JR East Japan Tohoku Headquarters and JR East Japan Tohoku Comprehensive Services are set to release the 'Toreiyu Tsubasa' Anniversary Clock as a limited-edition item starting March 23, 2025. This clock utilizes drawings and dismantled parts of the E3 series 'Toreiyu Tsubasa' train, integrating nostalgia with craftsmanship. Orders for this special timepiece will be accepted through JRE MALL on their 'Tohoku MONO WEB SHOP'. Only 14 units will be produced, reflecting its exclusivity.
The clock, featuring dimensions of W570mm x D70mm x H294mm, will commemorate the beloved train known for its scenic views and passenger experience. Each clock will be priced at 55,000 yen, tax included, although shipping is an additional cost. Interested buyers need to register with JRE MALL in advance for a smooth purchasing experience. Notably, orders will end once all 14 units are sold.
The unveiling of the 'Toreiyu Tsubasa' Anniversary Clock coincides with the display scheduled for March 23 at the Yamagata Ekimachi Nakamaru market, where it will be showcased to enthusiasts and collectors alike.
In a separate but equally exciting event, the 1st anniversary of the Yamagata Shinkansen E8 series 'Tsubasa' was celebrated on March 16, 2025, at JR Yonezawa Station. This event was organized by Yonezawa City and co-hosted by Takara Tomy and Planned Yonezawa Co. JR East Japan’s Tohoku Headquarters lent support, culminating in a delightful day of activities.
Special decorations transformed JR Yonezawa Station into 'Plarail Yonezawa Eki' for the day, enchanting families and train enthusiasts mingling together in celebration. The highlight of the event was a simultaneous departure ceremony involving eight children who were honored as 'child stationmasters', designated through a selection process from numerous applicants across the region.
The children, accompanied by JR Yonezawa Station staff, shouted commands excitedly as they initiated a collaboration between a real 'Tsubasa' train and its Plarail counterpart. "Plarail was a great experience for the children, who were so excited to see the real bullet train up close," one participant remarked, underscoring the joy and excitement infused into the day.
The festivities attracted 765 visitors who cheerfully participated in the special event welcoming 'Tsubasa No. 127', which arrived at 10:22 AM and departed at 10:25 AM. As the train pulled in, attendees waved specially designed boards marked with “Welcome!” and “Safe travels!” The sense of community was palpable, with families collectively bidding farewell to the train as it departed, creating an atmosphere filled with laughter and camaraderie.
Among the participants, one child expressed, “I can’t wait to learn more about the Tsubasa!” evoking the hopeful spirit of future journeys. The JR Yonezawa Stationmaster expressed gratitude stating, “We are immensely grateful for all the attendees, and I believe they took home wonderful memories.”
An intriguing feature of the anniversary event included not only the departure and arrival celebrations but also a vast Plarail diorama on display in honor of the collaboration. Children marveled at the intricacies of the models as they engaged in playful exploration of their miniature worlds.
The 'Plarail Yonezawa Eki' station sign, an enduring symbol of the day's spirit, is planned to be on display until May 6, 2025, encouraging continued interest beyond the initial celebrations. Following the event, Plarail's massive diorama will be relocated to the Uesugi Castle Historical Museum and AEON Yonezawa store, where it will remain in view until the aforementioned date.
Overall, these events significantly contribute to enhancing the local culture and tourism in Yonezawa City, blending the imaginative realms of childhood play with the realities of high-speed rail travel. As these establishments recognize and foster community traditions, they ensure that the delight of trains and the whimsical nature of childhood toys will remain part of the cultural landscape.
The 'Toreiyu Tsubasa' Anniversary Clock and the celebration of the E8 series 'Tsubasa' not only commemorate a year of operation but also strengthen community ties, offering memorable experiences for children and families alike.
