Wakayama studies transport options for potential IR

The city has taken a step forward in plans for its IR bid, considering public transport infrastructure to connect the resort.

Japan.- Wakayama has announced plans to conduct joint research with Nankai Electric Railway on the provision of new public transport access to its potential IR development.

The city intends to bid for one of Japan’s three licences to develop an integrated resort.

Nankai Electric Railway Co. has proposed the introduction of a Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) system with dedicated bus lanes in addition to the city’s existing buses. The system would increase the transport links available to the intended resort.

The company will begin joint research with Wakayama city to consider its feasibility.

By improving connections from main transport hubs to tourist spots, it would attract new tourism and improve travel around the city, the government said this week.

The trial run of a route that would connect JR Wakayama Station, Nankai Electric Railway Wakayama City Station and Wakayama Marina City is scheduled for the end of the year.