great rail journeys 2023 japan

Traveling Japan By Train: Complete and Comprehensive Guide [2023]

The complete file to prepare your stay

If more and more travel agencies offer alternative solutions, the train in Japan remains the most widespread and simplest means of transport. It must be said that the Japanese rail network is well developed, safe, fairly affordable for foreigners (thanks to the JR Pass !)… and above all renowned for the quality of its service.

But to be perfectly honest, the Japanese system isn’t the easiest to understand when you get to grips with it for the first time. How do train lines work in Japan? Which JR Pass to choose? How to choose, use and recharge an IC card? Personally, it took me three trips and a few galleys to start feeling really comfortable in my travels. Hence my desire to write this little guide to Japan by train which, I hope, will help you see things more clearly, especially if you are planning your first trip.

Table of Contents

Jr and jr pass lines.

Let’s start with THE basics. The acronym JR designates the  company Japan Railways . This company was born from the privatization of the Japan National Railways (JNR) in 1987. It is therefore, originally, the national railways, which cover the majority of the archipelago.

The JR network

Japan Railways  is divided into 6 regional entities responsible for passenger transport:  JR Hokkaido  ,  JR East  ,  JR Central  ,  JR West  ,  JR Shikoku  and  JR Kyushu  . 

For the traveler, this breakdown can be important to know, since it determines the purchase of the  regional JR Passes  which I will tell you about a little later. It is, for example, impossible to buy a  Kyushu Pass  at JR Shikoku. 

National JR Passes VS Regional JR Passes

The  JR company  is well known for its famous  national JR Pass  .  Reserved only for foreigners, this unlimited Pass of 7, 14 or 21 days allows you to travel without restrictions on the entire  JR network  (to which all major Japanese cities are of course connected). Unless you venture deep into the countryside, a standard JR Pass is generally more than enough to enjoy your stay. But beware: it is not necessarily profitable.

How to determine if the purchase is worth it? All you have to do is study your itinerary on   Japan Travel by Navitime  or  Jorudan  , two very practical sites that allow you to find out the timetables and the cost of your various journeys at a glance (all lines combined). 

Your itinerary with the national JR Pass is not profitable? Why not look into the alternative of regional JR Passes? They can save you a lot of money. In concrete terms, these JR Passes offer very similar advantages to the National Pass, but are geographically limited. Moreover, they do not necessarily cover the same trains. The  Nozomi shinkansen  , for example, is included in the   Sanyo San’in Area Pass  …but not in the national JR Pass. So, I encourage you to study these passes carefully before making your choice.

Example of calculation for the JR Pass

For my part, having spent 3 weeks in Japan in December 2020, I opted for a  7-day Sanyo San’in Area pass  (146€), and 3  North Kyushu Passes of 5 days  to cover the remaining 15 days (3 ×€77). The total value of these 4 passes, for 22 days of travel, is therefore €377. The National Pass, meanwhile, would have cost me €456, for only 21 days. The calculation is quickly done.

If you are staying in the same area for a long time, I therefore recommend that you get the corresponding  regional pass  , which will cost you less. On the other hand, if you plan to criss-cross Japan for a short period of time, the National Pass will be preferable.

Ordering JR Pass

As the JR Pass has a limited validity period, do not order it too early before your departure. The process is simple, be careful however to fill in the same name as on your passport, to avoid complications with the Japanese administration.

After completing the form and paying online, you will receive your vouchers by post within a few days. The vouchers are to be handed in at the  JR counter  , once arrived in Japan. There is a JR counter at each international airport and at all major train stations.  Here you can find list of all pick-up locations.

Once you have your JR Pass in your pocket, you will need to present it at the  station  each time you travel. No need to use the security gates: just take the line called  Rail Pass Gate  (located at either end). This system is not complicated, but can be tedious in the long run, especially in large stations during rush hour. It can indeed happen that a queue forms at the level of the Rail Pass Gate. But generally, it’s pretty smooth.

Private train lines in Japan

This is where it gets complicated! Apart from Japan Railways, a multitude of  private companies  also join in the  Japanese railway network  …

The strong local presence of private companies

In large cities, these companies generally operate  public transport  . Often well established locally, they can also have other activities to offer. For example, in Kyushu, the private company  Nishitetsu  manages both private railway lines, but also bus lines… and hotels (like the Nishitetsu Hotel Croom Hakata).

Coming back to the train, let’s say it straight away: your JR Pass will be of no use to you on private lines. It is therefore an additional budget that you will have to take into account. If you are staying in Tokyo, however, be aware that the  Yamanote  is indeed a JR line. You will therefore be able to make the most of your pass in the capital.

A rather impressive aspect of the private Japanese network is that it does not just use the pre-existing railway lines. Some companies have their own lines, and therefore their own stations, which sometimes “double” with JR stations (but in reality complete the local rail network).  How do you know, then, if you are at the right station?  And generally, when necessary, the name of the private company precedes that of the station. An example, near Dazaifu: a JR station called Futsukaichi, whose private equivalent is called Nishitetsu-Futsukaichi. Quite simple.

