Japanese luxury train rides are top-notch in rail travel. These special trains turn ordinary trips into unforgettable journeys in a country that train lovers see as heaven. Japan now runs a few luxury cruise trains that offer a one-of-a-kind travel experience.
The Seven Stars in Kyushu tops the list. Condé Nast Traveler’s readers chose it as the world’s best train journey in 2023. The Shiki-Shima provides a cozier experience with 14 suites. These posh trains are changing the game for high-end travel in Japan. Prices start at ¥440,000 and go up to ¥1,150,000 per person, depending on the train and trip length. The hefty price tag matches what these luxury train tours offer.
You’ll see stunning landscapes and enjoy outstanding meals, especially when you travel on the Aru Ressha, which has made its name through its culinary excellence. Each luxury train experience opens a window to Japan’s beauty and culture, whether you’re heading from Tokyo to the Izu peninsula or visiting Kyushu’s seven prefectures.
1. Seven Stars in Kyushu
The Seven Stars in Kyushu shows what luxury train travel should be. This train creates an experience that matters more than the distance it covers. The name comes from Kyushu’s seven prefectures and seven celebrated features: nature, hot springs, power spots, history, cuisine, the train system, and friendly locals. This innovative Japanese luxury sleeper train sparked Japan’s luxury rail revival in 2013.
Seven Stars in Kyushu route & region
Travelers can choose between two distinct trips through Kyushu’s lush landscapes. The signature experience is the four-day, three-night “Kirishima Journey.” This detailed circuit takes guests through five prefectures. The adventure begins at Hakata Station in Fukuoka and includes these stops:
- Day 1: Hita in Oita Prefecture showcases traditional pottery villages where wooden clay-crushing devices create unique sounds
- Day 2: The route follows the Hisatsu Orange Railway with views of the azure East China Sea and Yatsushiro Sea
- Day 3: The Kitto Line connects Kagoshima and Miyazaki while offering views of the Kirishima mountain range
- Day 4: The return takes the Hohi Main Line past Mount Aso
A shorter two-day, one-night option explores northern Kyushu. This trip features scenic routes around Fukuoka, Oita, Mount Aso (Japan’s largest active volcano), and Nagasaki.
Seven Stars in Kyushu unique features and dining experience
The train’s royal wine-red exterior, described as “the color of ancient lacquer,” and gold emblem instantly reveal its luxury status. Eiji Mitooka’s magnificent interior design creates a fantasy of Meiji-era Japan. Each car features different wood panels and intricate kumiko woodwork lattices.
The train has seven cars: four suite cars, the “Blue Moon” lounge car, “Jupiter” dining car, and a salon car. Notable features include:
- 12 standard suites (108 square feet each) and 2 deluxe suites (up to 226 square feet)
- A Japanese-style tea room with tatami mats
- A bar that resembles outer space
- A gallery shop selling Kyushu crafts
The Jupiter Dining Car lifts Japanese luxury train dining to new heights. Top chefs prepare seasonal ingredients from Kyushu’s countryside and seas. Guests enjoy Japanese, French, local, and Italian cuisine throughout their trip. Signature dishes include kegani crab with grated eggplant and caviar, Chateubriand steak, and creative local-ingredient specialties.
Seven Stars in Kyushu booking & pricing
Getting a spot on this exclusive train needs planning and luck. The booking system works through a lottery, with applications opening in October for next year’s trips. The train stays fully booked through 2024.
A 2022 renovation focused on better service led to a 50-60% price increase. Current rates are:
| Journey | Price Range (per person) |
| 4-day/3-night | ¥855,000-¥1,700,000 ($8,400-$11,400) |
| 2-day/1-night | ¥402,000-¥500,000 ($3,500-$5,400) |
These all-inclusive fares cover meals, accommodations (including one night at a luxury ryokan for longer trips), and curated excursions. The world’s luxury travelers continue to seek this extraordinary experience on Japan’s most elite train, despite its premium price tag.
