A Yomiuri Shimbun writer, in the driver’s seat, receives an explanation from the train driver. - Photo: The Yomiuri Shimbun
According to the transport ministry, this is the first train operation event in the country to allow participants to drive on the actual tracks.The stretch of the tracks used for the event is about 250 meters from Matsue Shinjiko Onsen Station in Matsue.Successful applicants are required to take part in a separate train operation event of the company, in which trains are operated on tracks inside a depot, before driving on the real train track.
In early September, the company held a trial event for the press, in which a Yomiuri Shimbun writer took part.