Private rail passes

It was to be expected, the parallel network of private lines also has its own transport passes, which can also prove profitable depending on your route. I won’t dwell too much on the subject because I haven’t tested this kind of pass, but during the preparations for my first trip, I had strongly considered buying a  Kansai Thru Pass  , before giving up that idea.

I think these passes may be of interest to you if you want to explore a region in more depth, and get off the beaten track by freeing yourself from the comfort provided by the JR Pass. Because one of the effects of the JR Pass is that you end up designing your itinerary so that it is profitable, sometimes at the expense of more confidential destinations (because they are poorly served by JR lines). 

In the end, determining whether this or that pass is suitable for your situation can be a rather tedious exercise, which also leaves little room for improvisation.

The main rail passes

Here is a list of some private rail passes to know.

• The Kansai Thru Pass :  as its name suggests, this pass allows you to travel on all of Kansai’s private lines, including  bus and metro  . Its other advantage is to offer reductions on the entry of many tourist sites, museums but also temples. You can find this pass at the tourist office.
• The Kintetsu Rail Pass Wide:  this pass allows you to travel freely on all lines of the  Kintetsu  company , which serve (among others) Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Nagoya and Ise. It can be found at the tourist office or at Kansai International Airport (KIX).
• The Hakone Free Pass :  if you plan to visit Hakone on an excursion from Tokyo, this pass is for you. Valid for two consecutive days, it includes the journey between  Shinjuku  (Odakyu station) and Hakone, via the trains of the  Odakyu  company , as well as many means of transport to get around once there: bus, gondola, funicular, boat… What’s better is that Hakone Free Pass offers you great discounts on the main tourist sites in the area.  You can get it in the stations of the private company Odakyu.

If you’ve made it this far, you now know that the choice of a pass in Japan is mainly conditioned by its profitability. But another problem arises, which I haven’t talked about much: the practical aspect. Having a pass means you can skip the ticket counter for each trip, saving you time and stress. However, as mentioned earlier, passes are not valid everywhere. They may be limited geographically, or not work on certain types of trains or companies. Hence the interest in having an IC card as a complement.

What is an IC card?

It is quite simply a  prepaid and contactless card  , which can be used at station security gates, but also to pay for purchases in certain distributors or at the konbini. In summary, an IC card is like a small virtual wallet that is used to make small purchases everywhere in Japan.

The different IC cards

There are many different cards, all of which have similar properties. As a general rule, they all operate outside their original scope. For example, a  SUICA  from Tokyo could work perfectly in Fukuoka, Kyoto or Osaka. But beware: this does not mean that your card can replace currency absolutely everywhere. In the Japanese countryside, for example, few buses have a reader that takes IC cards into account. You will therefore have to buy your ticket “the old fashioned way”, and pay the driver in cash. In the big cities, on the other hand, the system is well established, just like in the konbini.

An IC card can be bought at the station. As for the SUICA, sold in Tokyo, the card is ready to use and already credited with ¥2000 (including ¥500 deposit) at the time of purchase. You can recover the deposit at the end of your stay, by returning your card to Tokyo , at JR East stations. But you can also choose to keep your card for the next trip. Its validity period is 10 years.

The name and look of your card will depend on where you get it.

Recharge your IC card

When it comes to  recharging  , nothing could be simpler! You will frequently come across  IC terminals  like the ones below in the station: all you have to do is insert your card, choose the top-up amount and insert the amount (coin or banknote). The interface is available in English, if you are afraid of not finding your way around… 

Each time you use your IC card, the remaining amount appears. If you do not have enough credit to pay for your trip, the security gate will turn red. You will then have to go to the nearest counter to top-up.

Trains in Japan

There you go, you know just about everything about the options available to you, in terms of  rail passes  and prepaid cards. Let’s now talk about the different types of trains that we come across in Japan…

The Shinkansen

 Several generations of  Shinkansen  are currently circulating in Japan:  Kodama  ,  Sakura  ,  Hikari  ,  Nozomi  … The older the shinkansen, the slower it is, and the more accessible it is (from a price point of view or as part of the JR Pass)

To take the shinkansen, it is recommended to reserve your ticket, even if some trains are specially dedicated to travelers without reservation. In major stations, shinkansen run very regularly (one departure approximately every 15 minutes). In smaller stations, on the other hand, it all depends on the type of train. The Kodama, for example, an old model, will serve more stations than the Nozomi, a recent model. Note that stations dedicated specifically to shinkansen are named using the prefix shin-, such as  Shin-Osaka  station , or  Shin-Yamaguchi  station .

If Hokkaido and Shikoku are very poorly (if at all) served in places, the other two islands have an extensive network to connect the major cities between them.

