On Wednesday night, the Consulate General of Japan in New York and Japan National Tourism Organization hosted a reception at the private residence of His Excellency Kenichiro Sasae, Ambassador of Japan to the United States.

This event commemorated the upcoming debut of a new direct Bullet Train service from Tokyo to Kanazawa. It is scheduled to start in March 2015.

The time-length new train service is anticipated to take within two and a half hours. In addition to a program on the new rail service, two multimedia presentations were given on first-hand experiences in exploring the region of Hokuriku. Hokuriku is well-known for being the home to fine craftsmanship and traditional Japanese arts.

Following the presentations, guests got to sample delicacies from Hokuriku include fresh seafood and regional sake.