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These 7 Scenic Trains Offer the Best Views of Japan

By Marianna Cerini

Japan—where remaining pandemic travel restrictions drop today —knows a thing or two about great train rides. The country boasts a solid railway system that’s fast, punctual, and relatively affordable, particularly if you get a discount rail pass—from the country-wide Japan Rail Pass (most commonly known as JR Pass, which must be purchased outside of Japan) to local ones homing in on specific regions.

But it also includes some of the splashiest private train lines there are, with on-board services akin to those you’d find in an ultra-luxury hotel , comfortable private cabins, lounges that are essentially salons on wheels, and elevated gastronomic offerings.

Simply put, whatever area in Japan you decide to focus on, there’ll be a captivating train journey to zip you around it. Here are seven of the very best trains in Japan, from glamorous to panoramic and plain romantic.

Kurobe Gorge Railway

The Japan Alps—the mountain ranges running along the spine of central Honshu (the country’s main island)—have long been the nation’s geographical and spiritual heart, home to shrines and sacred sites, hot springs, and traditional farmers’ villages. A trip to the region is an absolute must, and the Kurobe Gorge Railway is the perfect sightseeing train to set the mood for it.

Originally built in the mid-1950s to serve the construction of the Kurobe dam, the line operates along a winding 12.4-mile stretch that crosses the Kurobe Gorge—one of the deepest gorges in Japan—linking the stations of Unazuki and Keyakidaira. On the 80-minute ride, guests can take in views of rugged mountain landscapes and steep cliff sides, a forested ravine and the gurgling Kurobe River, as they traverse more than 20 bridges and some 40 tunnels. Different stops along the way offer plenty of opportunities to go for a hike or, why not, stop at an open-air onsen.

Tickets start at $18 (or 2,610 yen). Be aware that the train operates seasonally from late April through November, and it’s most popular in October, when the fall foliage turns the hillsides into a tapestry of reds and yellows. If you go then, bring a jacket: most of the cabins are open-sided.

Running along the western coast of the Aomori and Akita Prefectures in northern Japan—a region brimming with wild nature and volcanic mountain ranges—the 91.5-mile Gono Line is an important route for residents of the area. It also happens to be one of the country’s most scenic railways. Depending on the season, the train passes through lush forests and snowy landscapes, rice paddies and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakami-Sanchi, a virgin forest of Japanese beech trees. Expect the standard quality of Japan trains—efficient, fairly comfortable, and extremely reliable. 

Word to the wise: Add an extra layer of entertainment to your sightseeing experience by booking the Joyful Train that runs along the Gono Line ( Joyful Trains are concept trains featuring on-board activities, special dining cars, and special station events). Called Resort Shirakami , it includes live “shamisen” (traditional three-string guitar from the Tsugaru region) performances and storytelling sessions in the Tsugaru dialect. JR Rail Passes can be used for the Gono Line and all Joyful Trains if reserved in advance.

Sagano Scenic Railway

At only 4.35 miles long and a mere 25 minutes one-way, the Sagano Scenic Railway is the shortest route on the list, but possibly the most romantic. Running from the Torokko Saga Station in Arashiyama—the second-most important sightseeing district in Kyoto—to the town of Kameoka, the train snakes leisurely through the mountains along the Hozugawa River, offering front row seats to the surrounding wooded ravine. Each train is outfitted with retro-nostalgic touches like wooden benches—a nod to its original debut back in 1899—and made up of one fully open cabin and four enclosed cars (with windows that can be opened). It is particularly popular during the autumn foliage season as the leaves along the way change their colors, but spring passengers can enjoy pretty views too, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The line doesn’t operate from late December through February. Tickets start at $6 (880 yen), and can be purchased at Torokko Saga Station or at JR ticket offices in the Kansai Region.

Tokaido Shinkansen Line

No trip to Japan would be complete without getting a glimpse of Mount Fuji. The Tokaido Shinkansen Line (a bullet train) is the easiest way to achieve that. Connecting Tokyo and Kyoto in around two hours and 20 minutes, the route passes the majestic mountain in both directions, delivering picture-perfect vistas of the country’s highest and most famous peak. Pick a seat on your right if you’re headed to Kyoto, or on your left if you’re going to the capital. Even better, reserve the window-side E row for the very best views. Plus, access to the Tokaido Shinkansen line is covered by the JR Pass.

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Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

Train Suite Shiki-shima

A hybrid electric/diesel deluxe sleeping train, the Train Suite Shiki-shima is one of the world’s most exclusive and expensive railroad rides in the world—so much so that passengers have to submit an online application to get on, and are chosen by a random draw. With interiors by industrial designer Ken Okuyama, known for his luxury car work with Ferrari, Maserati, and Porsche, the 10-cabin, 34-passenger service features a lavish east-meets-west aesthetic, (think Japanese seating and western style beds), floor-to-ceiling windows in some of the carriages, and a futuristic observatory car kitted out with sinuous white chairs and grass-green carpets. Rooms are over-the-top spacious, and categorized as suites, flats, and maisonettes.

Once you’re on board, you’ll be heading from Tokyo into Japan's far north , namely Tohoku and Hokkaido—wide-open regions boasting spectacular nature and enduring traditions.

Itineraries are either two or four days long, and include sightseeing stopovers and overnight hotel stays, as well as some seriously superb culinary experiences, from breakfast to dinner. New routes are scheduled to start from April 2022 onwards. Tickets start at $3,830 (555,000 yen) for single occupancy in an entry-level suite.

Twilight Express Mizukaze

One of Japan’s most luxurious trains, the 10-cabin Twilight Express Mizukaze (also referred to simply as Mizukaze) rides some of the most breathtaking routes on the western side of the country. Five different itineraries take passengers along the coastline of the Seto inland sea, making stops in Osaka , Setonaikai National Park, Miyajima, and the lesser-visited San'in region, depending which way you go. On board, passengers—a maximum of 34—can expect five-star service from the dining car to the six ‘rooms,’ the swankiest of which consists of an entire railcar that comes with its own tub (it’s aptly called ‘The Suite’). Tickets for it are quite hard to get, with a waitlist that can be over half a year, but snag yourself a seat, and you’ll be in for one of the most exclusive train journeys in the world. Tickets—only purchasable in Japan—start at $2,800 (400,000 yen)

Seven Stars

The luxury sleeper Seven Stars , which cruises around Kyushu island—Japan's southern and westernmost main island—is worth adding to your Japan bucket list if you’re ready to splurge. Launched in 2013, the 20-passenger, seven-cabin train is as fancy as it gets, with plush interiors across its 10 suites (all of which are built in maple, walnut, or teak wood), a fine dining restaurant run by Kyushu’s master chefs, and a lounge car that even has its own piano. The Seven Stars name refers to the region’s seven prefectures—Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Saga, Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima—which the train passes on two- and four-day circular itineraries, covering some 1,864 miles in total. Tickets are steep, but, on the plus side, include a series of activities that go beyond the train journey: sightseeing trips to mountain ranges, volcanoes, and traditional pottery villages, onsen experiences, and overnight stays at traditional (but still top-of-the-class) ryokan. Tickets start at $4,400 (650,000 yen) per person for a two-day trip, or $8,450 (1,250,000) per person for a four-day sojourn.

If you’re after something less pricey, Kyushu also has plenty of simpler sightseeing trains, like the Hisatsu Line, a slow, local railway line (currently suspended due to floods caused by heavy rains last July).

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How to plan a train journey around Japan in 2024

Feb 9, 2024 • 9 min read

On local trains in Japan, such as the Wakayama Electric Railway, you might be the only non-local on board © Shutterstock/george photo cm

 Japanese railway enthusiast John Walton shares advice on how to stretch your yen as far as possible on a train trip through Japan.

Whether you’re a train fanatic like me or not, exploring Japan by rail is a pleasure.

The country leads the way for the sheer variety of rail experiences. The network has ultramodern trains, vintage carriages, steam locomotives and every kind of rail runner in between – from slow-travel rural journeys to the fast Shinkansen bullet trains  that rocket between the country’s biggest cities. 

Anyone traveling to Japan will likely end up on a train at some point. But if you want to create a thorough train itinerary to see the best of the country, some advanced planning is necessary. Where to start? Which trains to take? Where to go? How much time will you need? Should you buy a Japan Rail Pass or not?