Worth noting is a fact that several new Shinkansen routes are currently being built:

• Hokkaido Shinkansen:  extension from Hakodate via Niseko and Otaru to Sapporo in 2030.
• Hokuriku Shinkansen: extension from Kanazawa to Tsuruga in spring 2024 and via Obama and Kyoto to Osaka in the 2040s at the earliest.
• Chuo Shinkansen:  Using maglev technology, this new line is scheduled to connect Tokyo with Nagoya sometime after 2027 and with Osaka sometime after 2037.

Local trains

Apart from the shinkansen,  local JR trains  and  Express  or  Super Express  are also included in the JR Pass. Which is very practical when you move away from the big cities or when you visit prefectures without high-speed lines. You will no doubt have to use these means of transport frequently, if you prefer roaming.

Tourist trains

Another interesting type of train to know:  tourist trains  . I’ve done quite a bit during my travels, so I won’t dwell too much on the subject. But some Japanese lines really surprised me. The  JR SeaSide Liner  to Sasebo (from Nagasaki) for example. Its particularity is to follow the coast as closely as possible. An incredible memory!

The small red train of the Hakone Tozan  line  (Hakone Machi), which connects Hakone to Odawara, is also very famous. It is nicknamed “the hydrangea train”, because of the many hydrangea bushes planted along the rails. These bloom in June. If you’re lucky, you can even stand at the front of the train to enjoy the view. It has a large panoramic window.

Stations in Japan

To close this article, I will tell you a little about  Japanese stations  . If the small country stations are nothing special , the stations of the big cities are generally gigantic.  They integrate huge shopping centers, often on several floors.

It’s quite confusing when you first discover it, but you have to admit that it’s very practical.

Luggage lockers

If you are not familiar with the Takkyubin delivery service (to free you from your luggage between two stopovers), the  luggage lockers  (coin lockers) will be your best friends! These are lockers of varying sizes, the rental of which costs (depending on the size) from ¥100 to ¥700. It can be difficult to find a free  corner locker  at a station, especially if your luggage is bulky.

Omiyage and ekiben

If you are looking for  omiyage  (travel souvenirs), Japanese train stations are the ideal place to get them. You will find many shops there showcasing regional specialties and local crafts. 

Japanese stations are also true paradises for foodies. In addition to the many places offering something to nibble on the go, there are also kiosks specializing in   ekiben   . These  station bentos   are renowned for their excellent quality.

Now that you know everything about how the  Japanese rail system  works , a few last tips to get things organized…

Plan your route

To determine both the best route and the profitability of your passes,  Japan Travel by Navitime  or  Jorudan  are the two tools to know. They are very easy to use and give you, for each request, several alternative routes. You can also refine your search criteria (eg exclude shinkansen or JR lines, etc.).  Very practical and reliable.

Do not hesitate to compare prices

Before  ordering your JR Pass  , do not hesitate to take out the calculator. And don’t forget the wide range available to you via regional, JR or private Rail Passes.

Adapt your itinerary…

If you tend to set yourself many travel goals, don’t forget to take into account accessibility constraints when designing your itinerary optimally. Specifically, if some stops require taking 4 train connections, or three buses and a taxi, it may be better to rethink your route to avoid wasting considerable time in transportation (at the expense of discovery).

However, do not deprive yourself of a place if you really want to go there, because the logistics are a bit complicated. Apart from the train, buses can be a good alternative in some cases.

For urban journeys, invest in a prepaid card

If you have to travel frequently on private lines, or if the JR Pass is not profitable in your case, do as the Japanese do: consider IC cards. They will save you from having to buy your tickets for each trip. And can help you out at the konbini.

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I'm a seasoned train traveler. Here are 5 new trains and routes around the world that I want to take in 2023.

• I've taken trains around the US, Europe, and Canada in accommodations from coach to sleeper cabins.
• In 2023, rail lines around the world are upgrading their train cars and traveling to new places. 
• Here are the 2023 trains and routes I'm most excited about, from the US to Japan.

Over the last year and a half, I've spent nearly 150 hours traveling by train, from first-class rides in the US and Italy to business-class trips around Canada, and sleeper cars through Germany and Austria.

I take more trains than anyone else I know. 

My interest in train journeys began in late 2021 with 30-hour rides between NYC and Miami in Amtrak sleeper accommodations , where I tried out the US rail line's private roomette and bedroom cabins.

A few months later, I rode in first and business class on Amtrak Acela trains between NYC and Baltimore. Then, I traveled by Amtrak to Canada and used the country's Via Rail train line to travel through the eastern provinces of Ontario and Québec.

Most recently, I traveled by train through four European countries , — Germany, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland — trying out classes from coach to first class, and sleeper cabins.

Along the way, I've grown fond of train travel . I've found it's a sustainable way to get around the world that offers unparalleled views along the way. I'm excited to continue riding the rails in 2023 and try out new accommodations and routes.

On the East Coast of the US, Acela Amtrak trains are getting a brand new fleet in 2023.