2. Train Suite Shiki-Shima
The Train Suite Shiki-Shima, launched by East Japan Railway Company (JR East) in May 2017, stands out as a futuristic marvel among Japan’s luxury trains. This exceptional train carries just 34 passengers per trip. The name “Shiki-shima” means “island of four seasons” and reflects its purpose to showcase Japan’s seasonal beauty through carefully planned rail trips.
Train Suite Shiki-Shima route & region
This premium Japanese luxury train runs several distinct routes through eastern Japan and Hokkaido. Each route highlights seasonal beauty. The train runs:
- 2-day/1-night trips (spring-autumn): The train travels from Ueno through scenic spots like Enzan and Obasute, and ends with a visit to Aizu-Wakamatsu
- 4-day/3-night trips (spring-autumn): A full route from Tokyo through Nikko, Hokkaido (including Hakodate, Noboribetsu, and Tōya), Aomori, and Hirosaki, coming back via Tsuruoka and Atsumi Onsen
- 3-day/2-night trips (winter): A northern route featuring Matsushima Bay, Aomori, Hirosaki, and Naruko-Onsen
Passengers start their trip at the exclusive Platform 13½ at Tokyo’s Ueno Station. They’re welcomed in a private lounge called “Prolog SHIKI-SHIMA”. The routes then take them through Japan’s varied landscapes from busy cities to peaceful natural settings.
Train Suite Shiki-Shima unique features and dining experience
Ken Okuyama, a renowned industrial designer, created this luxury train with its sophisticated champagne-gold exterior and futuristic elements. The train’s 10 cars include observation lounges at both ends with panoramic glass-enclosed views.
The train’s 17 suites come in different layouts, with the most luxurious being:
- One Shiki-shima Suite: A two-level maisonette with bedroom below and tatami living room above
- One Deluxe Suite: A single-level premium room
- Fifteen Standard Suites: Luxurious private rooms spread across five cars
The deluxe suites feature unique cypress bath tubs made from 300-year-old Kiso Valley trees—making this train possibly the only one worldwide with such luxury. Each suite comes with private shower and toilet facilities.
The dining car, “DINING Shiki-shima,” offers an outstanding culinary experience. Executive Chef Ikeuchi works with regional chefs who join at various stops. The menu changes as the train moves, using seasonal ingredients from eastern Japan and Hokkaido. This creates a food journey that matches the trip’s route. Guests enjoy their meals under soft chandelier light while the train’s rhythmic sounds add to the atmosphere.
Train Suite Shiki-Shima booking & pricing
Getting a spot on this exclusive Japanese luxury train means joining a lottery system. You can apply 6-8 months before departure dates. When requests exceed available spots (which happens often), winners are picked through a drawing.
Chosen guests fill out detailed forms about their priorities, diet restrictions, and special needs to create tailored experiences. Premium suite guests get free car service within 50km of Ueno Station.
Prices for 2025 trips range from ¥440,000 per person for a 2-day/1-night journey to ¥940,000 per person for a 4-day/3-night experience in standard suites with double occupancy. This flat rate covers all meals, drinks (including alcohol), and activities on and off the train.
3. Twilight Express Mizukaze
The Twilight Express Mizukaze draws inspiration from its predecessor to provide a luxurious experience through western Japan’s spectacular landscapes. This elegant “hotel on wheels” made its debut in June 2017 under JR West. The train stands out with its distinctive Mizukaze Green exterior and gold accents.
Twilight Express Mizukaze route & region
The Japanese luxury sleeper train gives travelers five distinct options throughout western Honshu:
- Sanyo Course (Outbound): A two-day journey from Kyoto and Osaka to Shimonoseki via the Sanyo Main Line, stopping at Miyajimaguchi and Onomichi
- Sanyo Course (Inbound): A return trip from Shimonoseki to Kyoto and Osaka, featuring Kurashiki and Iwakuni
- Sanin Course (Outbound): A coastal route from Osaka and Kyoto to Shimonoseki along the Sea of Japan, with stops at Kinosaki Onsen and Higashi-Hagi
- Sanin Course (Inbound): The return journey via Izumoshi and Tottori
- Sanin & Sanyo Course: A detailed three-day circular tour connecting both coastlines
This luxury Japanese train moves at a gentle pace so passengers can absorb western Japan’s natural beauty. The Sanin route reveals the rugged Sea of Japan coastline through Shimane, Tottori, and northern Kyoto. Passengers see stunning views of the Amarube Viaduct and Orii Coast. The Sanyo route follows the picturesque Seto Inland Sea, showcasing the island-dotted Setonaikai National Park and the impressive Akashi Kaikyo Bridge.