I’ve spent more than a decade visiting Japan, often multiple times a year. Traveling across this beautiful and fascinating country by train is one of my favorite things to do in the entire world. Here’s how to build your own Japan rail trip.

1. Define your must-do list 

Figure out how much time you have and which destinations are on your must-visit list, and build a route from there

As with any trip, what you can do will be determined by how much time you have and what  time of year  you visit. Japan is at its most delightful in spring and autumn as summers are very hot and humid everywhere south of Hokkaidō . Avoid national holiday periods like Golden Week (early May) and Obon (summer; usually July or August), when tickets and accommodation are scarce and many attractions close. If you want to do a lot of things that appeal to Japanese kids (amusement parks, anime or manga attractions, and so on), try to visit outside school holidays when they're packed.

Picking the “where” of your trip is entirely up to you and your interests. I'd recommend you think about a theme like visiting Japan’s 12 remaining original historic castles .  Or its best temples, shrines and Zen gardens. You might focus on dazzling big-city life, quiet rural trains that wind their way through the mountains, or a specific bit of Japanese popular culture like Pokémon, Studio Ghibli or Evangelion. Plotting out your stops on a map will help you build a route. 

2. Figure out where you want to start and finish 

Where you fly in and out of may influence your route

The easiest option for most international travelers is to fly to  Tokyo . The capital has two airports: Haneda Airport (HND), which is the closest to the city center, and Narita Airport (NRT), about an hour east of the city. Haneda is usually more convenient, though Narita is connected directly to Tokyo Station (and several others) by train. It’s a good option if you want to get out of the capital and on the rails straight away.

Other major international airports like Osaka Kansai (KIX), Nagoya ’s Chubu Centrair (NGO), Sapporo ’s New Chitose (CTS) and Fukuoka (FUK) are also great alternatives if you’re heading to their respective regions. An open-jaw itinerary – where you start in one city and leave from another – is a great way to maximize your time in Japan and is particularly suited to those who want to slow down and explore by train.

Still, chances are you’ll be starting and ending your trip in Tokyo. I usually try to build a few days at the beginning and end of my trips here to plan and do a few of the many amazing things that the capital has to offer .

3. Find the right pass for your journey

Figuring out your precise travel times could save you money

If you want to do more than just take a return trip between Tokyo and  Kyoto  the national Japan Rail Pass is great value. is Designed specifically for travelers, there are three versions of the pass, which you can use over consecutive days:

the seven-day pass costs ¥50,000 (around US$335);

the 14-day pass costs ¥80,000 (around US$540);

the 21-day pass costs ¥100,000 (around US$675).

Considering a one-way Shinkansen ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto is ¥13,080 (around US$90), these passes are a no-brainer for most travelers.

Another money-saving option is the regional passes but these can get complicated. I usually recommend them to visitors on longer trips or those who want to cover specific areas of Japan:

• On the westernmost island Kyūshū , JR offers passes in three- (¥20,000; around US$135), five- (¥22,500; around US$152) and seven-day (¥25,000; around US$169) versions;
• JR-East to the north of Tokyo offers the five-day Tohoku Area Pass for ¥30,000 (around US$202) and the five-day Nagano-Niigata Area Pass for ¥27,000 (around US$182);
• JR-West , covering the main island of Honshū west of Kyoto , offers a staggering and frankly confusing range of 10 passes for specific areas.

4. Choose how much time you want to actually be on a train

Separate passes for different legs can make things easier

Though the value of a rail pass increases the more you use it, it will constitute a big chunk of your travel budget. For me, the pass will typically cost about a third of the total outlay of a trip. Even as an avid rail fan whose idea of a great time includes whizzing around the country on a Shinkansen at 200mph (320km/h) or relaxing on a fancy Limited Express, I don't usually do more than a week of rail travel without settling down in one place for a few days. The same goes when I'm taking a cultural Joyful Train  trip or a countryside trundle on tiny rural trains.

As a rule, if I’m spending two weeks in Japan, I’ll book a seven-day Japan Rail Pass that begins a few days after I arrive in Tokyo and ends a few days before my flight home. If I’m here for three weeks, I might buy two separate seven-day passes, with some free time for a cultural city like Kyoto, Nara , or Kanazawa in between. Sometimes, I'll stick with one rail pass plus a one-way trip that takes me back to Tokyo.

5. Plan your weekend travel early

Some of the most delightful trains run on weekends

Plan your weekends first. This is when cultural excursion trains known as Joyful Trains run. They are themed trains covering specific routes (think Hello Kitty or Pokémon).  Both the JR-East and JR Kyūshū regions have lots of Joyful Trains, many made especially for sightseeing. They cover some incredible terrain. 

I highly recommend JR-East’s SL (for “steam locomotive”) Gunma Yokokawa , which chugs from Takasaki to the Usui Tōge Railway Village at Yokokawa. JR Kyūshū’s Two Stars 4047 in the Nagasaki area follows the beautiful seaside route of the old main line. I also love JR-East’s High Rail 1375 , which travels along Japan’s highest railway line and also offers a nighttime stargazing trip.

Although it's best to book via the automated ticket machines, these usually require some previous experience with Japanese train travel. Newbies should book their trips at any JR Service Center or ticket counter (the midori no madoguchi , with a green symbol of a person relaxing on a seat).

6. Plan scenic trips and other highlights during the week

Hit popular attractions in the quieter mid-week period

Once you’ve planned your weekend trip(s), think about how else you want to fill in your journey in between your starting point, weekend Joyful Trains and your endpoint. With fewer tourists, weekdays are a great time to visit popular attractions.

You’ll also find reduced midweek rates at traditional Japanese resort hotels, ryokan , minshuku and other accommodations. Take a couple of days out of your schedule to take a soak at a mountain hot-spring onsen . It's a wonderfully Japanese way to relax.

Weekdays are made for longer train trips into Japan’s beautiful countryside, including on the long-distance Limited Express trains (slower than the Shinkansen, yet faster than local trains) or the wonderfully charming rural local trains that crisscross Japan’s countryside. Many have beautiful views; some of my favorites are JR Central’s Hida from Nagoya to Toyama through the Japanese Alps  and JR East’s Tsugaru from Aomori to Akita across the Tsugaru plain – a snowy must-do in winter.

I also love JR Hokkaido ’s Okhotsk/Taisetsu from Sapporo/Asahikawa to Abashiri, which offers a peek into this remote island, and JR Shikoku ’s Shiokaze from Okayama to Matsuyama, across the incredible Great Seto Bridge and beautiful countryside. Local trains are beautiful, too. JR-operated and private railway lines often trundle through areas of Japan without any other kind of rail service. Chances are you’ll be the only non-local in a small railcar where the other passengers are schoolchildren, grandmothers and folk going about their daily business.

JR Hokkaido’s Senmo Line between Abashiri and Kushiro runs through the Kushiro marshlands, where Japanese red-crowned cranes make their home . The Shinano Railway in Nagano Prefecture uses delightful vintage 115 series trains along the old Shinetsu Main Line. JR East’s Yamada Line from Morioka to Miyako is a springing-off point for the gorgeous Sanriku Coast , while the Wakayama Electric Railway south of Osaka is famed for its stationmaster cats at Kishi. And you can’t go wrong on almost any local line in Kyūshū, particularly in the area around Nagasaki.

If I could do it all again…

I’d eat more ekiben , the local bento-box lunches available at many stations that are made to take on board. Tiny rural stations may have a soba, ramen or udon noodle store or something similar in the waiting room – I’d eat more of that, too.

Bring a few essential things with you: a two-pin US-style fast phone charger, a power bank (as not all trains have power points) and a reusable shopping bag for snacks and drinks. Use the layers strategy when you pack – Japanese trains are much warmer than many other countries in cool weather and the air conditioning may not be as frosty as you’d expect elsewhere.

Take nothing bigger than a medium carry-on on the train, and use Japan’s excellent luggage delivery services like Kuroneko Yamato to deliver your suitcases between cities rather than toting them with you. This is especially important in peak hours or on non-express trains. Note: on some Shinkansen, you must make a baggage reservation if your luggage is more than 160 linear cm (length x width x height).

