What this is
Riding the Tokaido Shinkansen unlocks exclusive voice dramas featuring characters from The Idolmaster SideM — making the bullet train journey itself part of the experience. The six members of F-LAGS and C.FIRST appear in special outfits inspired by JR Central uniforms and the 315 Series train, with separate outbound and return-trip audio stories available only onboard. On the ground in Nagoya, location-based voice dramas trigger at Nagoya Station, Sakaechika Crystal Plaza, and Sakae South Square, and fans who collect proof of travel can redeem a social media-style clear card at the pop-up store. Collaboration merchandise — including acrylic stands, can badge sets, and a Piyorin-themed keychain — is sold at the Sakae South Square venue throughout the campaign.
Who should go
Dedicated Idolmaster SideM fans, particularly those who can travel via Shinkansen to make the most of the onboard voice drama content. Casual anime merchandise collectors may also find the pop-up store worth a visit if already in Nagoya.
Good to know
The pop-up store at Sakae South Square (3-25-39 Sakae, Naka Ward) is open 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and is the only redemption point for the travel bonus clear cards. Advance admission reservations may be required on busier dates — check the official website before heading over. Merchandise is available while supplies last and popular items like the Piyorin collaboration keychain are likely to sell out early in the campaign. The campaign runs alongside the Deramas promotion by Meitetsu World Travel, so the venue may be busier than a typical pop-up. Cash is generally advisable at anime pop-up stores in Japan, though some accept IC cards or card payment — confirm on-site.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.