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etSETOra
Read more: etSETOraAs its name implies, the Seto Inland Sea is the focus of this tourist train. Before that however, I savored the delicious sweets made from a local confectionery that I ordered beforehand. It was a leisurely way to watch the scenery pass from the curtained windows. After Takehara station, we arrive at the anticipated leg…
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West Express Ginga
Read more: West Express GingaOne of the few overnight trains in Japan and it has a different route depending on the season. Beyond going places that the Sunrise Express does not, it features a colorful interior and more comforts to elevate the journey. The six car train have multiple seat types aimed across all demographics from single travelers to…
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Sonic
Read more: SonicMy first ride on the Sonic was rather memorable. Thankfully I had the opportunity to enjoy more fully on a later trip. In addition to its colorful interior, the limited express train showcases various arts and crafts from the various regions it passes through. Beyond several communal spaces, open and enclosed, a circular glass alcove…
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Yakumo
Read more: YakumoThis may be one of the most underrated of all Japanese trains. The limited express train operates 15 roundtrips daily between Okayama and Izumoshi making it incredibly convenient. In addition to the typical Green and Ordinary seats, it stands out by offering a compartment seat that lies completely flat. While there are only four total,…
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Rokumon
Read more: RokumonI ran around the station frantically looking for the train before asking a staff. Apparently the train is so special it has its own separate building and platform next door. Once inside, ticket holders are granted a drink from the cafe on the first floor where most waited. It’s a shame because the formal lounge…
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52 Seats of Happiness
Read more: 52 Seats of HappinessDon’t let the unoriginal name fool you. This tourist train from Seibu lives up to its namesake and some more. Months before departure, I was treated to omotenashi during ticket purchase when I wrote to inform the railway that I was the only passenger even though I purchased three tickets to meet the seat requirement.…
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Saphir Odoriko
Read more: Saphir OdorikoThe Izu peninsula is a popular tourist destination and the gorgeous Saphir Odoriko can take you there in elegant comfort. The Premium Green car leads the train and offers abundant views in all directions. Working in tandem with the windows, the seat even rotates so you can enjoy the lovely scenery without moving your head.…
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Romancecar
Read more: RomancecarOdakyu operates several trains between Shinjuku and Hakone with the Romancecar being the most popular. Its foremost distinguishing feature is the large panoramic windows at the front. This makes the first row of seats extremely hard to get.
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Yufuin no Mori
Read more: Yufuin no MoriI knew something was wrong when I looked at my watch and it was two minutes after departure yet we were still at the station. By five minutes, they announced there was a delay then not long after, the train was canceled due to potential weather. While it was disappointing to have my journey cut…
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Aso Boy!
Read more: Aso Boy!If one seeks cuteness for their train journey, the Aso Boy will surely deliver. Kuro, the mascot, can be seen playing everywhere within and outside. From the lounge car with bench seating to the cafe car, he’s unavoidable. Speaking of the cafe, the space features a playroom for kids. There’s a small reading nook with…