Recent large-scale events in Yamaguchi City and Munich highlight the logistical challenges faced by railway companies during major gatherings. In Yamaguchi City, post-event congestion after a performance by the idol group 'King & Prince' left many fans stranded at the Shin-Yamaguchi Station. Despite shuttle buses operating from the venue to the station, the heavy traffic resulted in some attendees missing the last train. JR West responded by offering water, biscuits, and makeshift bedding materials to around 1,000 fans who spent the night at the station.
Kenji Hirooka of JR West’s Hiroshima branch acknowledged in a press conference that despite pre-event planning with organizers, the transportation arrangements were insufficient. He emphasized the need to consult with event organizers to better manage future events and transportation logistics.
In Munich, preparations are underway for the European Football Championship, which promises to bring tens of thousands of additional rail passengers to the city. The Munich Central Station, currently a bustling construction site, will see temporary pauses in construction activities from June 14th to July 14th, to accommodate the influx of football fans. Additional staff and UEFA volunteers have been hired to guide travelers, with large floor markings and signs directing them to key locations such as the Allianz Arena and fan zones in the Olympic Park.
Various measures are being implemented to facilitate fan travel, including welcome desks at key stations and additional luggage storage options. To manage the increased demand, the railway will offer 42 additional journeys on match days, late-night S-Bahn trains, and special regional trips to nearby cities. Additional ICE trains will also connect Munich with major cities like Stuttgart, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Berlin, ensuring fans arrive in time for the games.
- In Yamaguchi City, the fireworks event featuring 'King & Prince' attracted around 30,000 fans to the Kirara Expo Memorial Park, culminating in congested traffic and transport issues post-event.
- The idol group's event concluded at 8:30 p.m., and the delayed shuttle services caused significant inconvenience for many fans, reflecting the need for better planning and coordination with public transport services.
