To celebrate the upcoming Osaka World Expo, JR West has introduced special “Parade Trains” that will run along one of the rail routes for the Expo venue. These trains have an onboard “immersive video experience” that is intended to create a sense of anticipation for the Expo.
JR West Parade Train for Osaka Expo 2025
Two specially decorated #323 series electric trains will run as Parade Trains between Shin-Osaka Station and Sakurajima Station on the Osaka Loop Line and Sakurajima Line.
A design image of the Parade Train’s interior
Inside each train, LED screens displaying video content are installed along the entire length of the carriages. To create a sense of openness like that of an open-top car in a parade, the scenery outside will be shown on these screens in real time while the train is moving — with added augmented reality effects such as confetti, fireworks and soap bubbles.
Although one of the Parade Trains began running in December, and the other will start in mid-February, the full augmented reality show will not begin until the Expo starts in April.
The Osaka-Kansai Expo will be held for six months starting on April 13th. The venue for the Expo is located on the island of Yumeshima in Osaka Bay, and many visitors will use Parade Trains on their way there.
Article by Michael Lambe. Images courtesy of JR West. All rights reserved.
