Many of Japan's hidden gems can be discovered through its famous train journeys
The Shinkansen, colloquially known in English as the bullet train, is a network of the internationally renowned high-speed railway lines in Japan. In a press statement, state tourism promotion body Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) says that beginning with the very first Shimbashi-Yokohama line launched in 1872, the small island nation’s punctual, high-tech, bullet-fast trains have been a national source of pride and fascination.
As railway travel is increasingly being rediscovered as a sustainable way to sightsee in style and comfort, JNTO lists some unique railway lines for visitors to experience through lesser-known ‘Golden Gateway’ regions of Japan.
Meet Pikachu on the ‘Pokemon with You’ train
Visitors can meet Pikachu on the ‘Pokemon with You’ train
The ‘Pokémon with You’ train is perfect for visitors who are anime fans or travelling with children, says JNTO. The train runs from Ichinoseki in Iwate prefecture through to Kesennuma in Miyagi prefecture and is designed to showcase the various natural locations that are scattered along the train line.
JNTO says that the Pokémon-themed journey is much like an amusement park ride on rails in the great outdoors, where nature lovers will also find their thrills. The train features a playroom car with a reclining Pikachu and loads of other gadgets for the children, says the statement.
JNTO adds that passengers receive a souvenir notebook, as well as a commemorative boarding pass to collect stamps from stations along the journey and create a memento of the trip.
Train Suite Shiki-Shima: Natural wonders and gourmet luxury
JNTO says that train Suite Shiki-Shima is a journey of natural wonders and gourmet luxury
JNTO says that for the ultimate Japanese adventure, visitors could include the train Suite Shiki-Shima on their itinerary. This is a luxury train that travels through the natural landscapes of Eastern Japan. The statement adds that the sightseeing journeys are from two to four days in duration, departing from Tokyo‘s bustling Ueno station to reach the Pacific coastlines. It covers ancient shrines, historical buildings, contemporary art galleries and regional handicrafts.
JNTO says that the interiors of the train are designed with the region’s traditional wood, metal, and textiles handicrafts for a luxurious look. Most of the gourmet meals are served on board the train, where local chefs create seasonal dishes using seasonal ingredients from the various regions along the route. The Shiki-Shima is a perfect experience for those seeking views of the best seasonal scenery while experiencing Japan uniquely with every journey, adds the statement.
Shikoku Mannaka Sennen Monogatari
Shikoku sightseeing train guides through adventures to some of Japan’s most beautiful hidden spots
To discover the hidden charms and rich history of Shikoku’s Tokushima and Kagawa prefectures, JNTO says visitors must include Shikoku Mannaka Sennen Monogatari ride. This sightseeing train guides through adventures to some of Japan’s most naturally secluded and historically relevant destinations, it says.
JNTO adds that the train’s interior design is based on an old Japanese-style house, with colour motifs representing the four seasons, which visitors can enjoy in real life outside the train’s huge windows as the train passes through rice paddies, over clear rivers, and through steep valleys.
Onboard meals are specially prepared using ingredients from Tokushima and Kagawa prefecture as both Western and local Shikoku styles of cuisines. The train stops at five of the island’s unique attractions where passengers can disembark to explore the area. Among them is Oboke Gorge, where the emerald-coloured Yoshino River cuts through the rugged mountains of Tokushima Prefecture. Although breathtaking year round, Oboke Gorge is particularly gorgeous during autumn when the vivid fall foliage creates a perfect contrast with the green-blue water of the river.
