7 Incredible Japan Sightseeing Trains Worth Adding to Your Itinerary
Planning your first trip to Japan? You’ve probably already discovered that Japan’s incredible sightseeing trains are almost as famous as the destinations themselves!
From beautifully designed carriages and panoramic mountain views to quirky themed trains that look like something out of a storybook, Japan really knows how to make getting from A to B part of the adventure.
But here’s something we learned the hard way on our first trip. Just because a train looks incredible doesn’t mean it makes sense for your itinerary!
Some are surprisingly difficult to squeeze in, and choosing the wrong route can mean spending an entire day backtracking.
Now, as we plan our SEVENTH trip to Japan, we’ve become pretty good at hunting down the sightseeing trains that are actually worth the detour.
And the best part? You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on a luxury rail experience. Some of our favourites cost less than US$20!
We’ve put together seven incredible Japanese sightseeing trains, including three that take you to some of our favourite destinations in Japan.
We’ll show you where they go, how much they cost, what to see when you arrive and, most importantly, how to book them.
Because the golden rule with Japan’s sightseeing trains is simple: choose one that fits your itinerary, not one that sends you hours out of your way!
1. Yufuin no Mori – Kyushu’s Gorgeous Forest Train
Route: Hakata (Fukuoka) → Yufuin (selected services continue to Beppu)
Cost: Approximately ¥6,130 (US$39) one way to Yufuin
Journey time: Around 2 hours 15 minutes
If there’s one sightseeing train we’d happily ride again, it’s the Yufuin no Mori!
This gorgeous emerald-green train winds its way through the Kyushu countryside, passing lush forests, mountains and little rural towns before arriving in one of Japan’s prettiest hot spring destinations.
And the train itself is part of the experience!
Think beautiful timber interiors, huge windows, elevated seating and an onboard café serving regional treats.
But what makes this train particularly special is where it takes you.
Why it’s worth it:
- Yunotsubo Street: A charming shopping street packed with cafés, boutiques and delicious local treats.
- Lake Kinrin: A beautiful little lake famous for its early-morning mist.
- Yufuin Floral Village: A quirky fairytale-inspired village filled with tiny shops and picture-perfect corners.
- Traditional onsens: Relax in natural hot springs with views towards Mount Yufu.
Our tip: Don’t rush straight back to Fukuoka! If you can spare the time, stay overnight in Yufuin and enjoy the town once the day-trippers have disappeared. Or continue onwards to Beppu, famous for its incredible hot springs.
Booking tips:
- Operated by JR Kyushu.
- All seats are reserved, so book ahead.
- Tickets generally go on sale through JR around one month before departure.
- Klook may accept advance booking requests earlier, with confirmation subject to ticket release and availability.
- Check that you’re selecting Yufuin no Mori, not the regular Yufu limited express.
Book Yufuin no Mori here
Book your tickets through Klook and use our exclusive discount code KLOOKGABTK for 10% off eligible bookings.
Popular departures can sell out, so don’t leave this one until you arrive in Japan!
2. Spacia X – Tokyo to Nikko in Style
Route: Asakusa (Tokyo) → Tobu-Nikko or Kinugawa Onsen
Cost: Approximately US$29 one way for standard seating, including the base fare and limited express charges. Premium seating and private suites cost extra.
Journey time: Around 2 hours
If you thought Japan’s luxury trains were only for travellers with enormous budgets, wait until you see the Spacia X!
This futuristic train looks like something straight out of a science fiction movie, with enormous windows, beautifully designed interiors and even an onboard café.
There are six different seating options, including spacious premium seats, private compartments and an incredible cockpit lounge with views straight out the front of the train.
But here’s why we love this route: it takes you from Tokyo to Nikko, one of Japan’s most spectacular cultural destinations!
Why it’s worth it:
- Toshogu Shrine: An extraordinary UNESCO-listed shrine complex surrounded by towering cedar trees.
- Shinkyo Bridge: One of Japan’s most photographed red bridges.
- Kegon Falls: A spectacular waterfall dropping almost 100 metres.
- Lake Chuzenji: A beautiful mountain lake, particularly stunning during autumn.
