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Last Updated:June 23, 2026, 15:36 IST
A splash of anime magic has arrived on Indian tracks. The Shin Chan-themed Sabari Superfast Express is turning heads across South India, delighting travellers and fans alike

Shinchan-Themed Train In India: The specially wrapped train operates as Train Nos 20629 and 20630 and covers a vast route stretching across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
If you’ve ever imagined spotting a real-life Shin Chan train in India, that childhood dream has now pulled into the station.
One of South India’s most popular long-distance trains, the Sabari Superfast Express, has received a vibrant Shin Chan makeover, transforming an ordinary railway journey into an unexpected attraction for travellers, train enthusiasts and anime fans.
Shin Chan-Themed Train Running Across South India
Running between Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala and Secunderabad in Telangana, the train now sports colourful artwork featuring the beloved cartoon character as part of a promotional campaign by Sony YAY!, which broadcasts the anime series in India, as reported by IGN.
Videos and photographs of the eye-catching train have quickly spread across social media, with passengers and railway enthusiasts stopping to capture the unusual sight as it passes through stations and towns across southern India.
Which Route Does The Shin Chan Train Cover?
The specially wrapped train operates as Train Nos 20629 and 20630 and covers a vast route stretching across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The extensive journey means thousands of travellers have a chance to spot, or even ride on, the animated attraction while the livery remains in service.
Anime-themed trains have long been a popular attraction in Japan, where railway operators frequently collaborate with entertainment franchises to boost tourism and showcase local destinations.
Why Is Indian Railways Running A Shin Chan-Wrapped Train?
Shin Chan-themed trains, in particular, are often linked to Kasukabe City in Saitama Prefecture, the fictional character’s hometown and the setting of the series. The Indian version, however, follows a different route. Rather than promoting tourism, the colourful transformation forms part of an out-of-home advertising campaign designed to promote new episodes and movie premieres of the long-running anime.
Yet for travel lovers, the train has become much more than a marketing exercise. It offers a rare chance to witness a themed express train on Indian tracks; something more commonly associated with Japan’s vibrant railway culture.
Why Travel Enthusiasts And Trainspotters Are Excited
For railway photographers, spotting the train has become a mini adventure. For anime fans, it’s a moving tribute to one of television’s most recognisable cartoon characters. And for ordinary passengers, it adds an unexpected splash of colour to an otherwise routine journey.
Whether you’re an avid trainspotter, a Shin Chan fan, or simply someone who enjoys discovering unusual travel experiences, this cartoon-covered express might be one of the most cheerful sights currently rolling through India’s railway network.
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Location :
Kerala, India, India
News cities kochi From Kasukabe To Kerala: Shin Chan Takes Over An Indian Express Train | WATCH
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