This article was first published March 2023 and updated February 2024

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8 Incredible Scenic Train Journeys in Japan

Few train systems are as magnificent as those of Japan . They are famous for their efficiency and amazing use of advanced technology to create some of the fastest trains in the world. However, Japanese trains aren’t all about just getting from point A to point B. Some Japanese trains offer a great opportunity to see the beauty and wonder of the legendary Japanese scenery .

Because so many of the sights of Japan are rugged and far away from urban centers, this is a great opportunity to see them in comfort and without having to navigate the roads of another country on your own. Here are the best scenic train journeys in Japan:

1. Kurobe Gorge Railway

Kurobe Gorge is a treasure of the Northern Japanese Alps . It is one of the deepest gorges in Japan. Rather than just rigged rock cut by the Kurobe River, it is heavily forested.

It is nearly untouched, so any visit here feels like visiting another world. Driving or hiking can be difficult, but the Kurobe Gorge Railway is a great alternative. It is an 80-minute ride over more than 20 bridges and through more than 40 tunnels.

You can see some of the best panoramic views of the gorge while on the train. The train also makes a few stops that offer passengers the chance to explore.

The trains operate seasonally from the middle of April to November. Most cars are open with 4-person bench seats, but many also offer a few enclosed cars with more comfortable seating. 

Their most crowded time is in autumn when the gorge is ablaze with brilliant fall colors . Tickets are bought with assigned car numbers, but seats are not assigned.

The train departs from Unazuki Station , located in Unazuki Onsen , which is a small hot spring town near the entrance to Kurobe Gorge.

This is a good place to stay before and after your train ride. Tickets cost 1980 yen one way, though upgrades to more comfortable seats can be purchased for 350 to 530 yen. For timetable and fares, click here .

2. Sagano Scenic Railway

This charming railway runs along the Hozugawa River between Arashiyama and Kameoka. The trains are old-fashioned and romantic, while the forested mountain scenery rolls away at a fairly slow pace. It’s a very romantic journey, especially in fall, when the trees change color.

Every train consists of four enclosed cars with windows that can be opened. You should buy tickets early to be sure you get a seat.

According to many expert travelers, this scenic rail ride is at its best in spring and autumn season.  

The lien starts at Torokko Saga Station and terminates at Torokko Kameoka Station , where visitors can opt to ride back on the train or take another more modern train to their final destination.

Tickets cost 630 yen one way. Read these important FAQ before planning a trip to enjoy a ride.

3. Hakone Tozan Railway

This is Japan’s oldest mountain railway. The small trains go through many tunnels and over many bridges, making their way along switchbacks, with a few stops along the way.

There are two sections, the lower section from Odawara to Hakone-Yumoto, which is less scenic, and the incredible upper section from Hakone-Yumoto to Gora.

The upper section is a 35-minute ride. It is considered to be at its best from June to July (rainy season) when thousands of hydrangea flowers are in bloom, but it is lovely at any time of year as well. For example, you can see beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring and autumn colors in the fall . 

The train starts at Odawara. The fee from Odawara to Gora is 410 yen one way and the entire line is covered by the Hakone Free Pass. Many visitors take a cable car from Gora to Lake Ashi for another scenic experience.

4. Oigawa Railway

These classic steam locomotives run all through Shizuoka Prefecture . Some of the trains on the Ikawa Line are so small that you may risk hitting your head on their ceiling. This is a chance to see how people traveled in years gone by as well as some amazing scenery.

The trains travel along the Oi River , offering views of lovely gorges and forested mountainsides. The covered cars all have windows that can be opened.

If you’re traveling with small children, one of the locomotives on the line is a reproduction of Thomas and another is a reproduction of his friend James the Red Engine the Tank Engine, which is sure to be a hit.

This railway starts at JR Kanaya Station . Tickets are 800 yen for adults and 400 yen for children. All seats are reserved in advance, so be sure to get your tickets early. Visit Oigawa Railway official website to get more info about the ride.

5. Tadami Line

For a look at rustic Japan, the JR Tadami Line is a great choice. It runs from Aizu-Wakamatsu Station and through the mountains of Fukushima Prefecture to Koide Station in Niigata Prefecture, offering some of the most famous views in the area.

These include the No. 1 Tadami River Bridge . The alpine scenery is especially excellent in winter when the mountains are covered in snow and the houses of the charming local towns have snow on their roofs. 

Tadami River is one of the beautiful rivers in Japan, offering amazing views throughout the year in each season. When the train would pass through the bridge, you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings from the train window. 

In February , many of the towns that the train stops at host amazing snow festivals. Please note The Tadami Line is operated by East Japan Railway Company . 

6. Tokaido Shinkansen

There are many ways to get excellent views of Mt. Fuji , but the Tokaido Shinkansen is one of the best. If you want to enjoy a shinkansen ride in Japan , then take this train line into your consideration. 

While many think you can only see the mountain from the right side of the train bound for Osaka, but the truth is that you can also get some views from the left side of the train.

You will be able to see Mt. Fuji at the part of the route between Shinagawa and Lake Hamana just beyond Hamamatsu. With good weather, you may be able to catch a glimpse near Kanagawa Prefecture’s Hiratsuka. 

Hiratsuka city has some very good Mt. Fuji viewing spots and travelers can get a majestic view of the mountain from the train window while the train passes through Hiratsuka’s Tokaido Shinkansen line.

When the train departs Mishima Station, you will see the highlight of the trip as Mt. Fuji appears shortly after.

7. Hisatsu Line

This steam engine line runs between Yatsushiro City and JR Hayato Station. It runs along the Yatake-koe and Kuma River , offering some excellent views.

Many of the stations and facilities are in the style of the Meiji era , giving you a window back in time. It’s an excellent, leisurely ride that offers you a great chance to see a lot of the Kumamoto Prefecture and Kagoshima Prefecture in comfort.

Experiencing a rail ride along this line is a must-do thing when you plan on visiting either Kumamoto or Kagoshima Prefecture.  

8. Sekihoku Main Line

Hokkaido is one of the most visited destinations in Japan, especially for foodies and nature fanatics who like to hike, hit the ski slopes, and enjoy the outdoors. 

Operated by Hokkaido Railway Company , Sekihoku Main Line runs between Shin-Asahikawa Station in Asahikawa, the second largest city in Hokkaido and Abashiri Station in Abashiri. The entire train route is blessed by nature and you can enjoy stunning landscapes until the last stop in Abashiri. 

The route from Kamikawa Station to Maruseppu Station is one of the top autumn leaves viewing spots by a train ride in northern Japan . This is possibly the best scenic rail ride that reveals Hokkaido’s unspoiled autumn nature. Mountains, rivers, deciduous trees and beautiful countryside will make your journey a great adventure.  

The best time to take a ride along this line is between early-October and mid-October. Watch this video and decide if you should try this fun ride or not.

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Hot spring bath with great views of Mt. Fuji!!!!

Most Scenic Train Rides in Japan

Stefanie Akkerman moved from the Netherlands to Japan in 2013 with her Japanese husband and son. She jumped into the niche of Dutch tour guiding in Tokyo and Kamakura in 2015 and occasionally writes articles about all the great sights and activities Japan has to offer. She loves (Japanese) food, and to work that all off she goes diving, snorkeling, cycling, or hiking.

This post may contain some affiliate links. When you click through and make a purchase we may receive some commission, at no extra cost to you .

One of the best ways to enjoy amazing scenery in Japan is to take one of its many scenic train rides. Sitting comfortably while watching a changing landscape passing by is a wonderful immersion in the natural beauty that Japan has to offer . Most trains on the rides below have extra large windows so you don’t have to miss a thing, and some of them even have open-air carriages. Let’s dive into the world of scenic train rides in Japan!

Japan Rail Pass

1. sagano scenic railway (kyoto), 2. tadami line (fukushima), 3. hisatsu line (kumamoto), 4. minami aso railway (kyushu), 5. gono line (akita, aomori), 6. kurobe gorge railway (toyama), 7. oigawa railway (shizuoka), 8. senmo line (hokkaido), 9. mount fuji from the shinkansen, 10. toden arakawa line (tokyo), japan wonder travel tours , other articles you might enjoy.

