These are basic and functional objects that have smoothly moved through bullet train corridors for many years, providing snacks to countless hungry passengers as they zip along at speeds of approximately 300km/h (186mph).
However, the modest carts used for food and drinks on a shinkansen route in Japan have unexpectedly become a sought-after item for cafeterias and homes throughout the country.
The wagons, which have a capacity of 50 kilograms for food and beverages, were made available for purchase in January following the decision by Central Japan Railway Company to stop selling snacks and drinks on the popular Tokyo to Osaka shinkansen route. This was due to staffing issues and a decline in demand from passengers who typically purchase their snacks from train station shops before boarding the 500km journey.
The company initially intended to get rid of the items, but was convinced by train enthusiasts to sell them, as they were interested in obtaining a piece of Japanese railway history. Each trolley was priced at ¥100,000 (£528).
The firm announced that it had received a total of 1,942 bids for 2,432 available carts when the online bidding for one of the 50 carts closed earlier this month.
According to reports, those who were interested were only allowed to make two bids each. These included school cafeterias and people who want to have the devices in their kitchen someday.
The trolleys, measuring 110cm in height and 33cm in width, quickly became a staple of high-speed train travel after the shinkansen debuted in 1964, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of its service ahead of the Tokyo Olympics.
According to the Asahi Shimbun, the rear brakes of these vehicles would automatically engage when the catering staff released their hands from the steering lever. The front wheel was also designed to navigate any uneven surfaces between train carriages.
The carts transported over 60 products, such as non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages, bento boxes, and various sweet and savory snacks. However, most passengers on the route will recall the carts for their unique “firm” ice cream – kept cold with dry ice to allow for slow consumption during lengthy trips – some even placed it on a sealed hot coffee to make it softer.
Fans of both bullet train coffee and ice cream now have the convenience of purchasing these items from vending machines located on train platforms.
Source: theguardian.com