Acela is an Amtrak express train on the East Coast with only business and first-class seating. In 2023, it's getting a new fleet of upgraded cars, according to Amtrak's website .

When I traveled in first and business class on the Acela, I thought it was a good experience, but I think its new fleet will be even better. 

Although Acela seats were large and spacious, I found that the seats in business and first class on the Acela train were stiff and uncomfortable. But the new fleet will have nearly 25% more seating, as well as brand new seats with winged headrests, according to Amtrak's website . Each seat will also include personal outlets, USB ports, and reading lights, according to the same source. 

During my first-class Acela ride, I thought that the food menu was limited but the new trains will offer a wider selection of food, too, according to the same source. 

I also experienced motion sickness on my Acela rides, but the same source says that the new Acela trains will be faster, smoother rides.

It's unclear how much these rides will cost, but in the past, I've paid $121 for a business-class ticket and an additional $152 to upgrade to first class.

Since I live on the East Coast, I will definitely be taking a new Acela train in 2023 to compare it to my previous Acela experience. 

Nightjet, an overnight train operator in Europe, is coming out with a new fleet of upgraded sleeper cabins in 2023.

Austrian Federal Railway's OBB Nightjet train is a rail line that operates overnight routes between Austria, Italy, France, and the Netherlands, and can go as fast as 143 miles per hour, according to its website .

Nightjet trains have regular assigned seats, sleeper cars with bunks of four or six, and couchette cars, which are seats that fold out into couches in shared cabins.

Next year, the rail line is upgrading its overnight trains, according to a press release from OBB Nightjet , with new, more spacious sleeper cabins that will include a seating area in addition to beds, according to the press release.

I think that's a great thing, especially because when I traveled in an OBB Nightjet shared sleeper cabin from Austria to Italy, I found it to be cramped and uncomfortable when I shared the space with six other people. 

And since I also learned during my Nightjet ride that bunking with strangers isn't for me — I need more space and privacy to be comfortable falling asleep — I'm the most excited to try Nightjet's forthcoming mini cabins for solo travelers. These sleeper cabins will be private, enclosed spaces with a storage area, an adjustable folding table with a mirror, clothing hooks, and a luggage locker, according to the press release.

Pricing for the new accommodations is not yet available online, but in the past, I paid $477 for a week-long Eurail pass and an additional $44 for a shared sleeper cabin accommodation on OBB Nightjet. 

Great Journeys New Zealand is debuting its multi-day train journeys with overnight stops in various locations.

When I heard about train operator Great Journeys New Zealand 's new multi-day tours coming in 2023, I thought it sounded like the railroad version of a cruise, except instead of sleeping onboard, the tickets include hotel stays at every stop.

With itineraries from six to 17 days, the tours link three scenic train journeys together: the TranzAlpine  from Christchurch to Greymouth, the  Northern Explorer  between Auckland and Wellington, and  Coastal Pacific from Picton to Christchurch, according to CN Traveler . 

On these trains, guests can get off the train for excursions along the route ranging from whale spotting to wine tasting, according to the same source. Some meals and activities are included in the price of the ticket, the company's website says .

These journeys cost between $3,000 and $13,000 each, according to the same source.

I would love to take one of these journeys, not only to see this part of the world, which has been a dream of mine since I was a kid, but to do it by train. I also think these itineraries would make it easy to do and see so much with little planning.

Usually, when I travel by train, I plan how I'm going to spend my time in each place separate from my rail travel. But Great Journeys New Zealand offers more of an experiential journey, in my opinion.

Japan's exclusive luxury rail journeys onboard the Train Suite Shiki-Shima is accepting international applicants for 2023. I'd love to be one of them.

Train Suite Shiki-Shima is a luxury train for sightseeing over multiple days in Japan.

The train departs from Tokyo and has 2-4 day journeys with varying itineraries from the port city of Yamanashi to the Kanto region on the pacific coast, according to the company's website .

Based on pictures I viewed online, I think the train's interior looks unique to any train I've been on or seen. There's a tree-themed lounge designed to be reminiscent of forests, as well as two observation cars with wide, geometric contoured windows, and a hand-woven carpet flooring that looks like moss. And passengers sleep onboard the train in accommodations ranging from a suite room with a private bathroom to two-story suites that include a cypress bath.

With a max capacity of just 34 passengers, these are intimate trips and tickets for these train journeys are only available by lottery, their website states .

Tickets start at $2,343.15 per person, according to Japan Rail Pass . Travelers can apply for 2023 tickets on the company's website .

I've never been to Japan, save for a layover in the airport in Narita, so I'd love to explore the country by rail. And the interior appears to be so luxurious and stunning that I wouldn't pass up the opportunity if accepted. 

The legendary Orient Express is bringing new trains to Italy with the same classic feel as the original iconic train.

The Orient Express is an iconic luxury overnight train between Paris and Istanbul that ran from 1883 to 1977, according to Britannica and CN Traveler .