When travelling in Japan, international tourists can purchase a Japan Rail Pass also known as JR Pass . With the JR Pass, you can hop-on-and-off most of the public transportation lines operated by the nationwide Japan Rail Group. The multi-use tickets includes use of the local JR trains, most of the Shinkansen trains, JR operated buses and even the JR-WEST Miyajima ferry is covered. Some of the scenic train rides below are included in the JR Pass, so before getting your ticket make sure to check if the JR Pass covers the ride too.

Are you going to be in Kyoto during the autumn? Then you can’t miss the Sagano Scenic Railway that runs between Arashiyama and Kameoka. The environment is decked out in beautiful reds and oranges during the fall foliage season between late November and early December, making Arashiyama one of the best places to see the beautiful autumn leaves . The delightful old-fashioned train rides at a leisurely pace through the mountains alongside the river, giving first-class seats to the natural spectacle in the forested ravine. One of the cars is open, and in the other cars windows can be opened to enjoy a fresh breeze of autumn air. 

The ride is most popular during autumn and is closed during winter, but in the spring it reopens again to take passengers for a ride past the cherry blossoms . You can also take the ride in summer for a break of temple sightseeing amid some refreshing greenery.

Despite being operated by JR West, this railway is not covered by the JR Pass. Check Sagano Scenic Railway for pricing, schedules and how to make a reservation (recommended in autumn and sakura season).

While Fukushima prefecture is definitely off-the-beaten-path for most tourists, you will be rewarded with incredible natural beauty if you make the trek to the prefecture hundreds of km north of Tokyo . The Tadami Line , operated by JR East, connects samurai city Aizu-Wakamatsu with the Oku-Aizu countryside. Besides enjoying the scenery passing by the train window, you can visit the spots of interest along the route by hopping on and off the train.

So what should you not miss when you ride the Tadami Line? In Aizu-Wakamatsu you won’t want to skip Tsurugajo Castle if you are interested in Japanese history. In Yanaizu the picturesque cliff edge-positioned Enzoji temple is worth a stop. You will also want to get off at Aizu-Nishikata station to see the best view of the Tadami Bridge. Along the Tadami River there are various bridges and viewpoints, but the iconic No. 1 Tadami River Bridge Viewpoint offers one of the best photo spots and is the easiest to reach by public transportation. Lastly, in Kaneyama there is a special carbonated onsen that allegedly can work wonders on your blood pressure and circulation issues.

The Tadami Line is covered by the JR Rail Pass.

Fukushima is the third biggest prefecture in Japan, and there is so much to explore. However the sad truth is that most people hear the word “Fukushima” and immediately think of the 2011 earthquake and disaster. The affected areas have come so far in the reconstruction process since the disaster. If you want to see the area, learn all about what happened in 2011, and even enter the Nuclear Power Plant, you should check out our 2-Day Fukushima Tour !

Kyushu is a volcanically active island that is blessed with lush nature as a result of it. The third largest island of Japan has a lot of different scenery to offer and Kyushu is a must visit when travelling in Japan . On the Hisatsu Line that runs right through the inland between Yatsushiro and Hitoyoshi you can see much of that natural beauty as you rush past the green slopes dotted with small villages! You can also see a rapid river on the way where many water sports lovers go to raft.

On the weekends and holidays between March and November you can also ride SL Hitoyoshi, Kyushu’s only steam driven train! The holiday sightseeing train operates only during the summer months and makes one round trip per day. Riding the SL Hitoyoshi is extremely popular and ticket must be reserved well in advance.

The Hisatsu Line is covered by the JR Rail Pass.

Mount Aso is one of Kyushu’s most famous landmarks. The beautifully-shaped still active volcano is surrounded by large plains of waving grass and you can often see plumes of smoke coming from its crater. Minami Aso Railway operates a trolley train called ‘yuusuge’ that lets you take in the sights around Mount Aso. You can feel the wind in your hair as the cute train takes you for a round in one of Japan’s greenest areas.

It is operated on weekends and national holidays off season, and it rides every day in the peak season. One ride lasts around 25 minutes, and it runs between Nakamatsu station and Takamori station.

Please check Minami Aso Railway for pricing and schedules

Located in one of Honshu’s (Japan’s main island) northernmost corners, the JR Gono line follows the coastline of Aomori and Akita . Depending on which season you ride, you can see the beautiful rugged coast either surrounded with green trees or a snowy landscape. It runs between Higashi-Noshiro and Kawabe station, and some other train station that are among the coolest train stations of Japan , you will pass through the Shirakami Sanchi World Heritage Property. You can also see characteristic rice paddies along the way and if you time it right, a fiery sunset.

If you really want to enjoy the ride, you can use the Resort Shirakami train , which, as its name suggests, lets you savor the scenery in a more luxurious way. Live traditional music is played while you can take in the surroundings through large windows.

The JR Gono line is covered the JR Rail Pass. Check JR East for more information and schedules.

Tucked away in the remote Toyama Prefecture, the Kurobe Gorge Railway takes you past some real hidden gems. If you like onsen hot springs, this is an especially good scenic ride to check out. A nice detail is that many of the onsen are outdoor, so you can enjoy the fresh air while you soak. The train line was originally built to aid the construction of the Kurobe Dam , but has become an attraction itself too. Each station offer offers various attractions, like observation decks, souvenir shops, hiking trails and of course onsen!

Running from Unazuki to Keyakidaira station, the train ride itself takes you through a ravine with steep cliffs covered with forests. The journey takes around 80 minutes and includes two additional stops where you can get off to enjoy the area. Only operating from mid April to November, it is the fall season which is the best. Boasting open as well as closed cars, you can choose how you want to enjoy the ride. One little insiders’ tip: sit on the right side of the train for the best views!

Please check Kurotetu for current pricing and schedules.

The Oigawa Railway, also known as Daitetsu, is located in Shizuoka, a naturally-blessed prefecture that’s famous for its tea plantations and, of course, Mount Fuji . But lovers of trains will know the area for its original 1930s old-fashioned steam locomotives. They run year-round on the Oigawa Main Line between Shin-Kanaya and Senzu , and Ikawa Line from Senzu to Ikawa. On both lines you can see some spectacular sights on the way, especially Okuoikojo Station, located on a cliff in the middle of the Oi River , is worth a visit. If you come in spring, you can see the cherry blossoms as well around Ieyama station. The fall season is amazing, too.

Besides the scenic environment of Okuoikojo station, there are many points of interest along the way that you can stop by on your way back. There are open air hot spring baths, Japan’s shortest tunnel, a 220m suspension bridge you can walk and the Southern Alps Abt Railway (very steep). Kids and other Thomas the Tank Engine fans will also love Oigawa Railway, as you can actually ride Thomas and his friends!

Please check Oigawa Railway for current pricing and schedules.

Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost island, which therefore has a temperate climate in summer and cold winters . The island boasts huge National Parks and other natural areas , and it’s a paradise for birders. The Senmo Line runs from Abashiri in the north straight through Hokkaido’s heartland to Kushiro in the south.

You will be treated to the amazing coastline of Abashiri, then go through Akan Mashu National Park with volcanic scenery and beautiful lakes, towards the Kushiro Marsh lands. In the winter, you can see a phenomenon called drift ice on Abashiri’s coast which can only be observed in very cold sea regions.

The JR Pass covers the Senmo Line.

Mount Fuji is one of Japan’s most famous icons , and spotting it at least once on your trip to Japan is quite essential. If you are taking the shinkansen between Tokyo and Kyoto , you’re in luck: you will pass by Mount Fuji around one hour after leaving Tokyo. If it is not too cloudy, you will usually see the majestic mountain from the window on your right (going in the direction of Kyoto) or on your left (going in the direction of Tokyo). In both cases, you’ll need to reserve seat E to see Mount Fuji from the Shinkansen .

Whether you take the fastest Nozomi (only line not covered by the JR Pass) or the slightly slower Hikari or Kodama doesn’t matter, all trains running on the Tokaido line will pass through Shizuoka and past Mount Fuji. They are nice enough to point out on the speaker system that you are passing Mount Fuji at the closest distance at that moment, so you definitely won’t miss it as the train rushes past. 

