JAL, which has bases throughout Japan, has been continuously implementing regional revitalization initiatives (currently the “JAL Furusato Project”), and in August 2020 launched the “JAL Furusato Ambassadors,” cabin crew members selected through an in-house recruitment process who move to the area to promote initiatives in their respective regions. In December of the same year, JAL appointed “JAL Hometown Cheering Troops” who are involved in regional revitalization while serving as flight attendants. The aim is to develop products and solve regional issues for hometowns and other regions with which they have connections, utilizing the knowledge they have accumulated as flight attendants.
We spoke with Tamako Sekiguchi, a JAL Furusato Ambassador who is involved in special chartered train tours in Hokkaido.
–What can you tell us about your initiatives?
HITOMEGURI” is a special chartered train tour of Hokkaido, operated by JAL and JR Hokkaido. This is the third year for the program, which will run a total of five times this fall. The lavender train will travel through colorful Hokkaido! The tour offers not only spectacular views from the train windows, but also special meals with plenty of local specialties, sales of local products by local municipalities in Hokkaido, and other attractions of Hokkaido.
–How are you involved in this effort?
We were also involved in the creation of plans for onboard events and information to help passengers fully enjoy the attractions of each region. JAL Furusato Ambassadors” and “JAL Furusato Ouen-tai” will board the Hitomeguri-go train and provide hospitality, relaxing exercises, and announcements to make the train trip more enjoyable and comfortable for passengers.
–What are your future plans and prospects?
As the Hitomeguri-go tours throughout Hokkaido, you will have many opportunities to meet the people who live in each area, and in many towns, you will be greeted and seen off in a way that is unique to that area. We hope that your next trip will not only visit major sightseeing cities, but also many other areas that you have toured on the Hitomeguri-go.
–What is your message to travelers?
The Hitomeguri is a tour that we hope you will enjoy with all of your senses. The beauty of the vast mountains as they change colors, the cool yet warm aroma of autumn, the sounds of animals, the exquisite cuisine of each region, and the relaxing hot springs that will relieve travel fatigue. …… We hope you will discover new attractions of Hokkaido on the Hitomeguri. You will be greeted by many cute animals such as red-crowned cranes, deer, and cows from the train windows. Why don’t you enjoy the spectacular scenery while sampling the local specialties that you pick up along the route?
© Source travel watch
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