Koupen-chan Rides the Rails
One of the things I love about living in Japan is the existence of kawaii cute culture. You don't have to look far to see cute mascots promoting businesses, housewares festooned with cuddly animals, and plush character charms hanging from the bags of school children and businessmen alike. It's only natural that commuter trains, an ever present part of life, would join in on the cuteness.
There are several aspects to the Koupenchan x Hankyu collaboration, including a stamp rally, promotional goods, adorable food options, and trains decorated inside and out with Koupenchan, the adorably optimistic penguin whom I wrote about in my last blog post. Naturally, I made it my mission to experience them all.
The trains feature beautiful murals on the outside showcasing some of the cities that the Hankyu line services.
Posters on the inside also highlight popular landmarks along the train line.
Window decals add a whimsical touch!
The digital displays have a surprise as well.
My favorite part of the Koupen-trains (as I like to call them) is the plush Koupen-chan conductor!
The stamp rally consists of four stations on the Hankyu line, and each of them features a Koupen-chan photo spot.
One station has been totally taken over by Koupen-chan!
Along the way, you can stop at various restaurants for specialty Koupen-chan foods.
And don't forget the souvenirs! (Yes, I HAD to buy the train.)
The first part of the stamp rally runs through December 12, during which you can purchase a special One Day Rail pass. The second, digital stamp rally goes from October 22nd through December 12th, in which you can buy a stamp rally kit with adorable plushies. Take your plushies to the designated stations and you'll be able to take a photo at a virtual photo spot!
The train and station decorations will stay up until January 31, 2022. Until then, I'll continue to get a thrill of excitement each time I see a Koupen-train. It certainly makes going to work a bit more enjoyable!
Koupenchan x Hankyu Official Page (Japanese)
Character Spotlight: Koupen-chan
All photos taken by me or my incredibly patient and supportive fiancé.