Twilight Express Mizukaze unique features and dining experience
Art deco and the golden age of rail travel inspire the train’s modern design. The ten-car configuration has an observation deck at each end that provides panoramic views of Japan’s changing landscapes. The Mizukaze welcomes just 34 guests to give an intimate, exclusive experience.
The train has 16 guest rooms in three categories:
- 1 exclusive “The Suite” that takes up an entire car with a private balcony and full-sized bathtub
- 13 Royal Twin rooms
- 2 Royal Single rooms
The dining experience stands at the heart of every Japanese luxury train journey on the Mizukaze. Guests can watch culinary artists at work in the open kitchen of the elegant Diner Pleiades car. The menus change with routes and seasons to highlight western Japan’s regional specialties. The fare covers all meals, including multi-course dinners, light lunches, and a choice of Japanese or Western-style breakfasts. Food columnist Takeshi Kadokami leads the dining program and works with famous chefs like Yoshihiro Murata of Kikunoi restaurant and Hajime Yoneda.
The Mizukaze experience goes beyond regular train travel with exclusive off-train excursions to places rarely open to visitors. Staff members join passengers during these activities, which fit perfectly into the train’s schedule.
Twilight Express Mizukaze booking & pricing
Travelers planning Japan luxury train tours in 2025 can expect to pay ¥335,000 per person for a 2-day/1-night journey. The 3-day/2-night detailed tour costs ¥660,000 per person, based on double occupancy in a Royal Twin room. The single-night journey in March 2025 comes with stays at The Mitsui Kyoto, a 5-star hotel, before and after the rail journey.
Travelers can book through the official Twilight Express Mizukaze website. Japanese travel companies and JR handle most reservations. The train’s popularity and exclusive nature mean you’ll need advance planning and a bit of luck to secure your spot on this exceptional Japanese luxury train experience.
4. Aru Ressha
The Aru Ressha, a “museum on wheels,” brings back the grandeur of early 1900s rail travel with its luxurious train experience. This gourmet trip through northern Kyushu’s scenic countryside builds on a 1906 vision. Back then, the Kyushu Railway ordered luxury passenger cars from the J.G. Brill Company in the US, but these cars never made it to service.
Aru Ressha route & region
The beautiful Kyudai rural line between Hakata/Fukuoka and the onsen village of Yufuin serves as the train’s main route. Passengers on this scenic trip pass several notable landmarks:
- Kora Taisha Shrine in Kurume City stands as one of Kyushu’s largest sanctuaries. This popular power spot helps ward off evil spirits
- Mount Yufu (1,584 meters), locals call it “Bungo Fuji.” Visitors can take horse-drawn carriage rides amid stunning natural views
This route lets international travelers see a side of rural Japan that’s rarely visible to outsiders.
Aru Ressha unique features and dining experience
Gold and black livery with elegant arabesque motifs make this luxury Japanese train stand out. Inside, passengers will find:
- Beautiful stained-glass windows with traditional openwork carved wood shapes
- Rich wooden interiors paired with refined floral motif fabrics
- Glass partitions showcase the train’s name and logo
- Display cases hold model trains that pay tribute to railroad enthusiast Nobutaro Hara
The train’s exceptional dining sets it apart. Chef Yoshihiro Narisawa, who owns NARISAWA restaurant in Tokyo, directs the culinary experience. His restaurant ranks among the world’s best for over ten years. The dining includes:
- Seasonal courses featuring fish, meat, and artisanal sweets
- Chef Narisawa picks ingredients from Kyushu’s best producers
- Kyushu artisans craft custom tableware just for the train
- All meals come with complimentary drinks
Aru Ressha booking & pricing
A seat on this luxury train costs ¥35,000 per person through March 2025. Prices rise to ¥36,000 from April 2025. Children aged 10-11 pay ¥30,000, increasing to ¥31,000 from April 2025.