Our tip: Nikko makes a brilliant day trip from Tokyo, but don’t underestimate how much there is to see! If you want to explore Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls as well as the temples, start early or consider staying overnight.
Booking tips:
- Operated by Tobu Railway, departing from Asakusa Station.
- Book your preferred departure ahead of time, particularly on weekends.
- Standard seating is a great option if you’re watching your budget.
- Premium seats and private suites cost extra and are worth considering if you want to make the journey itself a special experience.
- Remember that standard fares include both the base railway fare and limited express charges.
Book Spacia X here
You can book your Spacia X tickets through Klook too and use our discount code KLOOKGABTK for 10% off eligible bookings.
And if you’re planning a trip to Nikko, this is one train we’d definitely consider building into your itinerary!
3. Ibusuki no Tamatebako – Japan’s Black-and-White Treasure Box Train
Route: Kagoshima-Chuo → Ibusuki, southern Kyushu
Cost: Approximately ¥2,950 (US$19) one way
Journey time: Around 50 minutes
Now this might just be one of Japan’s quirkiest sightseeing trains!
The Ibusuki no Tamatebako, affectionately known as the Treasure Box Train, is instantly recognisable thanks to its unusual black-and-white exterior.
And there’s a lovely little story behind it.
The train is inspired by a Japanese folktale about a fisherman who opens a mysterious treasure box. When the train doors open, a puff of white mist appears, just like the smoke from the legendary box!
Inside, you’ll find timber interiors, seaside-facing seats and gorgeous views across Kagoshima Bay.
But the real surprise is what you’ll find at the other end!
Why it’s worth it:
- Natural sand baths: Ibusuki is famous for its unusual hot sand bathing experience, where you’re buried up to your neck in naturally heated volcanic sand!
- Traditional onsens: There are plenty of hot springs to enjoy after your sand bath.
- Lake Ikeda: Kyushu’s largest lake, with beautiful views towards Mount Kaimon.
- Mount Kaimon: A perfectly shaped volcanic mountain nicknamed the Satsuma Fuji.
Our tip: If there’s one experience you shouldn’t miss in Ibusuki, it’s the natural sand baths. They’re one of the most unusual onsen experiences you’ll find anywhere in Japan!
And watch for that little puff of mist when the train doors open!
Booking tips:
- Operated by JR Kyushu.
- All seats are reserved.
- Book ahead, especially during busy travel periods.
- Tickets generally become available around one month before departure.
- Check the operating timetable before making your plans.
How to book Ibusuki no Tamatebako here
You can reserve tickets through JR Kyushu’s official reservation service or at participating JR ticket offices.
With just a 50-minute journey, this is one of the easiest sightseeing trains to combine with a memorable day trip in southern Kyushu.
4. Aoniyoshi – Japan’s Elegant Sightseeing Train to Nara
Route: Kyoto ↔ Osaka ↔ Nara
Cost: From ¥800 (around $6 AUD/USD)
The Aoniyoshi is our absolute favourite. With plush lounge-style seats, gold-accented interiors, and panoramic windows, it feels more like a vintage luxurious train Japan would be proud of than a regional commuter ride.
Why it’s worth it:
- Perfect for a day trip to Nara
- Runs directly from Kyoto and Osaka
- Ideal for visiting Nara Park (home of the famous bowing deer) and watching the famous mochi pounding at Nakatanidou.
Booking tips:
- Operated by Kintetsu Railway
- Reserve online or at a Kintetsu ticket counter
- Aim for a weekday morning for fewer crowds
If you’re interested in more about must-see spots, check out our Best Places To Visit In Japan For First Timers for inspiration.
Book Aoniyoshi tickets here
5. Fujisan View Express – A Scenic Journey to Mount Fuji
Route: Otsuki ↔ Kawaguchiko (Mount Fuji area)
Cost: From ¥500 (around $3 AUD/USD)
We stumbled across this one by accident, but it ended up being a highlight of our trip. The Fujisan View Express is all about the views, Mt Fuji, front and center. It’s the perfect budget-friendly introduction to luxury trains in Japan.
