Japan’s New GREEN LIFESTYLE TRAIN Connects Tokyo, Yokohama, and a Greener Future

1. What Is the GREEN LIFESTYLE TRAIN

Image source：Tokyu Corporation

Tokyu Railways is operating this special train to celebrate GREEN×EXPO 2027, officially known as the 2027 International Horticultural Expo, which will be held in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, from March 2027.
Its exterior design is inspired by the theme of the Tokyu Group Pavilion: GREEN LIFESTYLE 2050: A Future Nurtured and Connected from Seeds. Bright, colorful imagery covers the train, expressing hopes for a future in which cities and nature exist in beautiful harmony. The design is so vibrant that it seems to brighten the entire platform the moment the train pulls in.

Meet Miraidane, the Train’s Adorable Character

Image source：Tokyu Corporation

Character culture is an unmistakable part of Japan, and this train has its own adorable mascot: Miraidane.
Inspired by the architecture of the Tokyu Group Pavilion, Miraidane represents a future growing from a seed, one of the pavilion’s central themes. The smiling character can be found hidden across the train’s exterior and throughout the carriages. Searching for Miraidane makes the ride especially fun for families with children and travelers who love all things cute.

Step Into a Completely Transformed Carriage

Image source：Tokyu Corporation

The moment you step aboard, you enter the world of GREEN×EXPO 2027.
The entire interior has been given a special GREEN×EXPO makeover, with everything from hanging advertisements to stickers above the windows featuring visuals inspired by the expo and the environment. Like a pavilion on the move, the train transforms an ordinary journey into an opportunity to imagine how people might live in the future.

2. GREEN LIFESTYLE TRAIN Routes and Schedule

Japan’s railways use an interconnected through-service system, in which trains operated by different companies continue directly onto one another’s tracks. This allows passengers to travel considerable distances without changing trains.
Three specially wrapped train sets will operate between central Tokyo, Yokohama, and Saitama from summer 2026 until around the end of September 2027, when the expo is scheduled to close.

Services on the Toyoko, Den-en-toshi, and Meguro Lines

・Toyoko Line area, from July 14: The train travels from Shibuya through the subway network and continues directly toward Yokohama and Minatomirai, connecting major sightseeing areas in both Tokyo and Yokohama.

・Den-en-toshi Line area, from July 20: From Shibuya, the route continues via Omotesando and toward Tokyo Skytree before connecting with areas in Saitama and Tochigi.

・Meguro Line area, from August 3: The train travels from the subway network through Meguro and offers direct access to Shin-Yokohama Station, which is served by the Shinkansen. This makes transfers particularly convenient for travelers arriving from Kyoto or Osaka.

3. Hop Aboard: History, Culture, and Recommended Attractions Along the Route

Shibuya and Harajuku: Where a Modern City Meets a Sacred Forest

Shibuya is a major hub for both the Toyoko and Den-en-toshi lines. Its famous scramble crossing has become one of the defining symbols of modern Japan.
A short journey away in Harajuku is Meiji Jingu Shrine, surrounded by a vast man-made forest. Step away from the energy of the city, and you will find an atmosphere of stillness and sacred calm. It is a remarkable place to experience the harmony between nature and the spiritual traditions of Japan’s Shinto faith.

Yokohama and Minatomirai: The History of an International Port City

Yokohama opened its port to the world in 1859, becoming one of the first places in Japan to embrace Western culture. Today, the city is still home to numerous historic buildings, including the iconic Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse.
Yokohama Chinatown, one of the largest Chinatowns in East Asia, is another highlight. Here, visitors can sample a tempting variety of dishes shaped by the meeting of Japanese and Chinese culinary traditions.

Minami-Machida and Access to the Expo Venue

Minami-Machida Grandberry Park Station on the Den-en-toshi Line serves a new style of neighborhood where nature meets an open-air shopping center.
During GREEN×EXPO 2027, shuttle buses are scheduled to operate from the station to the expo venue. Visitors will be able to travel smoothly by train and bus from this neighborhood, which already reflects many of the ideas behind a greener lifestyle.

4. GREEN×EXPO 2027 and Its Fascinating Pavilions

At “GREEN × EXPO 2027,” leading Japanese companies will host pavilions expressing the concept of “coexistence with nature” from their unique perspectives. These exhibits, which will also be featured in exclusive train advertising takeovers, are a must-see.

Tokyu Group

Image source：Tokyu Corporation

A collaborative space where visitors can experience and help envision future lifestyles that bring nature and cities together.

Takenaka

Image source：Tokyu Corporation

An architectural space featuring grass-covered roofs and gardens, designed to let visitors experience the cycle of materials through all your senses.

UR

Image source：Tokyu Corporation

Videos and exhibits exploring disaster recovery and the creation of sustainable housing.

Meiji Yasuda

Image source：Tokyu Corporation

A third place where visitors can receive health checks and experience traditional culture.

Shimizu Corporation

Image source：Tokyu Corporation

An educational space where children take the lead, exploring a forest while interacting with sunlight and soil.

At GREEN×EXPO 2027, leading Japanese companies will present their own interpretations of how people can live in harmony with nature. These pavilions, which are also introduced through displays inside the GREEN LIFESTYLE TRAIN, are among the expo’s must-see attractions.

5. Why Are Japanese Railways So Special? An Environmentally Friendly Way to Travel

Many international visitors are impressed by the punctuality and cleanliness of Japan’s railways, but those are not their only strengths.
Rail travel produces significantly lower carbon emissions per passenger than traveling by car or plane, making it a comparatively environmentally friendly form of transportation. Riding the GREEN LIFESTYLE TRAIN therefore becomes part of a more sustainable approach to ecotourism and environmentally conscious travel.

6. Frequently Asked Questions for International Visitors

Tickets, Services, and Train Etiquette

Q: Do I need a special ticket, and when does the train operate?
No special ticket or reservation is required. You can board using a regular ticket or an IC card such as Suica or PASMO. The train operates as part of the regular daily timetable, so if you happen to spot it, count yourself lucky!

Q: Is the train covered under the JAPAN RAIL PASS?
No. The train operates on private railway lines, including those operated by Tokyu Railways, so the JR-only JAPAN RAIL PASS is not accepted. You will need to use a separate ticket or an IC card.

Q: Can I eat on the train?
On commuter trains in Japanese cities, passengers are generally expected to avoid eating, particularly full meals or foods with strong smells. Stick to something simple such as bottled water, and save your meal for after you leave the train.

Journey to Discover the Seeds of the Future

The GREEN LIFESTYLE TRAIN carries a message about building a more sustainable future.
After a day of shopping in Tokyo or sightseeing in Yokohama, take a moment to relax aboard this special train decorated with flowers and greenery. As the city passes outside the windows, imagine what your own future lifestyle might look like.
Keep an eye out for Miraidane hiding around the carriage. The cheerful character may add an unexpected smile and another memorable moment to your journey.

(Source/Main Image :PR Times)