Note: FruiTea Fukushima permanently ceased operations from December 2023.
Last year, JR East announced that it was time to bid adieu to everyone’s favourite cafe-themed sightseeing train: FruiTea Fukushima (フルーティアふくしま). After eight and a half years since its debut in April 2015 running along the Ban-etsu West Line, the popular Joyful Train will retire in December 2023.
But it isn’t goodbye without a farewell (tea) party. Earlier this year, The “THANK YOU FRUITEA FUKUSHIMA” Last Run Project was implemented to introduce exclusive travel packages as well as limited-time merchandise onboard the FruiTea Fukushima before its retirement.
With about 6 months left until the end of FruiTea Fukushima’s service, let’s see what’s in store this summer in this Last Run Project.
Final ride on the FruiTea Fukushima
As the FruiTea Fukushima is finally making its final departure at the end of the year, fans of the train and railway enthusiasts alike are trying to have that one last ride on the train. There are still a couple of months left before it retires, so why not take the opportunity to ride the Joyful Train for one last time?
Many locals and even foreign visitors to Japan are vying for the seats on the train, so availability is limited for the remaining months. The FruiTea Fukushima is also sold as a travel package only, so seat reservations are required and you can do so one month in advance before departure.
In addition, other travel packages are also available, which include specially arranged meals and even accommodation arrangements.
For more details on the various courses, visit JR East View Tourism and Sales website (Japanese only).
“THANK YOU FRUITEA FUKUSHIMA” Original goods
Original goods that showcase the charms of FruiTea Fukushima can be found at NewDays and NewDays KIOSK stores in Fukushima Station, Kōriyama Station, and Aizu-Wakamatsu Station. The original merchandises include:
- Stationeries such as clear files (A4 size), ballpoint pens, rulers;
- Accessories such as acrylic key holders, clear card cases;
- Tablewares such as mugs and coasters;
- Snacks such as popcorn and confectionery (フールセック).
Additional products and stores will be announced on the dedicated homepage.
FruiTea Fukushima train papercraft created by JR employees
A paper craft of the FruiTea Fukushima made by JR employees will be handed out by attendants at the cafe counter in Car 1. While stocks last.
If you want to know more about the popular Joyful Train and how to make reservations, read the following articles:
- The Travelling Café Train: FruiTea Fukushima
- Rail Report: Tasty Treats & 3 Fun Day Trips with the FruiTea Fukushima
- Eastern Japan’s Dining Trains and How to Book Them
Bon voyage!
Header image credit: JR East
