Sunday, August 4, 2024
reading time: 2 minutes
Ezhou Peninsula Railway Company cooperates with Taipei Metro to attract international tourists, highlighting local attractions and delicious cuisine.
In an innovative partnership, A private railway company on the Izu Peninsula, south of Tokyo, is teaming up with the Taipei Metro to attract international visitors, showcasing local attractions and culinary specialties along its route.
Recently, a crowded resort train on the Izukyu Line headed toward the tip of the peninsula, and it was packed with tourists on a weekday, unlike any other day—Friday. Remarkably, about 70 percent of these passengers were from abroad, their heavy luggage neatly stowed under the seats.
The Izu Peninsula has traditionally been a favorite destination for European and American tourists, but has recently seen an increase in visitors from other Asian countries.
In a strategic move to attract more Asian tourists, Izukio signed a “friendship agreement” with Taipei Rapid Transit in late April. By May, the company had launched the Magi Train, decorated with Taiwanese scenery inside and out.
In late July, a promotion saw the two companies cut ticket prices by 30% on Izukyu’s Shimoda Cable Car in Shizuoka and Taipei Rapid Transit’s Maokong Cable Car, rewarding travelers who explore both destinations.
Local tourist spots are evolving with these new trends. For example, Atagawa Onsen in Higashizu lights up its evenings with red lanterns, creating an atmosphere similar to Jiufen, a popular spot in Taiwan.
Now, the area, which is primarily frequented by domestic Japanese tourists, is luring them with unique train rides. Izukyu has launched a special ticket—priced at 3,980 yen (about $27)—that covers unlimited travel for a day and includes a dining voucher that can be redeemed at select restaurants known for their fresh seafood.
Expanding its portfolio, Izukio launched the Wizu Olive brand in February, which includes olive oil, various food items, and even cosmetics. The products are available at gas station convenience stores, and are also displayed in local hotels and restaurants. The company’s olive oil gelato has become a signature product, with about 1,500 cups of the ice cream sold from April to June.
In response to the changes brought about by the pandemic, Izukio has converted many of its stations to operate independently, which is now seeing a resurgence in activity. In addition, the company opened a visitor center at one of the stations in April, offering amenities such as workspaces, luggage storage and a souvenir shop, enhancing the overall guest experience.