Key booking details:
- KLOOK website handles all bookings as JR Kyushu’s official platform
- You must book for at least two people
- The train doesn’t allow children under 10
- Your ticket covers the train ride, course meal, and drinks
- The train offers reserved seating only and maintains a smoke-free environment
This day-trip luxury experience might not include overnight stays like sleeper trains, but it creates lasting memories through its gourmet dining and elegant atmosphere.
5. Saphir Odoriko
The Saphir Odoriko started its luxury day trips along Japan’s beautiful Izu Peninsula in March 2020. This elegant train gets its name from the French word for sapphire, reflecting the stunning blue colors of Izu’s ocean and sky.
Saphir Odoriko route & region
The luxury Japanese train runs daily between Tokyo and the scenic Izu Peninsula coast. Passengers can catch one round trip between Tokyo and Izukyu-Shimoda stations, with extra services running on weekends and during peak seasons. The scenic route includes stops at:
- Tokyo → Shinagawa → Yokohama → Atami → Ito → Izu-Kogen → Izu-Atagawa → Izu-Inatori → Kawazu → Izukyu-Shimoda
The train leaves Tokyo Station at 11:00 AM and reaches Atami by 12:17 PM, Ito at 12:36 PM, and pulls into Izukyu-Shimoda at 1:29 PM. The total trip takes about 2.5 hours. Passengers can see spectacular views of Mount Fuji against the blue sea, Sagami Bay, and the Pacific Ocean coastline.
Saphir Odoriko unique features and dining experience
Famous designer Ken Okuyama created the train’s eye-catching deep blue exterior that matches the surrounding ocean. The Saphir Odoriko provides first-class (Green Car) seating throughout, with different comfort levels:
- Car 1: Premium Green Car featuring black and gray colors that represent Izu’s volcanic landscape
- Cars 2-3: Green Car private compartments with skylights for 1-4 or 1-6 passengers
- Car 4: Cafeteria with open kitchen concept
- Cars 5-8: Standard Green Cars with light beige seats inspired by Izu’s sandy beaches
Car 4’s cafeteria serves carefully selected light meals and drinks. Chef Miyuki Igarashi from Atami’s Chinese restaurant “MIYU” oversees the menu. Popular items include special blend green tea, Atami shumai dumplings, and craft beers from Souun and Hansharo. Private compartment passengers receive their meals and drinks at their seats.
Saphir Odoriko booking & pricing
Prices change based on your chosen car and destination. Tokyo to Ito costs:
- Premium Green (Car 1): ¥8,470 per adult
- Green Car private compartment (Cars 2-3): ¥19,540-¥41,820 based on group size
- Standard Green Cars (Cars 5-8): ¥6,970 per adult
Tokyo to Izukyu-Shimoda prices:
- Premium Green: ¥12,660 per adult
- Green Car private compartment: ¥27,920-¥61,560 based on group size
- Standard Green Cars: ¥10,260 per adult
You can book tickets through Reserved Seat Ticket Vending Machines, JR Ticket Offices, or the JR-East Train Reservation website. Private compartments need in-person booking. Book early because seats fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
6. 36+3
The 36+3 luxury train takes passengers on five distinct daily trips around Kyushu’s entire island. JR Kyushu launched this sleek jet-black train with gold trim in 2020. The train’s name comes from Kyushu’s position as the world’s 36th largest island, while “+3” symbolizes surprise, impression, and happiness.
