Travel enthusiasts and puzzle lovers are in for a fun new experience starting in late February 2025! JR East’s Niigata Branch has partnered with mystery game developer Nazotoki Adventure to introduce the Secret Express, the first-ever mystery-solving game on the bullet train.
Passengers on the Joetsu Shinkansen traveling from Niigata Station, Tsubame-Sanjo Station, or Nagaoka Station to Tokyo Station will be immersed in a gripping mystery as they take on the role of an agent in a secret organization. The story follows the agent on a mission to discreetly deliver an envelope containing classified documents, all while avoiding detection from rival organizations.
Designed to appeal to both novice and experienced puzzle solvers, the Secret Express offers an interactive and engaging experience throughout the journey. The adventure begins as soon as passengers board the shinkansen and continues until they reach Tokyo. With the help of a special puzzle-solving kit (available at NewDays convenience stores at the departure stations), participants get to unlock clues and solve riddles, all without leaving their seats.
The game will run from February 27th to September 30th 2025, and to participate, passengers will need to purchase the kit for 2200 JPY (excluding transport fees) and access the game via a QR code. The recommended trains for the best experience are those arriving at Tokyo Station between 9:30 AM and 7:50 PM—the official guidelines mention that travelers on trains outside these hours might not be able to enjoy the full experience.
The Secret Express is set to offer approximately 80 to 140 minutes of entertainment, depending on the train station you start from. Whether you’re a puzzle enthusiast or simply looking for a fun, immersive experience, this is a must-try event for anyone traveling along the Joetsu Shinkansen.
