‘Night On The Milky Way Train’ is a fairytale by Kenji Miyazawa, which tells the story of a lonely boy named Giovanniwho travels on a galactic train with his friend Campanella. The journey startsfrom the Northern Cross and progresses towards the Southern Cross, with thetrain eventually arriving at its final destination. Throughout the journey,only Giovanni and Campanella remain on the train, and it is revealed thatGiovanni is actually dreaming. This story inspired Reiji Matsumoto to createthe famous ‘Galaxy Express 999’. In ‘Night On The MilkyWay Train’, ‘One Piece’, and ‘Paul's Miraculous Adventure’, imagination andcreativity allow for boundless journeys. Exploring the limitless throughimagination and storytelling is both thrilling and enjoyable.
Kenji Miyazawa, who was born in IwatePrefecture, Japan, in 1896 and passed away at the young age of 37, continued towork on this piece until shortly before his death, though it remainsunfinished. In the story, the main focus is on the weak and lonely boy Giovanniand his best friend Campanella as they travel on the galactic train towards theSouthern Cross. The strange passengers on the train seem to be deceased soulsheading to the heavens, and their repeated discussions on "true happiness"lead Giovanni to reflect on what true happiness means.
Giovanni, who faces ridicule fromclassmates due to his father's alleged crime and imprisonment, is one nightgazing at the stars when he suddenly hears a voice saying "GalacticStation" and is enveloped in a dazzling light. He finds himself on thegalactic train with his classmate Campanella. On the train, they meet variouspassengers with different thoughts and ways of life, and learn many things.Campanella's poignant words about seeking forgiveness from his mother and thenature of true happiness resonate deeply. The journey continues with encounterssuch as an academic excavating ancient bones, a bird-catching merchant, andother unique individuals. By the end of the story, Giovanni discovers thatCampanella has passed away and returns to his home, where he is embraced by hismother.