Japanese railway benefits from Asian tourism

A private railway on Japan’s Izu Peninsula is capitalising on a surge in international tourism by partnering with Taipei Metro and enhancing its offerings.

Izukyu Line has seen a significant increase in foreign visitors, particularly from Asia, with around 70 per cent of passengers on a recent weekday train being non-Japanese.

In April, Izukyu signed a friendship agreement with Taipei Rapid Transit, launching the Ma Ji Train decorated with Taiwanese scenery.

The two companies also introduced a 30 per cent discount on tickets for their respective ropeway attractions.

Izukyu has also introduced a special ticket priced at 3,980 yen ($27) offering unlimited travel and a meal voucher to attract domestic tourists.

The railway is diversifying its revenue streams through its Wizu Olive brand, which includes olive oil, food, and cosmetics.

Izukyu is also investing in passenger amenities, reopening previously unstaffed stations and establishing a reception centre at one location to provide workspace, luggage storage, and retail options.

Attribution: The Nikkei Asia