This may be one of my favorite trains just for the sole reason that the stop at Oda station allows passengers to cross the rail tracks. With an interior decorated in stained glass windows that recall the days of yesteryear, the jazz music playing softly overhead completes the European aesthetic.

Ibusuki no Tamatebako bursts with personality. From its “two face” exterior to the jambalaya interior, there’s no shortage of entertainment in the barely one hour ride. Seating varies from swirling stools for kids to plush sofas where one may enjoy a book. Artwork adorn parts of a wall and an attendant pushes a cart offering…

One thing I love about Japanese trains is that they can do both. One can hop between Takeo Onsen and Nagasaki quickly via the Kamome or one can take a serene journey via the Two Stars. The name refers to the number of prefectures it passes through because it would be at least four stars…

Kanpachi Ichiroku is the newest tourist train introduced by JR Kyushu and the hype was worth the wait. Named after two rail contributors in the region, the former refers to the southbound trip from Hakata to Beppu while the latter is the reverse. The three car train is simply stunning dressed in bright colors and…