JR East now run a special weekend train for cyclists traveling from Tokyo to the Boso Peninsula in Chiba Prefecture.
B.B.Base – A New Train for Cyclists
Named the B.B.Base, or Boso Bicycle Base, the new train is fitted with space-saving upright bike racks, so that cyclists can easily board and stow their bicycles. On most trains in Japan cyclists must fold or dismantle their bicycles when boarding a train, but as the following video shows taking your bicycle on board the B.B.Base is totally hassle-free.
The B.B.Base runs from JR Ryogoku Station in Tokyo every Saturday and Sunday and has six carriages with both seating and bike racks for 99 passengers. All seats have electronic power outlets so passengers can literally recharge their batteries.
The train’s exterior is painted “urban” grey with bicycle motifs
The Boso Peninsula is famous for its mild weather, sandy beaches, seasonal flower displays and scenic views. It is a perfect destination for cycling enthusiasts in need of fresh weekend excursions. JR East offer four alternative courses to different areas of the Boso Peninsula which run on different weekends. These four courses are as follows:
The Uchibo Course to Tateyama or Wadaura stations.
Nagisanoeki Tateyama
The Sotobo Course to Katsuura Station.
Onjuku Beach: a 30 minute cycle ride from Katsuura Station
The Sawara Course to Sawara Station.
Traditional buildings in Sawara
The Choshi Course to Choshi Station.
Inubosaki Lighthouse is a famous location in Choshi City
All of these courses must be reserved at least 5 days in advance. JR East’s official B.B.Base website has information on recommended cycle routes for each of these courses, but unfortunately at the present time all information including schedules and booking details are only given in Japanese. Booking can be done through the B.B.Base website, but if you can’t read Japanese you may need to get a friend or travel agent to help you.
JR East’s B.B.Base train
Article by Michael Lambe. Photos by JR East. All rights reserved.
