Tokyo's historic Sakura Tram goes permanently digital

The Tokyo Sakura Tram is now permanently offering travelers the ability to purchase digital one-day passes.

Officially called the Toden-Arakawa Line, the Tokyo Sakura Tram is the last remaining tramline in Tokyo.

The line is operated by Toei, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s Bureau of Transportation, who also operate the extensive Toei Subway system in the city.

Digital versions of the Tokyo Sakura Tram One-Day Pass have previously been offered, however this was under a temporary scheme that was due to end this month.

The tram line passes through many areas of Tokyo that have a significant number of cherry trees

Due to significant positive reception and high demand from users, Toei have reconsidered and decided to continue the sale of the digital passes.

This digital ticketing service allows passengers to conveniently purchase a One-Day Pass through a dedicated smartphone app called RYDE PASS prior to boarding the tram.

Using this app eliminates the need for cash transactions at ticket vending machines or on the tram itself.

The Toden Arakawa Line is the sole remaining surface streetcar line in Tokyo and is known for traveling through local neighborhoods and offering scenic views of cherry blossoms during the spring season, which is why Toei markets it as the “Tokyo Sakura Tram”.

The Tokyo Sakura Tram is the last remaining part of tram system that started in 1903

The tram runs through several neighborhoods in Tokyo, including the Arakawa, Kita, and Toshima wards, which each have their own unique character and local charm.

From April 1^st, purchasers of the digital Toden One-Day Pass will also receive a digital coupon accessible within the same smartphone application.

This coupon can be presented at participating businesses, including restaurants and shops located along the Toden Arakawa Line to receive various discounts and special offers.

Toei hopes that this will both enhance the travel experience for visitors and encourage patronage of local establishments.

The design of the digital passes reflect the long history of Tokyo’s trams

The One-Day Pass costs 400 yen (approx. $2.67 USD / £2.06 GBP) for an Adult ticket and 200 (approx. $1.33 USD / £1.03 GBP) for a Child ticket.

Payment for the digital ticket can be made in the RYDE PASS app using several methods including credit cards, Google Pay, Apple Pay and PayPay, a widely used mobile payment service in Japan.

Source: PR Times