Nankai Electric Railway will begin operating a new tourist train between Namba Station and Gokurakubashi Station on the Koya Line from the end of fiscal year 2025.
Currently, Nankai has been operating the “Tenku” between Hashimoto Station and Gokurakubashi Station since 2009 as a tourist train heading to Mount Koya, a registered World Heritage Site. The two-car train is a modified version of the 22000 series (later the 2200 series), known as the “commuter zoom car,” and is equipped with wide windows, one-view seats, an observation deck, and other features that allow passengers to enjoy the nature of the mountainous area with all five senses.
The new tourist train will replace the “Tenku,” and will expand its operating area to include Namba Station, and will be a four-car train with each car unique in its own way. The aim is for the train to be a tourist train that is not just a means of transportation, but one that makes the train journey itself a special experience, so it will feature a luxurious interior, comfortable seats, and windows that offer panoramic views.
In terms of service, the plan is for attendants to provide attentive service and meals made with local ingredients. Nankai hopes to target the new tourist train not only at tourists visiting Mount Koya, but also at people who enjoy luxury travel, and is considering setting fares that correspond to the added value.
This release revealed some images of the interior, but it has not yet been revealed what the exterior design will be, what type of carriage it will be, or whether it will be a new or modified carriage, so we will be keeping an eye on future announcements.
