the treasure box, mist pours out and Taro, bathed in the magical mist, is suddenly transformed into an old man. He had only spent a few days at Ryugu Castle, but on the surface many, many years had gone by.

 


 

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