SL Taiju 'Hatsu' to Enter Aizu-Wakamatsu Station for the First Time: Special Tours Revive Steam Locomotive Runs After 52 Years
Key facts
- SL Taiju 'Hatsu' to Enter Aizu-Wakamatsu Station for the First Time: Special Tours Revive Steam Locomotive Runs After 52 Years
- Tobu Railway's SL Taiju 'Hatsu' will operate between Aizu-Tajima and Aizu-Wakamatsu in June 2026, marking its first run on this segment in 52 years. The collaboration between four railway companies offers a unique cultural tour focused on the 'Aizu Spirit.'
- Source: PR Times
- Date: May 19, 2026
Direct answer
Tobu Railway's SL Taiju 'Hatsu' will operate between Aizu-Tajima and Aizu-Wakamatsu in June 2026, marking its first run on this segment in 52 years. The collaboration between four railway companies offers a unique cultural tour focused on the 'Aizu Spirit.'
- Citation
- SL Taiju 'Hatsu' to Enter Aizu-Wakamatsu Station for the First Time: Special Tours Revive Steam Locomotive Runs After 52 Years (May 19, 2026), PR Times
- Source
- PR Times
- Date
- May 19, 2026
Tobu Railway's SL Taiju 'Hatsu' will operate between Aizu-Tajima and Aizu-Wakamatsu in June 2026, marking its first run on this segment in 52 years. The collaboration between four railway companies offers a unique cultural tour focused on the 'Aizu Spirit.'
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: May 19, 2026 at 01:40
- 🔍 Collected: May 18, 2026 at 17:01
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: May 18, 2026 at 22:54 (5h 53m after Collected)
The 'Journey to Meet Aizu Spirit' Project Secretariat has announced a special tour utilizing Tobu Railway's steam locomotive, SL Taiju 'Hatsu.' The tour aims to provide an immersive experience of the Aizu region's culture and hospitality through interaction with local people.
Focusing on the Aizu West Highway that historically connected Nikko (the starting point of the Edo Shogunate) and Aizu (the final stronghold), the tour highlights the 'Aizu Spirit'—defined by resilience, heritage, and hospitality inherited from the Edo era to the present day.
### Key Highlights
- **Historical Run**: For the first time since 1974 (52 years), an SL will run between Aizu-Tajima and Aizu-Wakamatsu through a partnership between Tobu, Yagan, Aizu, and JR East.
- **Onboard Experience**: Passengers can enjoy recreations of the 'Aizu-Tajima Gion Festival Bride Procession' and exclusive Aizu-themed lunch boxes.
- **Local Excursions**: Tour itineraries include sake and regional food pairings in Minami-Aizu and bee-watching experiences with local apiarists in Aizu-Wakamatsu.
- **Station Events**: Markets and traditional 'Aizu-Tajima Taiko' drum performances will be held during stops at Aizu-Tajima Station.
### Booking Information
Reservations are available through JR East View Tourism & Sales, Club Tourism, and Tobu Top Tours. Each company offers different plans, including overnight stays or specialized photography events at the station.
Focusing on the Aizu West Highway that historically connected Nikko (the starting point of the Edo Shogunate) and Aizu (the final stronghold), the tour highlights the 'Aizu Spirit'—defined by resilience, heritage, and hospitality inherited from the Edo era to the present day.
### Key Highlights
- **Historical Run**: For the first time since 1974 (52 years), an SL will run between Aizu-Tajima and Aizu-Wakamatsu through a partnership between Tobu, Yagan, Aizu, and JR East.
- **Onboard Experience**: Passengers can enjoy recreations of the 'Aizu-Tajima Gion Festival Bride Procession' and exclusive Aizu-themed lunch boxes.
- **Local Excursions**: Tour itineraries include sake and regional food pairings in Minami-Aizu and bee-watching experiences with local apiarists in Aizu-Wakamatsu.
- **Station Events**: Markets and traditional 'Aizu-Tajima Taiko' drum performances will be held during stops at Aizu-Tajima Station.
### Booking Information
Reservations are available through JR East View Tourism & Sales, Club Tourism, and Tobu Top Tours. Each company offers different plans, including overnight stays or specialized photography events at the station.
FAQ
When can I see the steam locomotive in Aizu-Wakamatsu?
On June 27 and 28, 2026. Tobu Railway's SL Taiju 'Hatsu' will enter Aizu-Wakamatsu Station for the first time.
What unique experience is available in Minami-Aizu?
The tour offers a pairing experience of local Japanese sake from long-established breweries with regional cuisine.
Is there a photography event for the SL?
Yes, a photography event will be held at Aizu-Tajima Station on June 27, managed by Tobu Top Tours.