TOKYO, Japan - BostonChron -- Tobu Railway's latest model flagship limited express "Spacia X" trains began their inaugural run July 5, 2023. The six-car series N100 EMU "Electric Multiple Unit" trains operate on the Tobu Nikko Line from Asakusa station in Tokyo to Nikko and Kinugawa-onsen in Tochigi Prefecture. They are a spiffy, upgraded version of the original "Spacia Express" that launched in 2021. With six types of seating, to suit your travel style, they're a pleasurable ride. However, beyond their fashionable design, the new trains are impressively eco-friendly!  They have reduced CO₂ emissions by 40% compared with the previous Spacia fleet. The trains are effectively carbon net zero, with virtually all traction current sourced from renewables!

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Car Design

The Spacia X is a design-driven train, featuring windows inspired by the geometric patterns of Edo period fretwork carvings. The color is adopted from "noble white," resembling that of the gofun or whitewash on Nikko's famous Toshogu Shrine.

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Seating

In addition to regular seating, there are also "compartments," sofas and lounge-type seats. Among these, the top-of-the-line "cockpit suite" is a spacious and luxurious "moving suite room" with a wide view vista from the forward window, reminiscent of a private jet.

Eco-consciousness

The Spacia X reduced carbon emissions by improving motor performance and other features. As all operative electricity is converted to renewable energy, it helps contribute to the realization of "International Eco-Resort Nikko." With this concept, history, culture, traditions, and nature coexist in harmony.

Café

The "GOEN" café, located in Car 1, sells Nikko beer, Nikko blend coffee, Nikko-brewed saké, desserts made from Nikko saké kasu or lees, and snacks produced in the Nikko area. The café also contributes to the local community by donating a portion of the craft coffee sales to the training of local Nikko tour guides.

The Spacia X Can be Used with the Nikko-Pass

Tobu Railway's Nikko All Area Pass, good for 1-4 days, includes round-trip transportation between Tokyo's Tobu Asakusa Station and Nikko as well as transportation within Nikko and numerous Nikko area attractions and experiences.  When SPACIA X with the Nikko Pass, travelers need to purchase an additional express ticket on top of the regular ticket that is included with the pass. This is the case with all Tobu Limited Express trains. Spacia X fare information can be found here: https://www.tobu.co.jp/spaciax/en/ticket/index.html#sale_ticket

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About Nikko, Japan

Just two hours north of Tokyo, Nikko is cultural epicenter surrounded by treelined mountains, Japan's highest altitude lake, and restorative hot springs. The shrines and temples of Nikko – 103 structures total – have been a registered UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999!

About Tobu Railway
TOBU Railway Co., Ltd. is a major Japanese corporation consisting of approximately 80 companies. The Tobu Railway covers the longest operating distance in Metropolitan Tokyo, leading to numerous tourist attractions including: Asakusa and TOKYO SKYTREE TOWN in Tokyo; Nikko and Kinugawa-Onsen, famous for its world heritage sites and hot springs; the Tatebayashi and Ashikaga areas, known for their blooming flower fields; and Kawagoe and Tochigi City, where the atmosphere of the old Edo era lives on. Tobu is also invested in a portfolio of hotels, including the newly opened The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko and FUFU Nikko Onsen Resort.