Since then, versions of the Orient Express have served other routes, like London to Paris, according to the same source. In 2023, the new Orient Express La Dolce Vita will take travelers through Italy and to Istanbul, Paris, and Split, Croatia.

The design of the six new Orient Express La Dolce Vita trains is inspired by the original Orient Express with Italian accents, according to CN Traveler, and will have plush carpets, brass accents, and artwork on display.

Six trains will take six different routes around Italy as well as into France, Turkey, and Croatia, Travel and Leisure reports . For around $2,262 per night, travelers can spend 1-3 nights on the trains, according to Lonely Planet . 

Passengers will sleep onboard in private cabins in rooms with chairs that fold into beds, a private bathroom, and a dressing room, according to the company's website . The ticket price also includes all onboard meals, according to Luxury Train Club .

This trip would be a dream come true for me since I've never traveled on a luxury train, nor such an iconic one. And when I traveled by train through Italy this year, I thought it had some of the most stunning views I've ever seen from a train window. 

My 2022 train travels have awakened my adventurous side, and I can't wait to try out new routes and lines in 2023.

I traveled on more trains in 2022 than any year prior and my new experiences on the rails have only made me more interested in railroad travel. 

From taking unexplored routes to experiencing new accommodations, I hope my 2023 is filled with more train travel, both in my home country of the US and abroad, including perhaps a few — or all — of the new trains mentioned here.

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Similar trips, trip inclusions.

• 13 nights in premium accommodation
• Services of a Great Rail Journeys Tour Escort
• 17 meals - 13 breakfasts and 4 dinners
• Travel by Limited Express Romancecar and “Shinkansen” Bullet Train
• Visit the Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre
• Cruise to the World Heritage-listed Miyajima Island
• Discover Hida Folk Village, an open-air museum showcasing ancient farm dwellings
• Experience a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto
• Itinerary and inclusions subject to change
• Itinerary operated by Great Rail Journeys
• Prices include airport transfers, tipping and most porterage
• An overnight bag will need to be packed for days 3-4, 8-9 and 11-13
• Cherry Blossom season in Japan usually lasts from late March to May, however due to changeable weather blooms cannot be guaranteed, even during spring months
• Prices are for land/rail and ferry only. Flights not included unless specified

Designed exclusively for our guests

Insider Experience

Enjoy an included special or unique excursion or event

Arrive Sapporo

Arrive in Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, Japan’s most northerly island and transfer to your hotel. This evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner with your fellow travellers and Great Rail Journeys Tour Escort.

Stay: Two Nights, Keio Plaza Hotel Sapporo

INSIDER EXPERIENCE

Explore Ayoma Villa, learn about the herring fishing trade, and the great wealth one family gained and admire the stunning villa. Created over 6 years the wood-frame construction is adorned inside with paintings, calligraphy, and more than 2,000 panes of handmade glass.

Discover the delights of Otaru, a charming port city in Hokkaido. Captivating visitors with its historic canal, romantic atmosphere, fresh seafood, and snow-covered streets in the winter. Visit the fascinating Music Box Museum with its collection of thousands of music boxes before heading to your Insider Experience. Later, head back to Sapporo and enjoy an evening at leisure.

Sapporo, Hakodate

This morning, travel to Hakodate on the Super Hokuto limited express train.

Enjoy your Insider Experience journey to one of Hokkaido Island’s main cities. This afternoon, take a sightseeing tour of the local sights by coach, including Goryokaku, a star-shaped fortress that dates back 150 years. Later, ascend Mount Hakodate via ropeway for fabulous views of the city.

Stay: Hakodate, La Vista Hakodate Bay

Hakodate, Tokyo

Visit Hakodate’s vibrant fish market, where fresh produce is bought and sold in a lively atmosphere.

Travel by bullet train to Tokyo.

Explore the vivid array of stalls at Hakodate’s fish market, which boasts fresh seafood, local vegetables, fruit and sweets, and look out for tanks of live shellfish and clusters of crab. After your visit, travel to Tokyo by bullet train, speeding through the countryside to Japan’s modern capital.

Stay: Two Nights, Tokyo, Keio Plaza Hotel

A full-day sightseeing tour of Tokyo showcases the old and the new combining ancient sites with the modern high tech world. Visit the Imperial Palace Plaza, explore Asakusa Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo and take in the energy of the famous Shibuya Crossing, the busiest intersection on the planet.

Tokyo, Hakone

Travel by Limited Express Romancecar train to Hakone.

In Hakone, enjoy a scenic ride on the Hakone Ropeway over the Owakudani Valley and Lake Ashi, as well as a boat cruise across the serene Lake Ashi, a former crater. Continue to your hotel, where you will spend one night.

Stay: The Prince Hakone Lake Ashinoko

Hakone, Matsumoto

Visit the Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre, dedicated to its namesake, where you will learn more about this world-famous symbol.

