Japan Railway Journal S2023E02 - Ichibata Electric Railway: Working Hand in Hand with the Region

In 2022, Ichibata Electric Railway in Shimane Prefecture celebrated its 110th anniversary. The railway is a vital means of transportation for locals, as well as a popular sightseeing route for tourist spots along the line. However, running at a loss since 1966, the railway has relied on financial support from the local government. Now, in the wake of the pandemic, the railway is working with the region to come up with new and unique ways to boost passenger numbers.