Japan's 6 Most Exceptional Trains: Luxury, Design, and Exceptional Journeys

In Japan, trains are more than just a means of transport. They offer a true travel experience, blending gastronomy, design, and comfort. While the Shinkansen bullet trains fascinate with their speed, some Japanese trains captivate with their elegance, refinement, and unique routes. Board in the heart of Tokyo for the onsen of Nikko, or spend a few nights on one of the world's most luxurious trains.

Ayumi introduces you to six exceptional trains to discover in Japan:

Train Suite Shiki-Shima (TRAIN SUITE 四季島) – The jewel of northern Japan

Region: northern Japan (Tōhoku and southern Hokkaidō)

Type: Ultra-luxury cruise train

Special feature: Suites with double beds, private bathroom, panoramic carriages. Design by Ken Okuyama, known among other things for a Ferrari model.

The Shiki-Shima Suite Train is arguably the most luxurious train in Japan, if not the world. This veritable palace on rails traverses the northern countryside on multi-day journeys, offering top-notch service and cuisine crafted by Michelin-starred chefs.

The tickets are so coveted that reservations are made almost a year in advance, by lottery. An exceptional trip for only a select few.

Seven Stars in Kyushu (ななつ星 in 九州) – The icon of the Japanese hotel train

Region: from Kyoto to Yamaguchi

Type: Luxury cruise train

Special feature: Suites with bathroom, Art Deco design, panoramic carriages.

The Twilight Express Mizukaze, nicknamed the “fresh breeze,” is considered the Western counterpart to the Shiki-Shima. Its elegant design blends modernity and nostalgia, in an Art Deco style inspired by the grand trains of yesteryear.

On board, passengers enjoy fine cuisine while admiring the coastal scenery of the Sea of Japan and the mountains of Mount Daisen. A slow, contemplative, and unforgettable journey.

The Royal Express (ザ・ロイヤルエクスプレス) – The Blue Luxury of the Izu Peninsula

Region: Izu Peninsula, Hokkaidō,

Type: High-end tourist train

Special features: Navy blue and gold interior, piano on board, gourmet dishes prepared live.

The Royal Express evokes the luxury cruises of bygone eras, with its blue and gold décor and elegant atmosphere. It connects Yokohama to the Izu Peninsula, offering stunning views of the sea and surrounding hills. On its Hokkaido route, it departs from Sapporo and travels to Asahikawa in the island's center.

Less exclusive than hotel trains, it offers a simpler way to experience luxury rail travel. An ideal journey for travelers seeking comfort and romance.

Hinotori (ひのとり) – The train of the future between Osaka and Nagoya

Region: Osaka ⇄ Nagoya (Kintetsu Railway)

Type: Limited Express Train

Special features: 180° reclining “Executive” seats, quiet cabins, red and gold design, full connectivity.

The Hinotori, or “Phoenix,” redefines everyday train comfort. This ultra-modern Limited Express offers a refined interior, exceptional quietness, and seats worthy of airline business class.

It is not reserved for tourists: it is a train designed for regular travelers, a symbol of a Japan that focuses on comfort and technology even in its regional journeys.

Spacia X (スペーシアX) – The design of the future between Tokyo and Nikkō

Region: Tokyo ⇄ Kinugawa-onsen (Nikkō) – Tobu Railway

Type: Next-generation Limited Express

Special features: Lounge seating, private mini-suites, collaboration with Starbucks, luminous architecture.

Inaugurated in 2023, the Spacia X is the new star of Japanese railway design. Conceived as a rolling lounge, it combines elegance, modernity and accessibility.

It connects Tokyo to Nikkō, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in a calm and sophisticated atmosphere. With its lounge areas and mini-suites, it reinvents short-haul travel in Japan.

A few more trains to try:

Some trains, like the Shiki-Shima, offer truly exclusive experiences. Others, like the Hinotori, are designed to be accessible to everyone. Between these two extremes, there are other exceptional trains to discover:

• Garaku Kyōto Ōsaka (雅洛 京都・大阪) : linking Kyoto to Osaka, this train showcases traditional Japanese aesthetics and the refinement of Kansai.

• Aru Ressha (或る列車) : nicknamed “the dessert train”, it runs in Kyūshū and offers a menu entirely composed of pastries in a retro gold setting from the early 20th century.

• Saphir Odoriko (サフィール踊り子) : Connecting Tokyo to the Izu Peninsula, it offers panoramic seating and an elegant setting, perfect for a chic seaside getaway.