On March 18th, Hankyu Railway launched a new service using transportation IC cards. Entry and exit to the same station are free for up to 20 minutes, making it more convenient for passing through stations, dropping off/picking up passengers, and using shops inside stations.
What can you do in 20 minutes? Announcer Maya Shimizu actually went inside the ticket gates of Osaka Umeda Station to investigate! First, she headed to “Rapoppo,” a Western-style confectionery shop that Shimizu described as “a shop I absolutely wanted to go to, even if it meant paying an entrance fee.” She immediately purchased a freshly baked potato apple pie. Next, she went to 551 Horai.
(Announcer Maya Shimizu) “Lucky! It’s not crowded. I’ll have two pork buns and ten fried dumplings, please.” After that, she purchased mandarins at an antenna shop for Ehime Prefecture. At this point, 7 minutes and 30 seconds had elapsed. (Shimizu announcer) “I’ve done quite a bit of shopping, but I still have more than 10 minutes left. I’m hungry, so I’m going to eat some sushi. I wonder if I can make it?” With about 12 minutes left, she heads to Takagi Fish Market for some sushi. She thoroughly enjoys a 5-piece set, but… will she have enough time?
(Shimizu announcer) “Yes, I’ve just exited the ticket gate. It’s 19 minutes and 29 seconds. I was able to do a lot of shopping in 20 minutes. Very fulfilling. Plus, I’ve eaten sushi.” A new service from Hankyu Railway. How would you use “20 minutes”? ▼MBS NEWS DIG
