Their Trains Deserve More Credit
The world has long known Japan's railways for their excellent punctuality and advanced engineering—which is great, but it overshadows the sheer beauty of Japan's trains. Check out this ranking of Japan's most picturesque trains and journeys.
15. Ibusuki No Tamatebako: Kyushu's "Fairytale Train"
This black-and-white "fairytale train" along Kyushu's coastline is inspired by Japanese folklore and blends the nostalgia of classic designs with seaside tranquility. The interiors feature natural woodwork and windows that open up to magnificent ocean views, which, during peak seasons (spring and fall), bring unparalleled beauty to the journey.
Rsa, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
14. SL Hitoyoshi: Vintage Steam Charm In Kyushu
For nostalgia enthusiasts, SL Hitoyoshi's vintage steam engine is a dreamy throwback. Running along the scenic Kuma River, its polished retro interiors and glass observation windows combine with rhythmic chugging to make you feel like you're time-traveling.
Maeda Akihiko, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
14. SL Hitoyoshi: Vintage Steam Charm In Kyushu (Cont.)
The ride is a photographer's delight and the best time to capture it is during cherry blossom and autumn foliage. Operating between Kumamoto and Hitoyoshi, this steam train runs all through March to November. Ready to switch gears to enchanting scenic rail?
13. FruiTea Fukushima: A Sweet Ride Through Tohoku
Just imagine enjoying desserts made from fresh Tohoku fruits while rolling through scenic Fukushima. FruiTea is a dessert-themed train with wide windows that let you savor both the treats and the views. It's indulgence on rails for people with a particularly strong sweet tooth.
MaedaAkihiko, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
13. FruiTea Fukushima: A Sweet Ride Through Tohoku (Cont.)
The seasonal train serves exclusive regional sweets paired with seasonal scenery and often runs only on weekends. Spring blossoms and fall leaves make this a favorite among foodies. Moving on, let's leave behind seasonal desserts for royal decadence on the next train.
Ten-nen Gas, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
12. Aru Ressha: Kyushu's "Sweet Train"
Designed to resemble the original 1908 luxury cars, Aru Ressha offers a stylish journey from Oita to Kyushu, and it comes with lavish sweets from top patissiers. The "Sweet Train" has carefully curated seasonal menus with plush, intricate seats—it is literally and metaphorically a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds.
Rsa, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
11. Okuizumo Orochi: Open Car Relaxation In Shimane
The open-air Okuizumo Orochi train invites you to breathe in Shimane's mountain air while admiring remote valleys and rivers from open-sided carriages. It's a laid-back, immersive experience that lets you feel truly connected to the untouched surroundings—a perfect slow-travel journey.
MaedaAkihiko, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
10. Umisachi Yamasachi: Coastal Charms In Miyazaki
Umisachi Yamasachi is an experience enriched by local food and scenery, and it operates on weekends and holidays. For spring and autumn trips, seats fill up fast so plan ahead to get the views of a lifetime. The cedar wood and local decor interior creates an intimate and eco-friendly vibe.
ja:User:Sanjo, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
10. Umisachi Yamasachi: Coastal Charms In Miyazaki (Cont.)
Crafted with cedar from Miyazaki, the Umisachi Yamasachi train weaves along the Nichinan Coast and offers exceptional coastal views that feel like a warm welcome from nature herself. Let's now move to a train with Tokyo's old-school hustle and bustle.
Soramimi, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
9. Toden Arakawa Line: Tokyo's Streetcar Named Nostalgia
In bustling Tokyo, the Toden Arakawa Line provides a peaceful escape through the city's quieter neighborhoods. Journeying in this retro streetcar is a truly endearing experience with charming riders and nostalgic vibes, especially during spring and winter seasons. Sadly, it is also often overlooked.
Drivephotographer, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
8. Resort Shirakami: Coastal Tranquility On The Gono Line
Winding along the northern Gono Line, Resort Shirakami showcases serene ocean and mountain views, accompanied by live shamisen music. The panoramic windows immerse passengers in Tohoku's beauty, from turquoise coasts to lush forests—it's a visual treat.
Maeda Akihiko, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
8. Resort Shirakami: Coastal Tranquility On The Gono Line (Cont.)
Running year-round, Resort Shirakami adds classic cultural richness to its journey with music performances. It is busiest in summer and fall when views are most vibrant. Now, the next train on the list is famed for being Japan's best high-end sleeper experience.