36+3 route & region
The train completes a full circuit of Kyushu over five days. Each day features a different route:
- Thursday: Hakata → Kumamoto → Kagoshima-Chuo (views of East China Sea)
- Friday: Kagoshima-Chuo → Miyazaki (views of Kinko Bay and Sakurajima volcano)
- Saturday: Miyazaki Airport → Oita → Beppu (along eastern coastline)
- Sunday: Oita/Beppu → Kokura → Hakata (northern coastline with views of Beppu Bay)
- Monday: Hakata → Sasebo → Hakata (through Saga Prefecture)
Each route has scheduled stops with local hospitality events. Passengers meet residents, taste regional specialties, and experience local culture. The Thursday route, to name just one example, stops at Tamana Station for 20 minutes where passengers can buy northern Kumamoto Prefecture’s specialty products.
36+3 unique features and dining experience
Six meticulously designed cars make up the train, accommodating 103 passengers. Cars 1-3 feature elegant private compartments for groups of different sizes. Premium materials, including Kumamoto Prefecture’s wood flooring and tatami mats, enhance these spaces. Car 3 has a bar counter serving drinks, snacks, and souvenirs.
Car 4 serves as a multi-purpose lounge. Various activities and workshops take place here during less scenic parts of the trip. Cars 5 and 6 provide regular Green Car seating with unique layouts—car 5 has a 2 seats/aisle/1 seat configuration, while car 6 features a 1 seat/aisle/2 seats arrangement.
The menu offers curry, udon, snacks like cookies and cheese, plus an extensive selection of alcohol that showcases Kyushu’s brewing culture.
36+3 booking & pricing
Basic fares in 2025 range from ¥12,000 to ¥30,000 per adult, depending on the route. These prices include meal plans. The Hakata to Kagoshima route’s basic fare with lunch costs ¥27,700. Green car and private compartments cost substantially more.
Passengers can book through several channels:
- Online via the JR Kyushu Rail Pass booking service (available from 5:30 to 23:00 JST)
- At any JR train station
- Through Klook for private compartments and meals
Bookings by phone require at least 10 days’ notice before departure. Internet reservations must be made at least 5 days ahead.
7. Royal Express
The Royal Express made its debut in 2017, setting itself apart from other luxury trains in Japan with a striking royal-blue exterior and gold stripe. This elegant train takes travelers on remarkable trips through Japan’s most scenic regions. Passengers can choose between day trips and multi-night adventures.
Royal Express route & region
The Royal Express started by connecting Yokohama with the Izu Peninsula and has grown since then. The train now runs special trips through the Shikoku and Seto Inland Sea regions. Passengers can visit memorable spots like Kotohira, Matsuyama, and travel along the beautiful Shimanami Expressway. The 2025 schedule has these routes:
- Izu Peninsula trips with Pacific coastal views
- Tokaido routes featuring Mt. Fuji views
- Hokkaido adventures across Japan’s northernmost main island
The latest addition to the schedule has six special three-night trips running until March 2025. These trips let guests dive deep into Shikoku’s unique culture and landscapes.
Royal Express unique features and dining experience
Famous designer Eiji Mitooka, who also created the Seven Stars in Kyushu, brought his vision to the Royal Express. The train’s interior shows off traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Guests will find:
- Beautiful inlay woodwork (yosegi) and lattice patterns (kumiko)
- Eye-catching stained glass elements
- A stylish bar car with a piano for live music
The kitchen team creates course meals using local ingredients that showcase regional specialties. Live violin performances add to the elegant atmosphere. The train has eight cars with 100 seats, a dining car, and a multipurpose carriage for events. Kids can enjoy their own play area with a ball pit and library.
Royal Express booking & pricing
The 2025 luxury train tours provide an unmatched travel experience. Three-night journeys cost from ¥960,000 JPY (about $6,500) per person for two-person rooms. A standard one-way trip starts at ¥25,000 ($227), while full cruise plans can reach ¥200,000 ($1,814).
Japan Rail passes don’t cover Royal Express trips. You can book through the official website, but spots are very limited. The six trips scheduled through March 2025 have already sold out.
