Take a trip to Japan this November through Japan Rail Cafe’s new virtual Japan Rail Fair – A Virtual Trip to Japan. Taking place online via their website and Facebook Page for 5 days over 2 weekends (20 to 22 November and 27 to 28 November 2020), the fair will include both free and ticketed live programs that feature a wonderful showcase of rail travel, Japanese food, and culture.
While this year’s Japan Rail Fair is virtual, that doesn’t mean less fun as you get to visit the popular destination vicariously through their experiential live programs that include Japanese food and alcohol delivery! Nonetheless, all ticketed programs can also be attended for free without food and beverage add-ons.
In addition, there will also be a free Online Travel Booth where you can speak with Japan travel planning experts to prepare for your next (real) trip when possible. As a grand lucky draw with attractive prizes will take place at the end of the fair, you are encouraged to tune in and participate in Japan Rail Cafe’s many live programs and travel planning booths to increase your chances of winning prizes that include Japan Rail East Passes as well as return flight tickets to Tokyo by Japan Airlines.
Experience Ehime At Home
Japan Rail Cafe offers us the opportunity to experience Ehime while staying at home from 7 pm to 8 pm, on 20 November 2020. Famed for hot spring resorts, a beautiful castle overlooking the main city, and a world-class cycling route by the sea, this prefecture on the northwest of Shikoku Island is simply too charming to resist.
Learn Japan’s Best Kept Secret
In partnership with Japan Rail Cafe, this first-ever online Shochu workshop organised by the Japan Sake & Shochu Makers Association (JSS) will be conducted by certified Shochu sommelier, Christopher Pellegrini, a leading expert on Shochu and awamori.
Make sure you have your Japanese food orders ready – they’re best enjoyed with the workshop sampling sets that will be delivered in advance for Singaporean attendees. Japan’s Best-Kept Secret Volume 2 – Awamori and Shochu Flavour Basics will take place on 21 November, Saturday, 7 pm to 8 pm on Zoom at S$45 per person, including delivery.
Enjoy Autumn Japan Rail Travel With Ekiben!
Conducted through Zoom from 11 am to 12 pm, this informative webinar is for those who miss idyllic train rides. Sit back and relax while JR East ‘leads’ an autumn journey to Eastern Japan, complete with adorable lunch boxes and JR East train memorabilia that will be delivered to your home in advance!
Look forward to learning more about ekiben culture, JR East’s distinctive themed Joyful Train line up, as well as autumn sightseeing spots and activities with their second session that takes place on 28 November, Saturday from 1 pm to 2 pm.
Tokyo Station: The “0 km” trip
Conducted through Facebook, this virtual “0 km” trip will start from Tokyo Station, where all Shinkansen lines originate! Hop on board and be fully immersed in Japan’s unique “rail travel culture” in Tokyo, one of the most important stations in Japan.
Experience the wonders of Tokyo starting with omiyage-shopping in Gransta Tokyo, an ekiben introduction by Japan Rail Cafe Tokyo, and a tour into the majestic Tokyo Station Hotel. In addition, special guest, Ghib Ojisan, will be introducing some yummy Tokyo Station souvenirs as well!
Sunday Japan Rail Stories: Rail Travel in Japan
This series of talks via Facebook sees the Japan Rail Cafe community sharing personal travel planning, stories and news regarding rail travel in Japan, led by guest speakers Rachell Tan and Travel Communicator Intern Norika from Rikkyo University, followed by a special Japanese food segment with speciality products!
Enjoy an authentic farm stay in Akita!
Hosted by Akita Inu Tourism, this heartwarming webinar will introduce a truly unique experience into a local guest house, Sakekoshimai, where you will meet the adorable Mr Yamauchi and learn how to make Kiritanpo, a must-try local dish, while also experiencing how to harvest rice for that dish!
Saturday Travel Plans: Furoshiki Gift Wrapping with Japan Airlines
In the upcoming season of giving, inject an element of Japan into gifting and join Japan Airlines (JAL) cabin attendants as they show you how to wrap your presents using the age-old art of Furoshiki – the traditional Japanese technique of wrapping and transporting valuable items.
Experience the warmth of Japanese hospitality as the cabin attendants take you through a step-by-step Furoshiki tutorial, while sharing with you the meaning of Omotenashi, travel planning tips and behind-the-scenes stories in the life of a cabin attendant on JAL. Be the first 30 to pre-register for this event and receive a free Furoshiki cloth, an exclusive gift from Japan Airlines.
Okinawa – Oasis of Japan
For the last day of the virtual tour, say ‘Haisai’ to the southernmost part of Japan where friendly people welcome all to enjoy the island’s pristine sea and untouched nature. Enjoy a traditional Sanshin live performance and join our guide for a virtual trip down Kokusai-dori Street in Okinawa!
Click HERE for more information about Japan Rail Cafe’s virtual Japan Rail Fair.
