The Choshi Electric Railway appointed an 11-month-old female kitten named Nakano-san (Kari) as the honorary stationmaster of Nakano-machi Station on May 6, 2026 [1].
The appointment serves as a strategic effort to bring "smiles and healing" to passengers [1]. The railway is currently facing ongoing financial difficulties and is utilizing the kitten as a mascot to boost public morale and attract visitors to the line [1].
Nakano-san (Kari) was rescued on Oct. 14, 2025 [1]. This date coincides with Railway Day in Japan, a connection that the railway leadership viewed as a significant sign of fate [1].
During the appointment ceremony, Driver and Director Nishigami Itsuki invited the kitten to enter the scene, asking the gathered crowd for a gentle round of applause [1]. The kitten now serves as a symbolic figure for the headquarters of the railway in Chiba Prefecture [1].
Takemoto Katsuki, President of Choshi Electric Railway, said that Nakano-san (Kari) has already provided smiles and healing to customers visiting the station [1]. He said that he hopes the kitten will continue to watch over Nakano-machi Station within a reasonable and stress-free range [1].
Regarding the timing of the rescue, Takemoto said, "Last year October 14, it was 'Railway Day.' I feel a connection" [1].
The use of animal mascots has become a recognized tool for struggling rural Japanese rail lines to maintain visibility, and community engagement [1].
““I feel a connection,” said President Takemoto Katsuki regarding the kitten's rescue on Railway Day.”
The appointment of a mascot stationmaster is a recurring survival strategy for small, financially distressed Japanese railways. By leveraging 'kawaii' (cute) culture and the emotional appeal of a rescue animal, the Choshi Electric Railway aims to create a destination-based incentive for tourists to visit, potentially increasing ticket sales and local commerce to offset operational deficits.