You don’t have to go far away from Tokyo to experience a scenic train ride in Japan. In fact, there is a beautiful ride that you can do in the city itself; the Toden Arakawa Line which runs between Waseda and Minowabashi in the northwestern part of the metropolis. The best part is that this train isn’t massively long like many commuter trains in Tokyo, but it is cute and very short with only two cars. You will see a whole different side of Tokyo while riding this streetcar, with narrow local alleyways and everyday life passing you by.

The nickname of this train is ‘ sakura tram ’, because if you ride it at the right time around late March or early April , you will have an amazing view of the blooming cherry blossoms along the route.

Pricing will depend on where you get off, but it is never more than a few hundred yen per person.

These are 10 of the most scenic train rides in Japan, but for the enthusiasts there are many more. There is so much to discover in Japan, that for many one trip to the land of the rising sun is not enough. Whether you are a first-timer or a repeater, we can help you make the most of your travel to Japan!

Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan.  From private walking tours to delicious Food and Drink tours, we can help you organize the best tours just for you! If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are visiting, our knowledgeable and friendly English speaking guides will happily take you to the best spots!  In addition, we can provide you with any assistance you may need for your upcoming trip to Japan, so please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need some help! 

▶ Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour Explore the most lively and popular fish market in Tokyo and try some of the local’s favorite street foods and sake with one of our friendly and knowledgeable English speaking guides! 

▶ Tokyo 1–Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (8 Hours) There’s no better way to explore an area than taking a tour with a knowledgeable local guide. You will have the chance to learn about the history and interesting background stories of Tokyo, as well as discover some hidden gems which can be hard to do without a guide.

▶ Mt. Fuji Day Trip Bus Tour from Tokyo Experience the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji by visiting the highlights of the area on our guided sightseeing bus tour! Departing from Shinjuku in central Tokyo, you can travel comfortably to all of the best spots in the area by bus.

▶ Kyoto Private Full Day Walking Tour On this full-day private tour of Kyoto, you will be able to see the highlights of Kyoto in just one day and at the same time develop a deeper understanding of both the culture of the area and Japan as a whole.

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The 10 Best Scenic Train Journeys In Japan

An excellent way to see the beauty of Japan’s countryside is by taking the train. Below are some of the best train routes to enjoy the country’s natural scenery. You can use your Japan Rail Pass to enjoy the views on many of these routes.

1. Hisatsu Line (Kumamoto Prefecture to Kagoshima Prefecture)

Connecting Yatsushiro Station in Kumamoto Prefecture and Hayato Station in Kagoshima Prefecture, the Hisatsu Line is a JR Kyushu railway line that spans 124.2 kilometers of some of the most impressive natural scenery in Japan. It goes over the Kuma River, passes through the mountains of Kirishima, and goes past the thriving forests of Kyushu.

2. Hanwa Line (Osaka Prefecture to Wakayama Prefecture)

A good way to enjoy the sakura season is via the Hanwa Line, which is a commuter train line operated by JR West. It extends 63.1 kilometers from Osaka’s Tennoji Station to Wakayama’s Wakayama Station. Along the way, passengers get the best seats to get a glimpse of the countless cherry trees in full bloom in the valleys and mountains on this part of the Kansai region, especially towards the end of March.

3. Sagano Scenic Railway (Kyoto)

A popular sightseeing train line in Kyoto, the Sagano Scenic Railway is a 7.3-kilometer-long line that showcases the natural beauty of this historic city. Featuring train cars with wooden benches and traditional designs, it runs at slower-than-usual speeds, as it follows the Hozugawa River, to allow the passengers to take in the magnificent scenery. In autumn, it is one of the most popular ways to view Kyoto’s autumn foliage. It is not covered by the JR Pass, so passengers must purchase reserved seat tickets.

4. Takayama Main Line (Gifu Prefecture)

A train line that connects Gifu and Toyama, Takayama Main Line is a JR West Company railway line that provides opportunities to enjoy the gorgeous landscapes of the prefecture. The journey from Gifu Station to Toyama Station takes you on a memorable sightseeing experience, as you pass by the impressive rugged mountains and valleys, and the pristine and immaculate rivers on the way to Toyama. In the summer months, the surroundings are refreshingly green, and in the winter season, they are snow-covered and look magical.

5. Kurobe Gorge Main Line (Toyama Prefecture)

Run by the private railway company Kurobe Gorge Railway, the Kurobe Gorge Main Line is a sightseeing train that runs along the Kurobe River, affording picture-worthy views of the mountains, cliffs, valleys, and ravines of the Northern Japan Alps. It covers a distance of 20 kilometers, from Unazuki Station to Keyakidaira Station, and takes about an hour and 20 minutes to complete a one-way trip, passing through dozens of tunnels and going over 20 bridges. It is only open for operation around the middle of April until the end of November, and is most popular in the autumn season, when the trees along the slopes have turned red and orange.

6. Gono line (Akita Prefecture to Aomori Prefecture)

The Gono Line, which is a railway line managed by the JR East, connects Akita Prefecture and Aomori Prefecture, two of Japan’s northernmost prefectures. Measuring 147.2 kilometers in length, it runs along the coast of the Sea of Japan, and offers beautiful views of the waters and the horizon. In the winter, it showcases a snow-covered scenery, including the breathtaking 1,625-meter tall Mount Iwaki.

7. Hakone Tozan Line (Kanagawa Prefecture)

The Hakone Tozan Line is a sightseeing train line owned by the Odakyu Group. It runs from Odawara Station in Odawara to Hakone-Yumoto Station in Hakone. Throughout the 15-kilometer-long ride, passengers are treated to the amazing sights of thick forested valleys and mountains, and colorful flowers by the tracks that are most especially stunning in June and July when in full bloom.

8. Oigawa Main Line (Shizuoka Prefecture)

Owned by private railway company Oigawa Railway, the Oigawa Main Line is a railway line that provides a connection between Kanaya Station in Shimada and Senzu Station in Kawanehon. It offers excellent views of the mountains, river, and countryside, and a chance to spot some interesting wildlife.

9. Sotobo Line (Chiba Prefecture)

Operated by the JR East Company, Sotobo Line is a railway line that links Chiba and Kamogawa. Starting in Chiba, it passes through some of the other cities in the prefecture, including Oami-Shirasato, Mobara, Isumi, and Katsuura, and offers scenic views of the rural countryside. As it runs along the coast and approaches Kamogawa, passengers can also enjoy fantastic views of the Pacific Ocean.

10. Chuo Main Line (Tokyo to Aichi Prefecture)

About 425 kilometers long, the Chuo Main Line is one of Japan’s major trunk railway lines. It links Tokyo and Nagoya, starting at Tokyo Station and ending at Nagoya Station. It passes through several scenic places, through the countrysides of Kanagawa, Yamanashi, Nagano, and Gifu. In spring and autumn, the sights that it affords are simply breathtaking — cherry blossoms in full bloom and autumn foliage that cover the hills, mountains, and fields.

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JRailPass.com » Japan Travel Blog » Best scenic rides and train views in Japan

Best scenic rides and train views in Japan

February 19, 2021

All over the world, scenic rail tours have been revived as an alternative to traditional sightseeing. Japan is no exception. A special term has even been coined in the Japanese language to describe those who are pleasantly obsessed with rail travel – densha otaku, literally translated “train nerd.”

If using your Japan Rail Pass to travel about the country, why not include some scenic views in your itinerary? There’s no better way to enhance the value of your travels than to make the journey, and not just the destination, part of the fun!

Most of the scenic trains listed below accept the JR Pass for all or part of the journey, and all offer a spectacular train view . Use this handy guide when planning your next train ride.

Mount Fuji from the Shinkansen

The Tokaido Shinkansen line is located in the Shizuoka Prefecture of the Kanto Region. The line passes between Tokyo and Kyoto , and right from your seat, you’ll be treated to the famous bullet train side view of Mount Fuji . Plan your seating according to your destination for the best viewing.

If you’re headed south to Nagoya or Kyoto, the mountain will appear to the right of the train; if headed north to Tokyo, the left. Access to the Tokaido Shinkansen line is completely covered by the JR Pass .

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Hisatsu Line in Kyushu

The Hisatsu Line is located in the Kumamoto Prefecture on the southern island of Kyushu. The island itself is full of attractions and beautiful scenery. The Hisatsu Line is known to pass through many areas that offer the best views.

