The Dream Sky Train

The Hokuhoku Line runs from Muikamachi, via Tokamachi out towards the Sea of Japan Coast. On the way through the mountains it has to pass through about 35 kms of tunnel. Tunnels are pretty dull at the best of times (unless you like that sort of thing) but on these trains they have found a very good use for them. While the train is in the tunnel they project animation and light shows on the roof of the carriage accompanied by uplifting music.

It is a great use of down-time and makes for a very interesting journey. It is always a great hit with the kids and is worth making the trip for even if you have no reason to head out to Naoetsu.

There is almost 20 minutes altogether of showtime as the train travels through 5 separate tunnels. There are several different shows, each with different themes, from fireworks, under the ocean, constellations, and outer space.

For a taste of the action there are some sample videos on the Hokuhoku Line Japanese webiste or some basic information on the English website.