An exciting Insider Experience awaits you today. After viewing the Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre, stop en route to Matsumoto for a visit to the Chihiro Art Museum Azumino to learn more about her life and art works.

Stay: Matsumoto, Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu

Matsumoto, Takayama

Visit Matsumoto Castle, an imposing fortress completed in 1593.

Visit Hida Folk Village, an open-air museum of rustic farm dwellings. Set on a hillside overlooking the Takayama Valley, some of the buildings in the village date back 500 years.

This morning, visit the miso factory for an insight into the production of this traditional ingredient followed by a tasting. Continue to Matsumoto Castle, an impressive fortress completed in 1593 and celebrated as a National Treasure of Japan. After an Insider Experience, continue to Takayama, where you’ll enjoy an overnight stay in this atmospheric town.

Stay: Takayama, Hotel Associa Takayama Resort

Takayama, Kyoto

Travel by bullet train to Kyoto.

Nestled among mountainous surrounds, Takayama’s narrow streets and wooden houses appear almost untouched by time. Explore Takayama and admire the ancient architecture on a guided tour featuring Miyagawa Market, Sannomachi Street and Takayama Jinya, the old government house, before bidding farewell and travelling to Japan’s former capital.

Stay: Two Nights, Kyoto, Righa Royal Hotel Kyoto

Take part in a traditional tea ceremony.

See the highlights of Kyoto today on a tour beginning at the Kyoto Railway Museum, which houses a variety of trains from the earliest steam locomotives to the ultra-modern bullet trains. Continue to the iconic Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) before a stroll through the tranquil Arashiyama Sagano Bamboo Forest. After taking part in a special Insider Experience, finish the day with a stroll around the Gion area, Kyoto’s famous geisha district.

Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima

Travel by bullet train to Hiroshima.

Today you’ll explore Nara, a former capital of Japan, and home to eight World Heritage-listed sites. Take in the Todai-ji Temple where you’ll find the Great Buddha, a 13th-century bronze statue. Continue to beautiful Nara Park, a delightful deer sanctuary spread over almost 530 hectares, before transferring to Osaka, where you’ll catch a bullet train to Hiroshima.

Stay: Two Nights, Hiroshima, Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel

Hiroshima, Miyajima Island, Hiroshima

Enjoy a scenic boat ride out to the famous Miyajima Island and uncover a tranquil island with is famed red Shinto shrine, a World Heritage site.

A guided tour today takes you around Hiroshima. From the Peace Memorial Park to the A-Bomb Dome, your tour explores the city’s tragic devastation during World War II. Later travel to Miyajima Island for your Insider Experience.

Hiroshima, Fukuoka

Ride a bullet train to Hakata.

Admire the impressive collection of displays displaying Japanese culture at the Kyushu National Museum, the first national museum that opened in Japan over 100 years ago.

After breakfast, journey to Hakata and take in the Dazaifu Tenman-gu Shrine. This evening, enjoy a Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant.

Stay: Fukuoka, Hotel New Otani Hakata

Depart Fukuoka

Transfer to Fukuoka Airport this morning after breakfast.

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Discovering Japan

Tokyo to Osaka

The Best Train Trips in the World: 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards

By Todd Plummer

Ah, the allure of train trips . Adventurers and the eco-conscious are drawn to this glamorous, old-world mode of exploration for the impeccable slow-travel vibes, but there’s also something to be said about the perspective found onboard a train; you’re experiencing the landscape and scenery in a way that you can’t experience in any other mode of travel. A train trip often brings you where everyday roads cannot, whether it’s through untouched Malaysian jungles on the revamped Belmond Eastern & Oriental itineraries relaunching in 2024, or high into the Canadian Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer. For our 36th annual Readers’ Choice Awards —which capture the travel experiences our readers love best, from hotels and airlines to cruises , islands , and luggage —we called on all of you to rank the best of the best rail journeys out there. Here, dear readers, is how the dice fell.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

20. Inca Rail, South America

If you’re interested in taking a train to Machu Picchu (and unless you’re a mountain goat, we suggest you do), Inca Rail offers a level of convenience that is difficult to match—and it’s also worth mentioning that the First Class service is priced more accessibly than other luxury operators servicing the same route. While on board, you can expect a tasty menu prepared with organic ingredients grown right in the Sacred Valley, live Peruvian music, ample windows through which you can admire the staggering Andean scenery, and a spacious Observatory Lounge complete with open-air balcony. For fresh and frothy Pisco sours this good, this is one train that’s well worth the price of admission.

19. Transcantabrico Gran Lujo, Spain

Take in all the sights and flavors of Spain ’s iconic northern coastline on this luxurious sleeper train, which over the course of a week makes its way between San Sebastián and Santiago de Compostela. You’ll enjoy on-board cuisine that celebrates each of the distinct regions through which this train passes, from Galicia to Basque Country. A unique aspect of this train is that it remains stationary overnight, allowing for late-night excursions and explorations that are uncommon on other sleeper train experiences.

