We are pleased to announce that for the 2026 Meiji Yasuda J1 League Matchday 17 against Fagiano Okayama on Saturday, November 28, 2026, we will be collaborating with East Japan Railway Company (JR East) and JR East View Tourism & Sales Co., Ltd. to operate a special, non-stop direct train service between Ryogoku Station and Kashima Soccer Stadium Station, named the "Kashima Antlers Supporters Train: Football Dream."
Background: Reducing Stadium-Area Traffic Congestion and Environmental Impact
The majority of fans currently travel to Mercari Stadium by car, and the severe traffic congestion that occurs around the stadium before and after matches has been a long-standing local issue. At the same time, the significant environmental impact caused by the resulting CO2 emissions is a growing concern.
To address these challenges, we are launching this direct train service connecting the Tokyo metropolitan area to Kashima Soccer Stadium Station to promote a "modal shift" from private cars to public transportation, thereby encouraging a "sustainable spectator style" using rail travel.
Train Concept: An "Entertainment Space" to Enjoy Travel Time
This special train is more than just a means of transport; we have prepared content to maximize the "excitement of heading to the stadium" while remaining environmentally conscious. We will offer a new match-day experience that allows fans to enjoy the journey itself, featuring an on-board meet-and-greet with club legend Yasushi Endo and special in-train announcements by our official mascot, "Anton."
■ Three Highlights of the "Football Dream" Train
1. Taking on Social Challenges:
Promoting sustainable spectating that leads to reduced traffic congestion and lower CO2 emissions by encouraging a shift from cars to public transport.
2. Direct Travel to the Stadium Without Transfers:
A comfortable, non-stop, fully reserved service operating directly from Ryogoku Station to Kashima Soccer Stadium Station.
3. Exclusive Experiences Available Only on the Special Train:
Enjoy a meet-and-greet with club legend Yasushi Endo, special on-board announcements by our mascot "Anton," and an on-board raffle. Additionally, every passenger will receive original merchandise (an original tote bag and a commemorative boarding pass).
Event Overview
■ Eligible Match:
Saturday, November 28, 2026, 15:00 Kickoff (Doors open at 12:00 scheduled)
2026/27 Meiji Yasuda J1 League Matchday 17 vs. Fagiano Okayama
■ Route and Schedule:
Ryogoku Station to Kashima Soccer Stadium Station (Direct, non-stop)
・Outbound: Depart Ryogoku (11:41) → Arrive Kashima Soccer Stadium (13:45)
・Inbound: Depart Kashima Soccer Stadium (18:20) → Arrive Ryogoku (20:42)
※ Schedules are subject to change. There will be no stops at intermediate stations.
■ Train Type:
E257 series 5-car train (All seats reserved)
■ Capacity:
240 passengers (Minimum required: 200)
■ Fare:
Adults: 13,500 JPY / Children: 10,000 JPY
※ Match tickets are not included in the travel fare and must be purchased separately.
■ Fare Includes:
(1) JR train tickets (including reserved seat fees) for the itinerary stated.
(2) On-board light meal and drink (outbound only) ※ There will be no on-board sales.
(3) On-board raffle entry ticket.
(4) Special merchandise (original tote bag, commemorative boarding pass).
■ Sales Start Date and Time:
Thursday, October 1, 2026, 12:00
■ How to Apply:
JR East View Tourism & Sales Co., Ltd. "Nihon no Tabi, Tetsudo no Tabi" website (Internet only)
URL: https://link.jrview-travel.com/nitaq
■ Travel Planning and Implementation:
JR East View Tourism & Sales Co., Ltd.
■ Special On-board Events
1. Meet-and-Greet with Kashima Antlers Club Legend Yasushi Endo
Club legend Yasushi Endo will visit each car to interact with supporters.
2. In-train Announcements by Mascot Character "Anton"
Special in-train announcements will be played to build anticipation for the match.
※ As these are pre-recorded, "Anton" will not be physically on board.
3. On-board Raffle
A raffle will be held in each car, giving fans the chance to win posters signed by players.
4. Station Hospitality
The train will use the special Platform 3 at Ryogoku Station for both departure and arrival. The platform will be specially decorated to welcome everyone.
Important Notes
・Seats may be shared with other passengers.
・All photos and illustrations are for illustrative purposes only.
・The information in this release is current as of September 25, 2026, and event details are subject to change without notice.
Inquiries
Kashima Antlers Call Center
Inquiry Form
support@antlers.co.jp
※ We respond to inquiries in order, but please note that it may take some time.