The line services Kaiji Station; the word kaiji means “sea road,” hinting at the ocean views you’ll enjoy when traveling to Hitoyoshi City.  

Hanwa Line in Kansai

Located in Osaka Prefecture of the Kansai Region, the Hanwa Line runs from Osaka City to Wakayama . In late March, the Hanwa Line is ideal for viewing sakura cherry blossoms . You’ll be delighted to find your train view filled with pink or white blossoms, often swaying peacefully in the breeze along both sides of the railway.

Gono Line in North Honshu

This line takes you to the northernmost reaches of the island of Honshu, from Akita Prefecture to Aomori Prefecture . This northern exposure makes the Gono Line ideal for winter viewing of Japan scenery. The rail line often runs alongside the Sea of Japan, placing you between the inland snowscape and the “raging winter seas” common to northern Japan, complete with mystical natural rock formations.

Views from the Gono Line have been described as “some of the best coastal scenery of any railway in the world.” You’ll also be treated to views of the beautiful Mount Iwaki .

Several types of trains service the Gono Line. If you’re looking for a truly opulent experience, try the Resort Shirakami. This luxury train is often booked up well in advance; do not fear, however – the local trains afford the same spectacular views. Additional special trains run during the summer months. Some trains offer live musical performances.

Sagano Scenic Railway  in Kyoto

The Sagano Scenic Railway near Kyoto runs from Arashiyama to Kameoka. The train hugs the banks of the Hozugawa River and its accompanying ravine. The track is a mere seven kilometers in length, but the train operates at a purposeful, leisurely pace. The journey takes around 25 minutes one-way.

A trip on the Sagano Scenic Railway is enjoyable any time of the year, but it is especially popular during the autumn for koyo , viewing the colorful fall foliage .

Takayama Main Line

This line runs from Gifu City through beautiful countryside to Toyama City, passing through two prefectures. Your views will include lush mountains snaked with rivers. In the distance, you may catch glimpses of two of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains , Mount Hotaka and Mount Yarigadake, each towering nearly 10,500 feet (over 3,100 meters).

In winter, the mountains take on a different appearance as they don’t drift of snow. The journey will also take you through the town of Takayama , after which the line is named.

Kurobe Gorge Railway in the Japan Alps

This train line was originally constructed to aid in the building of the Kurobe Dam. Converted to a sightseeing passenger train, travelers will enjoy an 80-minute ride spanning 20 kilometers through the Japan Alps . The railway is unique in its condensed usage of more than 40 tunnels and 20 bridges. Views include a forested ravine, a gurgling river, and majestic mountains.

Read more : Kurobe Gorge travel guide

No matter which train services you choose for your Japan Rail tour, you will certainly not be disappointed. Seeing Japan by train is a great way to enjoy an authentic Japanese experience.

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I am looking for the link for the Bijin Akita train line that serves food. I need to know the schedule so that I can plan my trip. I think the line starts at Kakunodate Station. Can anyone provide me with the website that has this information.

We just did the Tadami line in winter And we were stunned by the beauty of the 77 min trainride from Koide station to Tadami. The line continues but because of construction Works a big part by buss. However i can highly recommend this one specially in winter.

The Gono line is a very good section, not just because of the scenery, but also the remoteness of the line from the rest of Japan. Even with a five hour ride (Aomori-Akita) it doesn’t makes for an especially long trip. The planned stops along the way for the resort trains is a nice touch. The Takayama line is also a good route covering Toyama to Takayama to Nagoya allowing a stopover to enjoy the mountains and avoid back-tracking. The valley and mountain scenery is some of my favorite in Japan

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Exploring Japan’s Opulent Rails: A Guide to the Most Luxurious Train Journeys in Japan

Hop onboard as we embark on a lavish adventure into the world of luxury trains in Japan! In this guide, we’ll look closer at luxury Japanese train travel and unveil the secrets behind how and why these indulgent escapes are so revered. From the panoramic views to world-class dining experiences, get ready to discover the pinnacle of rail travel sophistication in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Seven Stars in Kyushu: Japan’s Premier Luxury Sleeper Train Experience

Ranked as the top choice in Condé Nast Traveller’s Readers Choice Awards 2023 list for The Best Train Trips in the World, embarking aboard this Japanese luxury sleeper train requires more than simply purchasing your ticket and packing your bag. Competition for places can be intense, leading to a lottery system deciding who gets a cabin. Seven Stars in Kyushu provides a genuinely sumptuous voyage no matter what journey you choose. From the moment you step onboard this Japanese luxury train, a world of refined comfort and impeccable service will envelop you. Whether relaxing in your deluxe suite, enjoying a cocktail in the bar, enjoying tea in the tea room, or experiencing local delicacies in the Junpiter Dining Car, it’s plain to see why many consider Seven Star In Kyoshu Japan’s most luxurious train.

Spacia X: A Futuristic Journey on Japan’s Luxury Train Rails

With the Spacia X design language taking a nod from Edo culture, the fretwork and bamboo wickerwork detailing on this luxury train in Japan are a spectacular celebration of traditional arts and crafts. Spacia X offers a Japan luxury train journey that seamlessly merges the past with the future, whisking passengers through stunning countryside in unmatched style along the Tobu Railway Nikko Line. These Japan luxury train tours indulge their guests in gourmet delights as they take in the views from the vast panoramic windows. Spacia X is more than just a method of transport to get you from Asakusa to Nikko. It is Japan luxury train travel in its pomp.

Twilight Express Mizukaze: The Ultimate Japanese Luxury Sleeper Train Adventure

Can you picture yourself gliding through the picturesque countryside on a Japanese luxury sleeper train heading toward Kyoto or Shimonoseki? A Japan luxury train tour on the Twilight offers passengers an extraordinary journey. The carriages offer supremely plush interiors adorned with traditional motifs that make for a highly comfortable trip. Once onboard, exquisite Japanese gourmet meals are served to the highest standards. The Twilight Express Mizukaze furnishes those lucky enough to have a ticket a glimpse into a bygone era of travel romance. This is a high-end Japan luxury sleeper train where you’ll be able to indulge in an enchanting odyssey that epitomises the quality and comfort of the most luxurious train in Japan. 

Tohoku Emotion: Gourmet Dining on Japan’s Luxury Train Tour

Although far from being the most expensive train ride in Japan, this exquisitely designed train comprises three railcars: One car is an open kitchen, car number two contains private compartments, and the third is the fabulous dining area. Jump onboard this luxury train in Japan for the non-stop outbound journey from Hachinohe to Kuji or the return leg that stops at Taneseshikaigan, Same, and Hon-Hachinohe. Passengers enjoy magnificent views along the Sanriku Coast, and this luxury Japanese train slows down at the most scenic points of the journey to allow guests to absorb the region’s natural beauty. The incredible cuisine served includes a lunch course, afternoon tea, and desserts, depending on which journey is taken, all adding to how memorable this trip is.

Sunrise Seto & Sunrise Izumo: Overnight Elegance with Japan’s Sleeper Train Service

If you’re visiting Japan, luxury train holidays don’t get any more exciting than an overnight adventure on one of these trains. The Sunrise Seto and the Sunrise Izumo are long-distance luxury trains in Japan that are coupled when they leave Tokyo before separating at Okoyama and heading to Izumo and Takamatsu, respectively. Each Japanese luxury sleeper train comprises seven cars and represents the country’s last regularly scheduled sleeper service, providing passengers with onboard showers, vending machines, sleeping platforms, and stretch-out seats. Passengers on the inbound journey stop at Sannomiya and Osaka once Seto and Izumo have re-coupled. The last of a dying breed in Japan, luxury train journey experiences like this must be savoured before they disappear entirely!

Shiki-Shima Exclusive Luxury Train Travel Through Japan’s Scenic Beauty

The Shiki-Shima offers you the opportunity to take the most expensive train ride in Japan, and it’s well worth it as the journey gives passengers a unique insight into Japanese culture and the country’s breathtaking wild beauty. Highly sought after and habitually at capacity, this Japan sleeper train has a range of luxurious suites, including the two-floor Shiki-Shima Suite, complete with traditional furnishings and a bespoke cypress bathtub where you can rest and relax. The onboard dining room reaffirms Shiki-Shima’s reputation as Japan’s most luxurious train as guests are served stunning fine dining cuisine that exploits seasonal ingredients from each region. If your pockets are deep enough, Japan train luxury like this will be hard to beat.

