At Tokyo ∞kei, draft service has begun for the beer “DEPARTURE on TRACKS,” commemorating the opening of OIMACHI TRACKS. It was created together with JR staff to mark the new mixed-use complex that opened in front of Oimachi Station on Saturday, March 28, and uses hops grown in Oimachi.

Although hop cultivation is said to be difficult, these hops were reportedly harvested miraculously in their first year. Using ingredients born from a place that has watched over this town for more than 100 years, the beer has been crafted as a toast to the new beginning in front of the station.

The flavor combines a citrus-fruit aroma with the soft sweetness of oats, while bitterness is kept modest. The finish is crisp and clean, and it is presented as an IPA that feels like a “first step” and is easy for beer beginners to drink.

The serving location is the beer pub Tokyo ∞kei in Sanno, Ota Ward, Tokyo. Just a 35-second walk from the west exit of Omori Station, the venue centers on eight taps of draft craft beer and also offers a standing bar counter, event space, live performances, and the terrace beer garden “Awanoniwa.” It works equally well for dropping in for a single casual drink or staying longer to enjoy it alongside an event.

“DEPARTURE on TRACKS” can also be enjoyed not only at Tokyo ∞kei, but at event stalls for OIMACHI TRACKS and TRACKS PARK. Bottled take-home sales are available at Tokyo ∞kei and NewDays Oimachi Tracks. Following “Ittari Kitari,” the commemorative beer created three years ago for the 120th anniversary of Kamata Station, this one is a drink that gently connects the stations and neighborhoods of Oimachi, Omori, and Kamata.