18. Glacier Express, Switzerland

It’s been said that the Glacier Express is the slowest express in the world–it takes eight hours to traverse the 180-mile journey–but boy, do the views here invite a slow journey. Connecting the resort towns of Zermatt and Saint Moritz, the train provides an up-close perspective of some of this mountainous country’s most iconic natural features, including the Matterhorn, Piz Bernina, and the Rhine Gorge (dubbed Switzerland’s Grand Canyon). Book in Excellence Class and you’ll be served Champagne at your seat, followed by a six-course meal complete with wine pairings.

17. The Canadian, Canada

Take in every mile of the vast Canadian landscape from The Canadian , a special sleeper service offered by VIA Rail, the country’s national rail carrier. Keep in mind that this train is more about sightseeing from the cars than actually getting off and doing anything. But if you’re traveling in the comfort of Prestige Class—with your own private cabin, private washroom and built-in TV screen monitor with video selection—you’ll be perfectly content to take in the journey from the privacy of your very own picture window.

Jessica Puckett

Hannah Towey

16. The Ghan, Australia

Completed in 1929, The Ghan runs through the heart of the Australian continent , from Adelaide in the south to Darwin in the north. It may have only started running its current route in 2004, but its history dates to the 19th century, its name harkening to the Afghan camel trainers and riders who first helped chart a course through the country’s interior. The three-day all-inclusive journey sees the train lilting its way through Australia’s Red Centre with diverse landscapes passing by. Travel through the expansive ridges of the MacDonnell Ranges, witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Simpsons Gap, and visit the opal town of Coober Pedy.

15. JR Kyushu 36+3, Japan

This train’s unusual name derives from Kyushu being the 36th-largest island in the world, and there being three key stakeholders on this journey: the passengers, the local community, and the rail company, JR Kyushu. It isn’t a sleeper train, instead offering a series of weeklong roster of one-day itineraries around the perimeter of Kyushu–a do one, do them all, or do as many as you like situation–but the journey is no less enriching for it. The inside feels like a ryokan, featuring immaculate woodwork made from local techniques, comfortable furniture, and a mix of private and communal spaces. It’s a gorgeous way to get off the beaten track on this gorgeous Japanese island, packing in a number of stops and towns into a single day of productive–yet comfortable–sightseeing.

14. Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train, Southeast Asia

The E&O is the stuff of train enthusiasts’ legends, and in February 2024, this storied train will at long last resume service after its pandemic-era pause–sort of. The train’s journey originally connected Singapore and Bangkok, but as of the new year will offer journeys through the jungles and coastlines of Malaysia, but all originating in and returning to Singapore. It isn’t the classic E&O route, but these new itineraries will offer deeper explorations of Malaysia than ever before, including guided snorkeling on Langkawi and excursions to Taman Negara National Park. Despite the new itineraries, the train still has all the old world touches that people love: Order a Singapore Sling in the Bar Car, take it to the outdoor viewing platform as the Malaysian jungle rolls on by, and you just might forget what year we’re living in.

13. Northern Belle, Europe

It’s all about the food—and the scenery, too, but mostly about the food—onboard this lovingly restored 1930s train , which zig-zags its way across the English, Scottish and Welsh countrysides. Each of the journeys on offer are day trips, so they require less of a time (and money) commitment than other luxury trains. But what the Northern Belle lacks in length she more than makes up for in quality: The meal services are exquisite, offering fine dining crafted mostly from U.K. suppliers, so you can enjoy classic British fare as the heaths, meadows, and dales roll on by.

12. The Maharajas' Express, India

There are luxury sleeper trains, and then there are luxury sleeper trains like the Maharaja’s Express , where a greeting of marigold garlands and rose petals showered at your feet kicks off the journey before your personal butler escorts you to your room. The Junior Suite rooms are surprisingly spacious, especially by train travel standards, and come with full-sized closets, comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and satellite TVs. Both of the on board watering holes–the Safari Bar and the Raja Club–have plenty of chairs, comfy sofas, books and board games. Each day of the itinerary includes special opportunities to experience India through the train’s luxurious and singular perspective: like an early-morning champagne breakfast on a private hillside overlooking the Taj Mahal.

11. Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland

It’s about the journey, not the destination, right? Nowhere is train travel more indulgent—or convenient!—than on Belmond’s Royal Scotsman , which departs from and arrives at Edinburgh’s Waverley Station. With only 40 guests onboard, the train circumnavigates the heart of the Scottish Highlands, passing such landmarks as the Kyle of Lochalsh and Cairngorms National Park. There’s even a dedicated spa carriage, where the specialists are trained to synchronize their motions with the natural lilts and tilts of the train. If that’s not luxury, we’re not sure what is.

