JR West to Launch "ONE PIECE Shinkansen" in Spring 2025

JR West to Launch "ONE PIECE Shinkansen" in Spring 2025

Project Overview
Objective:
To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Sanyo Shinkansen and the Osaka/Kansai Expo in April 2025, JR West aims to provide a new travel experience through the Sanyo Shinkansen, highlighting the charm of the surrounding regions in the Kansai area. This collaboration with ONE PIECE will offer passengers an immersive experience linked to the world of the popular anime.

Concept:
The Sanyo Shinkansen will be symbolized as the "Great Rail Line" (Grand Rail), inspired by the ONE PIECE world’s "Grand Line." The design will evoke the image of passengers embarking on an adventurous journey, much like the Straw Hat Pirates setting off to sea. The project aims to entice passengers on an "adventure journey to Setouchi."

Project Visuals:
Visually, characters from ONE PIECE will be featured, inviting passengers to embark on a journey full of dreams and hopes.

Shinkansen Train Designs
Three ONE PIECE Shinkansen trains will operate, each with a unique theme and design:

• First Train: "Setouchi Blue"
  • Theme: "Towards the Great Rail Line"
  • Design: The blue exterior of the train represents the Setouchi Sea. The design features Luffy at the front with other ONE PIECE characters, showcasing the spirit of adventure.
  • Concept: The train represents a journey through the Setouchi region, symbolizing the "Journey to Setouchi."
• Second & Third Trains:
  • These will feature different themes and designs, with details to be announced at a later date.

Shinkansen Experience

• Train Design:
  Both the interior and exterior of the train will be specially designed to reflect the ONE PIECE world.
• Station Features:
  At stations, there will be ONE PIECE themed content and exhibits, offering passengers the chance to experience the world of the story even before boarding.
• Exclusive Merchandise:
  Limited-edition ONE PIECE goods will be available for fans, enhancing the experience.
• Digital Content:
  Passengers will be able to enjoy ONE PIECE content via digital platforms aboard the train.

Launch Dates

• First Train:
  The first ONE PIECE Shinkansen will begin service in the spring of 2025, traveling on the Sanyo Shinkansen between Shin-Osaka and Hakata.
• Second & Third Trains:
  These will also be launched with different designs, expected to operate soon after the first train's debut.

Summary
The ONE PIECE Shinkansen is a special initiative designed to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Sanyo Shinkansen and the Osaka/Kansai Expo. It offers a unique experience for both ONE PIECE fans and travelers, featuring special train designs, station exhibits, exclusive merchandise, and digital content. This new venture will certainly enhance the enjoyment of the journey for fans and travelers alike.