A Meticulously Reproduced Paint Job Down to the Smallest Details

While some details of the car body have changed over the years due to repairs and modifications, such as the headlight under the front window changing from a single to a dual lamp, the color scheme has been reproduced as faithfully as possible. The white number "2" in the bottom right of the front is a recreation of the old metal route indicator plate. The V-shape was adjusted multiple times to ensure it gave the same impression as the single-lamp era, even with the new dual lamps.

"I want people to enjoy the contrast between the old-fashioned colored streetcar and the redeveloping cityscape," says Mr. Wada.

Detailed craftsmanship. The number in the bottom right recreates the route indicator plate

One Last Year to See the Final Classic Streetcar Color!

For the inaugural run on August 1, 2023, children living along the line were invited aboard by city-walking researcher Satoshi Wada. He explained the history of the area and the streetcar, and the children listened intently. Along the route, many streetcar fans were seen with their cameras, and some even held up handmade signs saying, "Congratulations on the project's success." It was a moment that truly showed how much the Sapporo Streetcar is loved by the community.

Children listening attentively to Mr. Wada's explanation

The revival-color streetcar was initially scheduled to run until April 2024, but thanks to overwhelming support, its operation has been extended to May 10. Car number 243 will run as a regular vehicle through the streets of Sapporo before being retired. During this period, special event runs are also planned, and private charters are available. The final year of the long-beloved Sapporo-colored streetcar has begun.

The current green-colored vehicle (left) and the restored color (right)

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