Japan is set to combine two iconic symbols, One Piece and Shinkansen trains, in an exciting collaboration launching in 2025.
JR West has announced that three Shinkansen trains running on the Shin-Osaka to Hakata route will be themed around Eiichiro Oda’s legendary series.
The first of these, called Setouchi Blue, will debut in Spring 2025, coinciding with the Osaka Expo.
Inspired by the Setouchi Sea, which the Sanyo Shinkansen travels alongside, this train will feature a striking blue design showcasing the beloved Straw Hat crew.
The Setouchi Blue train will mark the beginning of what is cleverly referred to as the Grand Rail, a nod to One Piece’s Grand Line.
Two additional themed trains will follow later, each with exclusive designs and illustrations created specifically for the project.
While exact details of these designs haven’t been revealed yet, fans can look forward to vibrant and imaginative representations of the One Piece world both on the exterior and inside the trains.
Inside the trains, travelers can expect a fully immersive One Piece experience. Each train’s interior will be uniquely decorated, with elements inspired by the series to bring its adventurous spirit to life.
JR West also plans to release exclusive merchandise at stations along the Sanyo Shinkansen route, ensuring that fans can take home a piece of the collaboration.
Other themed events and projects will link this special train ride with One Piece.
The collaboration comes at an ideal time, as One Piece remains immensely popular worldwide. For fans in Japan and visitors attending the Osaka Expo, the One Piece Shinkansen promises to be more than just transportation it will be an unforgettable experience merging anime and travel.
The vibrant designs and accompanying projects aim to connect the thrill of the Straw Hats’ adventures with the stunning views of the Sanyo region.
Meanwhile, One Piece anime continues to expand its reach. Crunchyroll is streaming the entire series and has added One Piece Log: Fish-Man Island Saga, a streamlined version of the original arc.
This condensed version, spanning 21 episodes, features updated visuals and retells the story of the Straw Hats’ reunion and their journey to the Fish-Man Island.
It highlights their growth after a two-year separation and sets the stage for new challenges in the New World.
The One Piece Shinkansen collaboration adds another layer to the series’ incredible legacy. Fans will not only get to celebrate the adventures of Luffy and his crew but also experience a modern take on travel infused with anime magic.
This initiative ensures that One Piece’s impact extends beyond screens and pages, bringing its vibrant energy to real-life journeys.