Aru Ressha: A Gastronomic Voyage on Japan’s Luxury Train

The Aru Ressha is a luxury train in Japan that had its name revived back in 2015 after over one hundred in the shadows. This luxurious train operates between the port town of Hakata and Yufuin, offering travellers one round trip daily. Boasting two stunning rail cars that combine two and four-seat configurations, using maple wood in car one to private rooms in car two with darker, richer walnut, this luxury train in Japan is truly impressive. The dining experience during this Japan luxury train journey is second to none and directed by world-clas chef Yoshihiro Narisawa. His captivating menu offers passengers fish and meat dishes, sweets, and mini-sweets created using the finest products, treating diners to an unforgettable culinary escapade.

Saphir Odoriko: Coastal Elegance on Japan’s Luxury Train Route

If you’re exploring travel options, you’ll have to go a long way to find a better way than this to travel in Japan. Train luxury like this gives passengers access to authentic attractions, spectacular natural beauty, and places of historical and cultural significance. This exquisite luxury train in Japan is more than just a mode of transportation. It’s an immersive journey through Japanese history. Once onboard one of these Japan luxury train tours, travellers are treated to incredible gourmet delicacies in absolute comfort while watching the stunningly attractive landscapes slide by as they gaze through the panoramic windows of their carriage. With meticulously designed and finished interiors that provide a traditional Japanese aesthetic, this is one of the luxury trains in Japan that must be experienced.

36+3: A Unique Thank You from the Most Luxurious Train in Japan

A trip onboard this spectacularly finished black and gold luxury Japanese train is like stepping into a time capsule where the ultimate elegance combines with contemporary mastery. Passengers can recline in sizable, plush cabins trimmed with traditional Japanese craftsmanship while traversing the picturesque landscape. The onboard serenity offers luxury train travel in Japan at its finest. Exquisite dining, attentive service, and observation decks all add to the magnificence of a stay onboard during one of the five scheduled scenic routes. Depending on which day you travel, the 36+3 will allow you to see seven prefectures from a starting point of Fukuoka. 

THE MOST POPULAR QUESTIONS

Japan’s luxury train faqs, what makes japan’s luxury trains different from regular train services.

Luxury train travel in Japan surpasses regular rail services by some distance, even though the rail system in the country is well-known for being very comfortable, clean, and superbly efficient. In Japan, luxury train tours really do go above and beyond and offer passengers opulent accommodations, world-class dining, and exclusive onboard experiences such as luxury bathing facilities, observation decks, and two-storey suites. The Japanese prioritise comfort and quality to create a unique travel experience that combines incredible Japanese hospitality with breathtaking landscapes, making Japan’s most luxurious train journeys unforgettable.

How can I book a journey on one of Japan’s luxury sleeper trains?

Booking your place on luxury trains in Japan is a simple process. You can visit the train operator’s official website or contact several reputable travel agencies specialising in luxury train travel. Some services offer Japan luxury train holidays on a lottery system if they receive more booking applications than available spaces, so booking well before your travel date is advisable.

What are the price ranges for luxury train travel in Japan?

The cost of travelling on luxury trains in Japan can vary significantly, from as low as a couple of hundred dollars to over ten thousand dollars for the most expensive train ride in Japan. These figures are per person, depending on route, the journey duration, the level of luxury offered and subsequent amenities. These high-end trail journeys regularly feature incredibly lavish accommodations and fine gourmet dining experiences catering to the discerning traveller seeking unparalleled comfort and service. The luxury train Japan price variation is based on the selected package of the traveller, but there are often good deals to be had, although you’ll need to be quick as these tickets sell very quickly. 

Can I experience Michelin-star dining on Japan’s luxury trains?

The Japanese are renowned for their incredible dining experiences, which are carried through into Japan’s most luxurious train journeys. The Seven Stars in Kyushu and the Twilight Express Mizukaze offer their passengers Michelin-star dining. Both trains showcase a top-notch culinary adventure, with gourmet meals prepared by highly skilled chefs using fresh, regional ingredients. Fine dining is all part of the grand appeal of a Japan luxury train tour and helps to create a more memorable journey. 

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Epic Japan: Speed Trains & Street Food

Overall, I had a great time on this trip. Make sure you're prepared with a few ideas of what you want to eat and what to visit at each stop. The tour was good, but we occasionally spent too much or too little time in some areas. (I recommend spending a long time at Fushimi Inari and maybe like an hour at most for Kinkakuji.) Communication was a little lacking from our guide at times, but he did a good job of getting us from one location to the other. Would recommend to others.

Epic 13-Day Japan Budget Tour: Odyssey Across the Land of the Rising Sun

The guide was very nice, he does walk fast though. There is a LOT of walking. The only shoes you will need are either a good pair of trainers or dare I say I even almost wished I bought my hiking boots a couple of times. I like the fact he acknowledges some people will have different interests for things to do outside of included activities and different food budgets. Price is quite fair for the inclusions although yes you are paying a premium for the group tour, remember that, I found the price fairer than some other international companies I've used in the past who I won't name. You end up doing things you might not have thought of as well Dragon trip attracts a good crowd. There's a good mix of free time and included activities. I recommend you book some optional activities available in Kyoto in particular in advance though. It is in hostels so prepare for that unless you want your own room, which I suggest if possible. There was only one hostel I really was not a fan of at all (Kyoto), the rest of the accommodation was fantastic. The arcade was fun, bike riding was good. I liked the ninja/samurai tour. I think just the itinerary needs to be a bit clearer and giving everyone just an extra $10 on the pasmo card would have made a world of difference or just tell us to buy our own card once in osaka. Also might want to look into: Apparently the jr price has gone up recently and might outweigh booking jr trips separately. Book some extra days maybe in tokyo for yourself at the end if you can otherwise book a flight after 6.30pm on the last day since you may as well use jr to get back to tokyo. I kind of stuffed up my own planning with that one.

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

Essential Japan

Classic Japan

Highlights of Japan - 7 Days

The tour from start to finish was fantastic, we had an outstanding tour guide, Ali, who shared the history and culture of Japan adding so much to the tour. This tour guide wa exceptional, she was waiting for us at Osaka airport on arrival, and stayed with us until we passed through customs on departure. We have done many tours with many companies and Ali was clearly the best guide ever. The whole trip was relaxed, while informative and enjoyable. The pace was measured and allowed plenty of time to take in the days activities. We would take another tour for sure

Japan Discovery - 15 Days

Well planned, a lot to see, traditional but advanced, beautiful seenery, lovely people, fantastic food, loved organisation of tour, tour guide best ever.

Japan by Train: the Grand Tour

Fantastic trip with amazing guides. Had so much fun on this trip and saw so much. Japan is a great country and by going out of your comfort zone and exploring outside of the tour in your free time really adds to the guided elements of the tour.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Trail By Rail

Snow Monkey Explorer 4 star - 13 days

Beijing to Tokyo: The Great Wall & Mt Fuji

I had 2 tour combined. One tour of China with a total of 10 people and my tour guide Wenci was perfect! The second was of Japan with a total of 15 people and my tour guide Izumi was amazing. This was my first tour with G Adventures, and i was please with my choice and plan to use your Tour company again. I am a frequent traveler and have used a few different tour companies (Toucan Travel, Cosmos, Globus, etc.) and will continue to use them as well. Thank you for providing outstanding attention and service. It was a wonderful experience.

• Intl. Flights Included

Japan Railroad-Adventure: City Hopping in the Shinkansen

• Flights included
• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

I really enjoy the places that we are brought to but I wish we had a bit more time. For example when we were in Kyoto and was dropped off at the bamboo forest, shrine and monkey mountain. There was only enough time to do 1 thing. Other than that no complaints. Yuka was great at helping us with navigation too!

