Japan, already renowned for its exceptional railways, is raising the bar with two new luxury train experiences. The first, Twilight Express Mizukaze operated by JR West, will travel through the pristine landscapes of western Japan, offering departures from Kyoto, Osaka and Shimonoseki. The 10-car train includes six sleeper cars, two sightseeing cars, a dining car and a lounge, and carries just 30 guests to maintain an intimate and exclusive atmosphere. Renowned chefs will create menus that showcase regional specialties encountered along the route.
The second train, Train Suite Shiki-Shima from JR East, will depart from Tokyo’s Ueno station and run through the Tohoku region into Hokkaido. Like the Mizukaze, Shiki-Shima emphasizes local cuisine and scenic viewing. The 10-car consist features four cars dedicated to dining and observation, and accommodates 34 passengers in 17 luxurious rooms across six sleeper cars. Operations are scheduled to begin next May.
Both services focus on a slow, immersive travel style that celebrates regional culture, seasonal ingredients and carefully considered design. Private sleeping accommodations, panoramic observation spaces and curated dining highlight the journey as much as the destinations. With limited capacity on each train, reservations are expected to be competitive; travelers seeking an elevated rail experience can expect attentive service, refined menus and opportunities to see parts of Japan typically bypassed by conventional routes.
These trains reflect a growing trend in luxury rail travel: combining high-quality local food, thoughtful interior design and routes that emphasize scenery and cultural context. By offering small passenger numbers and specialized onboard experiences, operators aim to provide journeys that feel personal and memorable rather than merely a means of transport.
For travelers interested in exploring Japan at a relaxed pace, both Twilight Express Mizukaze and Train Suite Shiki-Shima present distinctive options. Each train pairs regional flavors with carefully planned itineraries and exclusive onboard amenities, making them attractive choices for anyone seeking a refined, scenic way to discover Japan’s varied landscapes and culinary traditions.