Cup of tea, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
7. Twilight Express Mizukaze: Luxury On Rails
A luxury sleeper train, Twilight Express Mizukaze, and its chic interiors take you on a scenic journey along Japan's western coast and mountains. Panoramic windows, art deco vibes, gourmet dining, and private suites make this an all-encompassing travel experience. No wonder it sells out fast.
MaedaAkihiko, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
7. Twilight Express Mizukaze: Luxury On Rails (Cont.)
Seasonal landscapes add to this train's allure, but given the select routes between Osaka and Kyoto to Shimonoseki, it is relatively unknown to tourists. Moving from sleeper to scenic day trip, let's visit Kyushu's most regal railway gem with an award-winning route.
khws4v1, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
6. Seven Stars In Kyushu: Kyushu's Regal Ride
Seven Stars in Kyushu redefines everything you know and thought about train travel. The interiors blend Japanese and Western elegance. They offer a multi-day experience through Kyushu's landscapes, and each route and stop is curated for both luxury and cultural immersion.
Rsa, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
6. Seven Stars In Kyushu: Kyushu's Regal Ride (Cont.)
This exclusive train books out months in advance for its seasonal schedule. It's like a mini-vacation alongside Kyushu's stunning highlights—earning its title as Japan's grandest rail journey. We're now entering the top 5, and next up, there's the Romantic Train, which is perfect for a painting-like journey.
Sky ears, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
5. Sagano Scenic Railway: The "Romantic Train"
This slow-moving train offers a 25-minute escape into nature's artistry. Kyoto's Sagano Scenic Railway glides through the Hozugawa River gorge, with "gorge-ous" views (pun intended) of cherry blossoms in spring and autumnal foliage in fall. Every twist and turn reveals scenes straight out of an anime.
pang yu liu, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
4. Genbi Shinkansen: The Fastest Art Gallery
The Genbi Shinkansen on the Joetsu line turns high-speed travel into an unforgettable experience with rotating contemporary art exhibits. It only runs on weekends and holidays, by the way. Wide windows reveal rural Japan, while indoor displays captivate riders with curated pieces from Japan's top artists.
Fancy Free, CC BY-SA 2.5, Wikimedia Commons
4. Genbi Shinkansen: The Fastest Art Gallery (Cont.)
The Genbi Shinkansen is the world's fastest-moving art gallery and has unique seasonal installations to delight its passengers. Art lovers will definitely enjoy this one, but others should also not miss out on this chance to learn. Now, for something wildly fun and filled with childhood nostalgia.
Rebirth10, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
3. Pokémon With You Train: Family Fun In Tohoku
Dedicated to the joy of family travel, the Pokémon with You train delights kids and fans with Pikachu-themed decor. This train runs primarily in Tohoku on weekends and holidays, with special events in summer. Play areas and adorable details will make you feel like you're riding inside a Pokémon story.
Sukhoi37, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
2. Setsugekka: Niigata's Panoramic Train
Setsugekka is best enjoyed in its peak seasons, which are spring and fall. Its oversized windows showcase the Sea of Japan and nearby mountains in full panoramic splendor. The popularity of this train means that reservations are essential.
IRishikawa521, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2. Setsugekka: Niigata's Panoramic Train (Cont.)
Elegant interiors and locally inspired gourmet dining make every seat a perfect scenic lookout, to immerse yourself in Niigata's beauty with a side of indulgence. Now, for the #1 ultimate winner with the most iconic mountain views.
IRishikawa521, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
1. Mt. Fuji Shinkansen View: A Classic Ending
On clear days, the Tokaido Shinkansen reveals a breathtaking Mt. Fuji view between Tokyo and Osaka, giving you the quintessential Japanese sight at high speed. Whether you're just passing through or snapping photos, it's a moment of awe that defines any journey through Japan.
tansaisuketti, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
1. Mt. Fuji Shinkansen View: A Classic Ending (Cont.)
This is a train that is best experienced during Japan's winter, because the clear winter air enhances the view to the legendary Mount Fuji. It's a must for first-time visitors and locals alike, the perfect way to end our journey through Japan's most beautiful trains.
