Summer Adventure for Families! Launch of Selected Summer Courses for 'Fretemina', an Experiential Learning Tour

As part of the JR East Group's 'HAPPY CHILD PROJECT', a child-rearing support service, JR East and JR East View Tourism & Sales are offering 'Fretemina', a program that provides children of the next generation with 'railway journeys' and 'various authentic experiences through travel'. This initiative supports children's growth and helps families create lasting memories.
This summer, we have prepared a selection of special courses where you can spend an extraordinary time experiencing nature and hands-on activities that can only be found with 'Fretemina'. Why not embark on a journey with 'Fretemina' where children can experience genuine nature and culture, a special trip that contributes to their growth, and a journey that expands their potential?

1. Overview of the Summer Courses

(1) Head to the popular roadside stations 'Agreem Showa' and 'Kawaba Denen Plaza'! Experience harvesting fresh corn in the vegetable kingdom of Showa Village!
A taste-testing bus tour in Gunma that the whole family can enjoy. Departing from Takasaki Station, head to Roadside Station Agreem Showa. The seasonal corn harvesting experience is highly popular with children! You can also enjoy shopping for fresh vegetables. Lunch is at the Okutone Winery restaurant, featuring hamburger steak and Highland Gratin. In the afternoon, enjoy free shopping and strolling at Roadside Station Kawaba Denen Plaza.
Departure Date: Saturday, July 25, 2026 (Day trip)
Departure/Arrival: Takasaki Station
Tour Price: Adult 17,800 JPY, Child 16,800 JPY

(2) Walking on the tracks?! Embark on a summer adventure with the 'Usui Pass Abandoned Railway Walk' and a guided tour of the 'Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park'!
The former Shinetsu Main Line between Yokokawa and Karuizawa was abandoned in 1997. The Usui Pass still has tracks, bridges, and tunnels in their original state. Accompanied by a specialized guide, stroll through areas that are normally off-limits! Walk on the tracks through tunnels and eat your bento on the rails. At the Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park, you will tour the park with a guide.
Departure Date: Saturday, August 8, 2026 (Day trip)
Departure/Arrival: Tokyo Station
Tour Price: Adult 30,000 JPY, Child 20,000 JPY

(3) Become a train driver! Authentic train driving experience on the Echizen Railway and fossil excavation at the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum!
On day 1, see impressive dinosaurs at the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum! At the Katsuyama Dinosaur Forest, try your hand at fossil excavation. On day 2, tour the Echizen Railway depot and experience driving a real train.
Departure Dates: August 22 and September 19, 2026 (2 days)
Tour Price: From Tokyo Station 68,000-72,000 JPY

(4) Spectacular scenery for the family! 2 days crossing the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route on 6 vehicles!
The Alpine Route is a perfect summer trip. Traveling by vehicles means short walking distances. Enjoy an exclusive guided walk in Midagahara and a guided tour of the Kurobe Dam.
Departure Date: Saturday, August 1, 2026 (2 days)
Tour Price: From Tokyo Station 97,800 JPY

(5) Children's Captain Experience on the sightseeing boat at Lake Okutadami and learn about hydroelectric power at the Okutadami Dam!
Board a sightseeing boat on the unexplored Lake Okutadami! Enjoy a Captain Experience on board. Explore the Okutadami Dam and learn about hydroelectric power.
Departure Dates: July 19, August 22, and 29, 2026 (2 days)
Tour Price: From Tokyo Station 43,800-47,800 JPY

(6) Ride the sightseeing train Resort Shirakami! 2 days enjoying the Akita Kanto event and a scenic train running along the Sea of Japan!
A course to enjoy the Resort Shirakami. On the first day, experience the Kanto performance at the Akita City Folklore Center!
Departure Dates: August 8 and 22, 2026 (2 days)
Tour Price: From Tokyo Station 59,800 JPY
Capacity: 30 people (minimum 15)