Why it’s worth it:
- Huge windows for unobstructed views of Mt Fuji
- Elegant red and gold design with comfortable seating
- Ideal for a day trip to Lake Kawaguchiko
Booking tips:
- Reserve in advance, especially for the premium Red Car section
- Operated by Fujikyu Railway
- Mt Fuji is most visible on clear mornings, especially in winter
For a perfect day trip itinerary around this area, don’t miss our Epic Day Trip From Kyoto to Mount Fuji: Perfect For First Timers.
Book Fujisan View Express tickets here
6. Kyo Train Garaku – Kyoto’s Beautiful Traditional Japanese Train
Route: Kyoto ↔ Osaka (Hankyu Line)
Cost: From ¥400 (around $3 AUD/USD)
f a Japanese inn met a train, this would be the result. Each carriage is inspired by a different season in Kyoto, with lanterns, wooden accents, and scenic artwork creating a calm, garden-like atmosphere. This is Japan luxury trains done differently, minimal cost, maximum charm.
Why it’s worth it:
- Immersive seasonal themes inside each carriage
- A truly unique local commuter train experience
- Short but beautiful ride perfect for first-timers
Booking tips:
- No seat reservation required
- You can take your luggage but arrive 30 mins early to secure a spot
- Only runs on weekends and holidays
- Operated by Hankyu Railway (look for trains with “Kyo Train” branding)
Looking for places to stay in Kyoto after your ride? Check out our review of the Best Boutique Hotels in Kyoto: Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu Review.
If Spacia X takes you in style from Tokyo to Nikko, the Kyoto Tango Railway does the same from Kyoto to the Sea.
7. Kyoto Tango Railway -Stunning Journey Through Kyoto by the Sea
The Kyoto Tango Railway is the most scenic way to reach Kyoto by the Sea. With retro-style interiors, wide windows for coastal views, and even themed sightseeing trains like the Kuromatsu dining car, the ride feels like part of the destination itself.
Why The Kyoto Tango Railway is worth it:
- Direct access from Kyoto to Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s most beautiful coastal spots
- Unique themed trains with observation seating and onboard dining
- A relaxing way to explore Kyoto by the Sea without the hassle of transfers
Booking tips:
- Operated by Willer Trains
- Limited express tickets from Kyoto to Amanohashidate cost around ¥5,200 one-way
- Reserve online through the Willer website or at Kyoto Station
- For the Kuromatsu dining train, book in advance as seats are limited
If you’re interested in more about must-see spots, check out our Best Places To Visit In Japan For First Timers for inspiration.
Book Kyoto Tango Railway Tickets here
Planning Your Japan Trip?
Grab a copy of our Stress-Free Guide to Japan and save yourself hours of wasted time and hassle during planning.
- Expert advice on which rail pass (if any) is right for your trip
- Insider tips on saving money and time on transport, accommodation, and more
- Plus, more than 190 Google Map pins marking the best hotels, experiences, and must-visit locations across Japan
This detailed guide is designed to make your first trip to Japan seamless and enjoyable.
Click here to purchase the Japan Travel Guide now!
FAQs: Affordable Luxury Trains in Japan
Do I need a Japan Rail Pass to ride these trains?
Nope! These are all operated by private rail companies and are not covered by the JR Pass. But they’re so affordable, you won’t need one. These luxury Japanese trains offer incredible value.
Can I bring luggage onboard?
Yes, small to medium suitcases are fine. For larger luggage, Spacia X offers luggage storage. The others have overhead racks or limited space. Arrive 30 minutes early to ensure you get a spot.
Are these trains kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Especially Fujisan View Express and Spacia X. The design and scenery keep little ones entertained.
Do these run every day?
Most do, but Kyo Train Garaku only runs on weekends and holidays. Always check the official website before planning your trip.
Can I use my IC card (Suica, Pasmo, etc.) to pay?
Not for seat reservations. You’ll need to purchase a separate ticket, usually at the station or online.
Are there toilets onboard?
Yes, all four have clean toilet facilities, it’s Japan, after all! Expect nothing less from luxury trains Japan has designed with care.
Have more questions? Send us a message on Instagram @global.and.beyond.travel and we’ll help you plan your dream ride aboard a luxury Japanese train!