Japan is known for its efficient and advanced rail system, but it’s not just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about the journey itself. With breathtaking landscapes, stunning views, and unique experiences, Japan offers some of the most scenic train routes in the world. Whether you’re traveling through lush forests, along the coast, or over towering mountains, these scenic train journeys will leave you in awe of Japan’s natural beauty.
1. The Glacier Express (Hakodate to Sapporo)
The Glacier Express is a spectacular train ride through Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island. This journey offers passengers a chance to experience the beauty of Hokkaido’s rugged terrain, dense forests, and majestic mountains. The route between Hakodate and Sapporo is particularly famous for its stunning winter landscapes, though each season offers something unique.
Highlights:
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Snow-Covered Mountains: The train passes through some of the most remote areas of Japan, including snow-covered mountains during the winter months.
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Vast Plains and Farmlands: Hokkaido’s open plains and farmland create wide, expansive views that are unlike other parts of Japan.
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Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wild animals, including deer and foxes, roaming the land as the train winds through the countryside.
2. The Shikoku Railways (The Shimanami Kaido)
The Shikoku Railways’ route along the Shimanami Kaido is one of the most stunning coastal train journeys in Japan. This scenic train ride runs through the Seto Inland Sea, offering beautiful views of small islands, bridges, and crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect combination of scenic beauty and modern transportation.
Highlights:
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Seto Inland Sea Views: The Shimanami Kaido route crosses bridges that connect several small islands in the Seto Inland Sea, providing breathtaking views of the water and surrounding islands.
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Island Hopping: Passengers can easily hop off at various islands to explore picturesque villages and local beaches.
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Sunset Views: The route is particularly stunning at sunset when the sky is painted in vibrant colors, casting a golden glow over the sea.
3. The Kurobe Gorge Railway
Nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, the Kurobe Gorge Railway offers one of the most dramatic and picturesque journeys in Japan. This narrow-gauge train travels through deep gorges, past steep cliffs, and along the Kurobe River, providing a front-row seat to some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the country.
Highlights:
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Breathtaking Gorges: The train cuts through rugged terrain, passing cliffs and waterfalls that give this journey a truly wild and untouched feel.
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Autumn Foliage: In autumn, the gorges transform into a sea of red, orange, and yellow leaves, making it one of the best places to view Japan’s famous fall colors.
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Diverse Wildlife: The journey also gives you a chance to spot wildlife, including Japanese macaques and wild boars, as the train moves through the mountains.
4. The Twilight Express Mizukaze
The Twilight Express Mizukaze offers a luxurious and scenic journey across Japan, from Osaka to Kyushu. This overnight train is designed to provide an upscale experience with panoramic windows, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of Japan’s rural landscapes, mountains, and coastal areas as you travel.
Highlights:
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Comfortable Luxury: The train offers luxury cabins with floor-to-ceiling windows, making it perfect for watching the passing landscape in comfort.
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Historical Routes: The journey passes through the scenic areas of Western Japan, including the Seto Inland Sea and the mountains of Kyushu.
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Sunset and Sunrise Views: The train’s overnight schedule allows passengers to experience both sunset and sunrise from the comfort of their cabins.
5. The JR Kyushu Seven Stars
Considered one of Japan’s most luxurious train journeys, the JR Kyushu Seven Stars offers a five-star experience as it journeys through the picturesque island of Kyushu. The train itself is a work of art, with elegant interiors and world-class service. It travels through beautiful countryside, offering views of mountains, forests, and coastlines.
Highlights:
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Luxury Interiors: The Seven Stars is a luxury sleeper train, featuring comfortable cabins with large windows for uninterrupted views of the scenery.
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Kyushu’s Natural Beauty: As the train moves through Kyushu, passengers can take in views of volcanic mountains, lush green forests, and coastal cliffs.
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Gourmet Dining: Passengers can enjoy fine dining as they watch the stunning landscapes pass by, making it a truly indulgent experience.
6. The Hakone Tozan Railway
Located near Tokyo, the Hakone Tozan Railway offers an incredible journey through the mountainous region of Hakone, famous for its hot springs and views of Mount Fuji. The train takes you on a scenic route through dense forests, up steep mountain inclines, and past scenic waterfalls.
Highlights:
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Mountain Views: As the train ascends the mountain, passengers are treated to stunning views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscape, particularly on clear days.
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Hot Springs: Hakone is well-known for its onsen (hot springs), so consider combining this scenic train ride with a relaxing dip in the therapeutic waters.
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Unique Switchbacks: The railway uses a unique switchback system to navigate the steep incline, offering an exciting and scenic ride up the mountain.
7. The Joetsu Shinkansen (Tokyo to Niigata)
For travelers seeking a fast and scenic train journey, the Joetsu Shinkansen offers a high-speed experience between Tokyo and Niigata, with views of rural landscapes, mountains, and coastal regions along the way. While the Shinkansen is primarily known for its speed, the views make it one of Japan’s most scenic high-speed routes.
Highlights:
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Views of Mount Fuji: On clear days, passengers can enjoy views of Mount Fuji as the train speeds across the Japanese countryside.
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Rice Fields: The route takes you through Niigata, Japan’s rice-growing heartland, offering stunning views of vast rice paddies stretching out across the land.
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Sea of Japan Coastline: As the train nears Niigata, it follows the coastline of the Sea of Japan, offering sweeping views of the ocean and the rugged shoreline.
8. The Oigawa Railway (Shizuoka Prefecture)
This scenic route in Shizuoka Prefecture is famous for its steam locomotive, which offers a nostalgic journey through the picturesque countryside. The Oigawa Railway is particularly stunning during the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
Highlights:
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Steam Locomotive: The Oigawa Railway features a charming steam engine that offers a vintage experience and allows passengers to enjoy the ride in a traditional, nostalgic setting.
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Cherry Blossoms: In spring, the train passes through fields of cherry blossoms, creating a magical atmosphere.
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Mount Fuji Views: On clear days, Mount Fuji looms in the background, adding to the scenic beauty of the journey.
Conclusion: Embark on a Scenic Train Adventure in Japan
Japan’s scenic train journeys offer a unique way to experience the country’s stunning landscapes, from coastal routes to mountain passes. Whether you’re seeking luxury, nostalgia, or adventure, these train journeys promise to deliver unforgettable views and a deeper connection to Japan’s natural beauty. Next time you’re in Japan, hop on one of these trains and experience the country from a whole new perspective.