8. Spacia X
The Spacia X, launched in 2023, represents a modern development in Japanese luxury train travel that combines tradition with innovation. This eye-catching train links Tokyo’s bustling Asakusa district to the picturesque Nikko and Kinugawa regions. A regular commute becomes an extraordinary trip on this remarkable train.
Spacia X route & region
The train runs several daily services between Tokyo and the Nikko/Kinugawa area. Passengers reach their destination in about 2 hours. The route includes stops at major stations like Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree, Kita-Senju, Kasukabe, Tochigi, Shin-Kanuma, Shimo-Imaichi, Tobu-Nikko, Tobu World Square, and Kinugawa Onsen. Travelers can enjoy sweeping views of Japan’s countryside during their trip. This luxurious train connects passengers to many attractions, including the historic Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Kinugawa’s natural hot springs.
Spacia X unique features and dining experience
The train’s striking design takes inspiration from Edo-period crafts such as latticework and bamboo weaving. Its exterior colors reflect the Yomeimon Gate at Nikko Toshogu Shrine. Inside, passengers can choose from six different seating options that match their travel priorities. The standout feature is the “Cockpit Suite,” a premium space at the front of the open-view carriage that looks like a private jet and fits up to seven passengers.
The “GOEN CAFÉ” in Car No.1 stands as the centerpiece of the onboard experience. Its name carries two meanings – it represents both the five monkeys of Nikko and the concept of “fate” or connection. Through collaboration with local businesses, the café serves exclusive products including:
- Craft beers from Nikko Brewing
- Premium sake from long-standing breweries like Watanabe Sahei Shoten
- Regional specialties such as smoked Itadakimasu trout
Spacia X booking & pricing
Seat selection determines the price for Spacia X travel. Special seat charges are:
| Seat Type | Price |
| Cockpit Suite (7 people) | ¥18,000 |
| Compartment (4 people) | ¥8,000 |
| Box Seat (2 people) | ¥400 |
| Cockpit Lounge | ¥500-¥2,000 |
Passengers must pay the basic fare and standard seat express charge on top of these special seat charges. A trip between Kita-Senju and Kinugawa Onsen in the Cockpit Lounge costs about ¥3,840 (fare ¥1,400 + standard seat express charge ¥1,940 + special seat charge ¥500).
Travelers can buy tickets online through the Limited Express Ticketless Service, at ticket machines or counters at Tobu Line stations, or from travel agencies. Ticket sales start at 9 AM one month before the travel date.
Conclusion
Premium rail journeys in Japan represent the finest train travel worldwide, offering more than just transport. These elegant luxury locomotives transform each journey into a memorable experience through refined decor, exceptional cuisine, and picturesque pathways.
Each train brings its own unique character and charm. You can circle Kyushu on the Seven Stars, see eastern Japan’s seasonal beauty on the Shiki-Shima, or enjoy gourmet meals while crossing western Japan on the Twilight Express Mizukaze. Travelers short on time can still experience Japanese luxury rail on day-trips like the Aru Ressha and Saphir Odoriko. Gran Class Shinkansen services give first-class comfort for those who prefer shorter trips.
Prices range substantially from ¥12,000 for a day trip to over ¥1,700,000 for exclusive multi-day experiences. This variety will give luxury train travel options for different budgets.
Early preparation is crucial as numerous services offer limited seating and utilize lottery-based reservation systems. These trains serve as more than mere transportation – they are mobile art exhibitions, floating dining experiences, and exclusive views of Japan’s stunning scenery. Japan’s dedication to omotenashi (hospitality) is evident in features such as cypress bathtubs, stained glass windows, and cuisine inspired by local traditions.
Your trip to Japan in 2025-2026 should feature a ride on a fancy train. These trips often become the highlight creating memories that stick with you. Real luxury isn’t just about pretty surroundings; it’s about telling stories diving into the culture, and experiencing jaw-dropping moments that these special trains provide.
Want more inspirations? Then read our guide on the 8 Incredible Scenic Train Journeys in Japan.
