Japan is a country that boasts of an efficient and sophisticated railway network. The train journeys in Japan are not only convenient but also offer breathtaking views of the countryside, mountains, and cities. From the ultra-fast Shinkansen to the scenic local lines, there is a train journey for everyone in Japan. In this blog post, we will take you on a ride through some of the best train journeys that Japan has to offer. So sit back, relax and let’s explore these amazing train routes together!
The Shinkansen
The Shinkansen, also known as the bullet train, is one of Japan’s most iconic and remarkable train journeys. These high-speed trains travel at speeds of up to 320 km/h, making them the fastest way to get around Japan.
Not only are they fast but they’re also incredibly comfortable with spacious seats and onboard facilities such as vending machines and toilets. The trains run on time without any delays, making them incredibly reliable for your journey.
The Shinkansen connects major cities in Japan such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Fukuoka which means you can easily explore every corner of the country via this network. And if you’re a tourist visiting Japan for the first time then riding on a Shinkansen should definitely be on your bucket list!
The Tokaido Line
The Tokaido Line is one of the busiest railways in Japan, covering a distance of 515.4 km from Tokyo to Shin-Osaka. It was opened in 1964 and since then it has been serving millions of passengers every year.
This train journey takes you through some of the most picturesque landscapes in Japan, including Mount Fuji, the Pacific Ocean, and traditional Japanese villages. The bullet trains that run on this line are comfortable and offer breathtaking views of the countryside.
One notable stop along this route is Kyoto – home to over 2,000 temples and shrines with rich cultural heritage. Visitors can also experience Japanese cuisine at its best by stopping off at Nagoya or Osaka. Local specialties such as takoyaki (octopus balls) await travelers who want to indulge their taste buds.
Taking a ride on The Tokaido Line is an excellent way to travel between two major cities while enjoying scenic vistas along the way.
The Sanin Main Line
The Sanin Main Line is one of Japan’s most scenic train journeys, running along the coast of the Sea of Japan. The route features stunning views of rugged mountains and picturesque fishing villages.
As the train winds its way through tunnels and over bridges, passengers can take in the breathtaking scenery from their seats or step outside onto observatory platforms for an even better view.
One highlight of this journey is the Kinosaki Onsen station, a charming hot spring town with traditional Japanese ryokan inns where visitors can relax and enjoy a soak in natural hot springs.
Another notable stop on the Sanin Main Line is Amanohashidate, known as “Bridge to Heaven” due to its beautiful sandbar stretching across Miyazu Bay. Visitors can take a cable car up to Kasamatsu Park for panoramic views or rent bicycles to explore further.
Riding the Sanin Main Line offers a unique opportunity to experience some of Japan’s most stunning natural landscapes and cultural landmarks all from the comfort of a train carriage.
The Kyushu Shinkansen
The Kyushu Shinkansen is the newest addition to Japan’s high-speed rail network, having opened in 2011. This line connects Hakata in Fukuoka Prefecture with Kagoshima-Chuo in Kagoshima Prefecture, covering a distance of 263 kilometers and making it one of the shortest shinkansen lines.
But don’t let its length fool you – this train journey is packed with breathtaking scenery that showcases the natural beauty and cultural richness of Kyushu. From panoramic views of Mount Aso, one of Japan’s largest active volcanoes, to glimpses into traditional Japanese culture at Kumamoto Castle and Nagasaki’s historic sites, every moment on board the Kyushu Shinkansen promises to be unforgettable.
Japan offers some truly remarkable train journeys that are not only efficient but also showcase some of the most stunning landscapes and cultural experiences possible. The four train journeys we’ve explored here – The Shinkansen, The Tokaido Line, The Sanin Main Line and The Kyushu Shinkansen – offer travelers an opportunity to see different parts of Japan through a unique perspective while enjoying comfortable travel from one destination to another. So why not hop aboard these trains on your next trip to Japan?