A well thought out itinerary. Packed in a lot in a relatively short time. The weather was colder and wetter than we had expected, nevertheless we managed well. The guide was exceptionally good. She was well informed, thorough and calm. However, Booking through TourRadar created a few problems. And because we booked through a third party, intrepid representatives we tried to speak to directly were pretty unhelpful. My previous experiences with Intrepid had always been good. I suspect the growth of the company has led to a deterioration of services. It might also explain why the "notes" were so poor. The directions to the hotel in Kyoto upon our arrival were confusing. The tour was good because the quite was good.

Japan: Land of the Rising Sun (from Tokyo to Kyoto)

This is a real excellent itinerary of Japan! So many beautiful shrines, temples and pagodas! Highly recommend staying in Tokyo before this tour to really experience the beautiful city! The accommodations were the only bad part about this tour. Personally, I thought that Intrepid could try and select newer hotels. The Ryokan experience was different but it was just that for 1 night. Also thought that at some destinations, the group should have had it's own mini bus rather than relying to much on public transit. We wasted a lot of time waiting for a bus at Kyoto...

What people love about Train & Rail Tours in Japan

The guide was the best

Japan was so fun! A looooooot of free time so do you researches about what to do and visit in every city. Would have love more ''organised'' activities (like a dinner every night with the group,...). Compared to other G Adventures tour I did in the past, I felt that this group was less stick together since there was only a few group activities.

Excellent trip. The guide was excellent and very helpful to all members of the group. Will definitely be going to Japan again, I hope with Dragon Trip.

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Tokyo - Hakone - Kyoto - Osaka - Hiroshima - Miyajima - Tokyo

I am using the ninja rail website to book.

7 replies to this topic

I suggest you don't use Rail Ninja to book tickets as they add quite a markup on the price.

https://www.odakyu.jp/english/romancecar/

Between Kyoto and Osaka , there are regular commuter trains where you just buy a ticket on the day. Same with Hiroshima to Miyajima and return.

For Hakone to Kyoto, take a local train to Odawara, just buying a ticket on the day. Then take a shinkansen Odawara-Kyoto. Osaka-Hiroshima and Hiroshima-Tokyo will be via shinkansen, and these can be booked on this JR website:

https://smart-ex.jp/en/index.php

Thank you very much for the suggestions. Going for the below:

2. Tokyo to Hakone: Romance car

3. Hakone free pass : For the circuit

4. Hakone to Kyoto : Separate booking. Bullet train from Odawara

5. Kyoto to Osaka : Kansai Pass ( 9th May)

6. Osaka explore 9th and 10th May

7. Osaka to Hiroshima : Kansai pass / 11th May

7. Hiroshima to Miyajima : Ferry is free it seems / 12th May

8. Hiroshima to Osaka : Kansai Pass /13th May

9. Osaka to Tokyo (same day as above) - Seprate booking / 13th May

JR West passes can be booked on their website.

https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/#area_railpass

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The Asahi Shimbun

Travel bug hits millions as Golden Week kicks off in Japan

THE ASAHI SHIMBUN

April 28, 2024 at 13:24 JST

Millions of Japanese started their Golden Week holidays by crowding train stations and airports as they headed to their holiday destinations and hometowns.

Overseas travel was out of the question for many people due to the weak yen.

Predictably, JR Tokyo Station was packed to the rafters as people started fleeing the capital April 27 to spend the holiday period with family members and friends.

Travel departures are expected to reach their peak on May 3, with return trips hitting their busiest on May 5 and 6, according to  Japan Railway group companies. The Nozomi trains on Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen lines will operate with all seats reserved until May 6.

The platform of the Hokuriku Shinkansen Line, which was extended in March from Kanazawa Station in Ishikawa Prefecture to Tsuruga Station in Fukui Prefecture, was crowded with families holding souvenir bags and other items.

Makiko Awano, 45, a self-employed woman from Tsukuba in Ibaraki Prefecture, and her 7-year-old son were off to visit her eldest son, who is attending senior high school in Kanazawa.

“We will visit a library and a museum, and enjoy delicious food,” she said, adding that she hoped her sightseeing trip would contribute to reconstruction efforts in areas devastated by the Jan. 1 earthquake.

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Inside world’s most luxurious train costing passengers £2,400 a night with panoramic windows and your very own butler

• Aiya Zhussupova , Foreign News Reporter
• Published : 12:50 ET, Apr 26 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

JAPAN is famed for its ultra-fast bullet trains - but this lavish train journey is one of its kind.

The Seven Stars is the first luxury sleeper train in the country which offers a unique experience like nowhere else.

Launched in 2013, the sleeper train became an instant hit with tickets selling out at lightning speed each year.

The demand is so high that passengers often have to enter a lottery for a berth on Japan’s very own Oriental Express.

And it is no wonder since the Seven Stars is more akin to a lush cruise ship than a regular train.

Passengers embark on a 1,800-mile journey from Hakata station in Fukuoka where they can wait for the "cruise train" in an exclusive lounge.

The Seven Stars adopted its name from its route which stops at seven prefectures of Kyushu island.

At each stop, the guests can explore the culture, cuisine and craftsmanship of the local area which is far cry from the modern Japan .

They are offered excursions to visit the island's nature and hot springs while learning its rich history on two-day itineraries.

But inside the train, there is still plenty to captivate the passengers' attention.

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The train has ten en-suite rooms and two deluxe suites which cost about £2,400 a night.

Every room is complete with its own shower, toilet and an air conditioner.

The deluxe suites can accommodate up to three people, and allows them to enjoy the scenic journey from the comfort of their room.

The wall-to-wall panoramic window opens up to the view of picturesque green mountains and sky-blue tranquil sea.

The world-class chefs prepare fresh 10-course meals for the especially hungry passengers which they can enjoy to the sounds of grand piano.

The bar which serves drinks day and night is also accompanied by live musical entertainment.

In the tea room, the guests are immersed in the best of Japan 's traditions as the interior is decorated with the customary tatami mats.

The car at the rear also features a large bay window to enjoy the scenery.

The website said: "Enjoy the starry sky that peers in from the panoramic windows with a glass of bliss in your hand and relax on the sofas to take in the stunning views that pass by."

Meanwhile, the UK boasts its own posh train where passengers can enjoy champagne and six course dinners.

The Northern Belle imitates the luxury of the 1930s while travelling through the UK countryside with departures from London Victoria.

Another fancy train journey in the UK is the four-night Welsh Dragon holiday, run by Steam Dreams Rail Co.

Travelling from London Paddington through  Wales , there is an onboard bar as well as a dining car with a specially made menu.

Starting from £995pp, the steam train trip is set to run this September.

A new luxury train service is also set to launch in Italy with an onboard cocktail bar, private cabins and other lavish touches.

La Dolce Vita Orient Express recreates the atmosphere of the 1960s Italy, all while passing through some of the country's most popular holiday hotspots.

Saudi Arabia doesn't lag behind its European counterparts and has revealed its latest ambitious plan for a luxury train cruise.

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The Middle Eastern nation is launching the first luxury train to be used in the kingdom after striking a £43million deal with Italian hospitality company Arsenale Group.

Dubbed "Dream of the Dessert", the new train will offer “luxury train cruise” journeys from the capital city of Riyadh to Qurayyat, which is situated close to the northern border with Jordan, the state media reports.

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• Explore Japan by Luxury Train

Ride the rails in style, from the comfort of your own deluxe carriage suite

In addition to the well-known Shinkansen bullet train, Japan’s luxury trains show the scenic side of Japan in real time.

The interiors come with all the trimmings—like private bathtubs and spacious living quarters. The ultra-smooth journey takes visitors through Japan’s rural heartlands while serving the finest cuisine and stopping at key sightseeing spots.

East Japan’s TRAIN SUITE SHIKI-SHIMA transports guests around Tohoku and South Hokkaido in carriages painted in the key of champagne-gold and offers an exquisite dining menu and comfortable suites.

The Twilight Express Mizukaze travels through Sanin and Sanyo regions, located in western Japan and home to some of the most stunning country landscapes. Dishes presented by top-class culinary artisans using ingredients from along the route are prepared on board.

Or experience Kyushu from the comfort of the Seven Stars in Kyushu luxury sleeper train. With sophisticated interiors combining Western and Japanese influences, the itinerary takes guests through the southern main island with plenty of sightseeing stops along the way.  

TRAIN SUITE SHIKI-SHIMA Twilight Express Mizukaze Cruise Train Seven Stars in Kyushu

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