The luxurious sleeper train Cassiopeia, once a symbol of elegance and comfort connecting Tokyo's Ueno Station with Sapporo Station in Hokkaido, is nearing the end of its journey. After years of captivating passengers with its unique charm, Cassiopeia will make its final run in June 2023, marking the end of an era for this beloved train.
Cassiopeia's story began in July 1999, offering a luxurious travel experience unlike any other. However, with the opening of the Hokkaido Shinkansen, the voltage in the Seikan Tunnel connecting Hokkaido to Honshu was adjusted to accommodate high-speed trains, leading to the end of Cassiopeia's regular service in March 2016.
Despite the shift, Cassiopeia continued to operate as a special tour train, captivating travelers with its distinctive design and overnight accommodations. Its silver metallic body adorned with five stripes remained a popular sight across eastern Japan.
However, time has taken its toll on the aging train. With more than 25 years of service, the cars have shown signs of wear, and the number of locomotives capable of pulling the train has dwindled. As a result, the June tour will be Cassiopeia's final run, marking a bittersweet farewell to a beloved piece of Japanese railway history.
6 Comments
G P Floyd Jr
This feels like the end of an era. The Cassiopeia was more than just a train, it was a symbol of luxury and adventure.
Martin L King
The Seikan Tunnel upgrade was necessary for the future of high-speed rail in Japan.
Rolihlahla
The memories and experiences created by the Cassiopeia will live on forever, even though the train itself is retiring.
Martin L King
It's a loss for Hokkaido tourism. The Cassiopeia offered a unique travel experience that attracted visitors.
Manolo Noriega
With proper maintenance, the cars could have lasted longer. It feels like the decision to retire it was rushed.
Sammmm
It's time to invest in modern trains with better efficiency and technology.