Konan Bus in Japan will hold a campaign to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Aomori/Hirosaki–Ueno (Tokyo) route, the “Panda-go Ueno Line.”
The “Panda-go” began service on December 1, 2005 as a 4-across, no-restroom coach, responding to demand for lower-cost travel, in addition to the existing “Nocturne-go,” which offered 3-across seating and an onboard restroom. In 2006 the route was extended to the Aomori Ferry Terminal, and in 2007 frequencies were increased to two round-trips. Because the service originally originated and terminated at Ueno, and its nickname borrowed the image of Ueno Zoo’s pandas, the name took hold. When the Aomori/Hirosaki–Shinjuku line later started, it was named the “Panda-go Tokyo Shinjuku Line,” while the Ueno service became the “Panda-go Ueno Line.”
As part of the campaign, travel on December 1 will be offered exclusively to 20-year-olds for 20 yen, and travel on December 2 will be 200 yen, both available by lottery. Only five seats per departure are available for each. Applications are accepted until October 30, with winners announced on October 31.
Additionally, special fares starting from 2,000 yen will be offered for travel from December 1 to 11. Fares are 2,000 yen on December 1, 3,000 yen on December 2, and 3,500 yen thereafter. An extra 1,000 yen applies on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Customers who purchase tickets at Hirosaki Bus Terminal, Goshogawara Station Front Information Center, Aomori General Information Center, or the Hirosaki University Co-op Tabi Shop will receive an “original eye mask.” Among those who ride eligible services and complete a survey, accommodation vouchers, bus tickets, and other prizes will also be given away by lottery.
⇒For more information
AloJapan.com