JR West is accepting applications on a first-come, first-served basis for a special tour of Hanwa Line train depots on 29 November 2026. Participants will ride a 281 series train used for the limited express Haruka, tour normally restricted areas of the train depot and a siding, and hear explanations from a driver and conductor.
JR West has announced the “Explore the Hanwa Line train depot with railway professionals aboard a limited express” tour, which will take place on Sunday, 29 November 2026, with applications accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants will ride a six-car 281 series train used for the limited express Haruka and tour a train depot and the siding within Tennoji Station, areas that are not normally accessible.
A driver and conductor will accompany the group and explain the train’s structure and driving and shunting operations. The program also includes a recreation of the onboard announcements used when the Haruka service began, a tour of the luggage compartment, and an exclusive plan allowing participants to enjoy the sound of the train in motion, offering an up-close experience of railway culture. Participants will receive an original commemorative ticket certificate prepared by staff of the Tennoji Crew Depot.
Sales will be on a first-come, first-served basis, with the launch scheduled for around 14:00 on 4 November 2026. Applications will be accepted through a dedicated page to be posted in the “Railway Fans’ Treasure Box” section of tabiwa Travel, which is scheduled to go live on or after 29 October 2026. Participants will meet at Kumatori Station at 8:30 and disperse at 17:00.