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In this world where all it takes to reach your destination is launching the Uber app and availing of a ride, why would you take a step back to experience trains, right?
Though bullet trains in Japan are still popular because since it is an affordable and a fast way to get to where you want to be, there are several other train rides that can make your trip the most memorable.
From railway journeys that could make you feel you’re inside the Hogwarts Express to those so vintage you’d want to order a cup of tea, these are the most scenic train rides in Japan right now.
Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train
When you want to take a moment to experience Japan’s nature and old history, you’ll want to visit Hokkaido, famous for its stunning natural beauty, world-class – not beaches – but powder snow for snowboarding and skiing, tasty food, fresh seafood, and dairy products.
Running leisurely between Kushiro and Toro is the Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train, in operation for over 35 years now. Inside the train, you’ll enjoy views of the largest wetland in Japan, the Kushiro Wetland, treating you to a fun spectacle of animals from the train window.
Kurobe Gorge Railway
Here, it’s all about the gorgeous Japanese Alps, those magnificent mountain ranges running along the very spine of the heart of Honshu, home to sacred shrines, hot springs, and traditional farmers’ villages. It is a no-brainer to explore this location aboard the Kurobe Gorge Railway.
It’s even older, originally built in the mid-1950s to serve the Kurobe dam construction, the line operating along the 12.4-mile stretch crossing Kurobe Gorge, which is one of Japan’s deepest gorges. It’s an 80-minute ride that treats you to views of the rugged mountain landscapes, steep cliff sides, a forested ravine, and the gurgling Kurobe River. There are 40 tunnels to pass by.
Resort Shirakami
In Singapore, there’s a train that will journey you to Resorts World Sentosa from the main city, but in Japan, there’s Resort Shirakami, the scenic train that runs alongside the picturesque coastline of the Sea of Japan, dashing through lush forests and running along ocean views.
The views of the outside are fantastic, but it’s what you can experience during the ride that even makes this train trip unforgettable. Enjoy live Tsugaru shamisen performances, local sake tastings, and stops at scenic viewpoints, such as the Senjojiki Rock Beach.
POKÉMON with YOU Train
Relatively new because it was only in service since December 2012, and why not, it’s the POKÉMON with YOU train, an ode to one of the world’s favorite animes. It’s official since, well, the exterior design is “Pokémon,” which can remind you of the trains taking you to Disneyland parks across the globe.
Its interiors are screaming Pokémon and Pikachu, with the anime’s music playing in the background and decorations that will transport you to a whimsical experience through the rural landscapes of the Iwate Prefecture.
Interestingly, this train ride is part of an initiative to cheer up Tohoku’s children affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake, in such a way to introduce them to a trip around Tohoku that they will enjoy.
Gono Line
Meanwhile, the Gono Line runs along the western coast of the Aomori and Akita Prefectures of northern Japan, a region overflowing with wild nature and volcanic mountain ranges. It is one of the most scenic train rides in this East Asian country as it passes through lush forests and snowy landscapes, as well as rice paddies and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakami-Sanchi. Never better.
Seven Stars in Kyushu, a Luxury Sleeper Train
Sleeper trains are highly famous in Japan, or those trains where you can go get some rest through the night, and wake up the next morning already at your destination. Now, if you want a sleeper train filled with luxury, then buy your ticket for the Seven Stars in Kyushu train.
It offers a multi-day journey across several scenic areas of Kyushu, offering gourmet dining experiences, traditional arts performances, and stays at famous ryokan inns. The vibes will make sea cruises cringe as this train takes you into those short train clips you see on Instagram.
ALSO READ: 9 MUST-VISIT SHRINES IN KYOTO
The Story of 13000 Feet
Get your slot inside this train for the most unique experiences from the peaks of Tateyama to Toyama Bay, unfolding over you across 4,000 meters of elevation change. Take a breather to relax and enjoy the most sublime sceneries and dining onboard with the finest farmlands and fish dishes from each season. So, this train offers a taste of winter gastronomy for your summer ride.
All aboard! Japan is not just about the Shinkansen bullet trains. Now you know there are various other train trips that may be traditional and slow, but will never fail to provide the experience you will carry with you for a lifetime.
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