Final run for 'Cassiopeia,' popular luxury train in Japan
The double-decker "Cassiopeia" made its debut in 1999 as a luxury express sleeper. It paused regular service in 2016 due to the launch of the Hokkaido Shinkansen bullet train. East Japan Railway has operated the train on an irregular basis, exclusively for tours, as it was very popular. But JR East announced in May that the Cassiopeia will retire because its cars were getting old.
Shortly before noon on Monday, the silver train cars carrying about 120 passengers departed Sendai Station in the northeastern prefecture of Miyagi for the last time. It arrived at Ueno Station around 5:30 p.m.
After arriving, the passengers took photos in front of the train and touched the coaches for the last time.
At 6:07 p.m., the train ended this chapter of its history and left the Ueno Station platform, with passengers and railway fans watching.
A passenger in his 40s said he rode on the Cassiopeia with his wife for their 20th wedding anniversary. He said he has taken the overnight express more than 10 times and has many fond memories that cannot be expressed in a single word.
He added that some of its cars are getting old and their paint may be peeling in places, but he thinks the train has fulfilled its role to the fullest.
JR East says it is considering using the train cars for events. It says that in July, visitors will be able to enjoy dining in the train at Ueno Station.
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