Action stations as Doraemon fever hits

Popular manga Doraemon is set to grace Tuen Mun Siu Hong station on the Light Rail line, while three limited-period trains featuring the character's livery will run on the Light Rail, East Rail and Airport Express lines.

"Doraemon is a shared memory for Hongkongers, as the Cantonese dub has aired since the 1980s and grown up with the people of Hong Kong, just as the MTR has served for 45 years," said Jeny Yeung Mei-chun, managing director of Hong Kong's transport services.

The platform of Siu Hong station, a key New Territories hub, is being transformed to match the character's iconic aesthetic.

The main tone is a deep blue to complement Doraemon's signature chime, and the platform will be adorned with posters and decorations.

Yeung said more Doraemon-related events are in the works, including the character's appearances at stations and themed ticket sets.

The Doraemon-themed light rail train will first operate on route 610, running from Tuen Mun pier to Yuen Long station.

Its doors will be specially painted pink to mimic Doraemon's "Anywhere door."

Its front and back will showcase simulated versions of his iconic chime and red tail.

Yeung also said the train body features the new gadget for this launch, the "100% Friend Summoning Bell," and different styles of Doraemon on its ceilings, straps and seats.

The East Rail line and Airport Express-themed trains will also draw inspiration from "Anywhere door," with images of the character adorning the train doors and glass windows.

Fans were thrilled to see the themed light rail train, with one young one, Hong, exclaiming, "I'm so happy! I saw the Doraemon train! Doraemon is really here.."

A Doraemon exhibition, originally scheduled to run from July 13 to August 4, has been extended and will now end on August 11.