10. Belmond Hiram Bingham, A Belmond Train, South America

Named after the U.S. explorer who supposedly “discovered” Machu Picchu in 1911, the Belmond Hiram Bingham train line is as grand as the man’s claims. The round-trip journey connects the city of Poroy (just west of Cuzco) to the Lost City and Sacred Valley of Machu Picchu. The Belmond Hiram Bingham turns on the turn-of-the-20th-century charm, from gleaming polished wood and brass surfaces to lavish meals and accommodations, which offer plenty of space to stretch out: the perfect setting for viewing the mountains and rivers zooming past the window.

9. Golden Chariot, India

Experience a mix of Southern India’s greatest hits and lesser-explored destinations on board the iconic purple and gold Golden Chariot , which connects the Indian states of Karnataka, Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry. All itineraries depart from Bengaluru, with options for both three-night and six-night journeys. This train’s strength is its access to off-beat attractions than what you’ll find on the well-worn Golden Triangle, such as the ruins of Hampi. With sparse crowds, and a comfortable train to retreat to at the end of each day, it’s an approach to India that captures all the magic this country has to offer.

8. Golden Eagle Danube Express, Europe

A pioneer in luxury trains for three decades, Golden Eagle is perhaps best known for its Silk Road and Trans-Siberian routes, but the Danube Express unlocks an approach to Southern and Eastern Europe which is no less breathtaking and engaging. The “Castles of Transylvania” route from Istanbul to Budapest is particularly unique–spend all day learning about Vlad the Impaler’s history through guided tours, then spend all night luxuriating in the comfort of the bar car or in the privacy of your room. It’s a combination of Europe’s best cities and most dramatic natural landscapes that is hard to experience in one go any other way.

7. Rocky Mountaineer, North America

Traveling in a coach outfitted with picture windows and glass-dome ceilings means that a Rocky Mountaineer journey leaves no sight unseen as you traverse the dramatic scenery between Vancouver , British Columbia and Banff or Jasper, Alberta. Sample local Canadian beer, wine and snacks as you kick back and enjoy the ride. The staff’s friendly service and animated storytelling help bring the landscape to life. It’s personal touches like those which keep travelers coming away from this trip amply satisfied time and time again. Since it was founded in 1990, Rocky Mountaineer has transported more than two million guests, making it the largest privately-owned premium tourist train in the world.

6. Rovos Rail, Africa

This extravagant railway has been traveling throughout Africa for over thirty years. The experiences start before you even board—when departing from Pretoria, Rovos Rail travelers are granted exclusive access to a private lounge, where Champagne and canapés greet them—and a strict “no cellphone” rule is maintained for your own good. Enjoy the moment(s) provided by this line, which range from cozy digs to formal-attired evenings, as well as full-sized, freestanding clawfoot tubs in the most grand compartments. All Rovos Rail journeys include off-train cultural, historical and safari excursions so guests can experience all the wonders that Southern Africa has to offer. The three-night Cape Town journey is a classic, but if you’re feeling extra adventurous and have a few more nights to spare, opt for the newer fifteen-day “Trail of Two Oceans” itinerary, originating in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, crossing Zambia, traversing a sliver of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and concluding in Lobito, Angola.

5. Belmond Andean Explorer, A Belmond Train, South America

Weaving through the Peruvian Andes at 14,000 feet, the Belmond Andean Explorer transports passengers between Arequipa and Cusco on one- and two-night journeys. There are just thirty-five cabins on board, each outfitted with alpaca wool blankets and handwoven fabrics for an authentic yet luxe feel. Two dining cars and two bar cars serve the whims of every guest with bites like alpaca tortellini and (of course) champagne. The train also makes excursions to Lake Titicaca , where guests can learn about local customs, visit Incan ruins, and take in breath-taking views.

4. British Pullman, A Belmond Train, England

The British Pullman ’s experience is magical no matter where you’re seated. Once you depart London , you’ll embark on a journey through the bucolic British countryside, touring cities and towns like Cambridge, York, and Canterbury along the way. The restored carriages date back to the 1920s and 1930s, so expect Art Deco touches, polished interiors, and classically prepared multi-course meals—this is the same train line that has served British royalty and government officials for years, after all.

3. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe

Year after year, the world’s most iconic locomotive continues to be a standard-setter in luxury. Of course, the decadent interiors are a fantasy of 1920’s Art Deco design, but it’s the impeccable service that keeps this train firmly ensconced in a class of its own. Bags are whisked off from the platform and magically reappear in your cabin, no glass ever runs empty, and the beds seem to make themselves anytime you step outside of your cabin. By day you can revel in the scenery of French countrysides and Swiss mountain scenes, and by night, the formal dress code feels anything but stuffy—in fact, playing dress up and making your way to the Champagne bar is, we think, one of the coolest experiences anyone could have on a train. For 2023, this over-the-top train is getting even more luxe updates, including eight new suites, two of which are original 1920s and 30s carriages carefully restored by expert French craftsmen and designers–so there’s no time like the present to book that bucket-list trip.

2. Palace on Wheels, India

India’s best-known train, the Palace on Wheels , offers a number of trips that range from a couple days to week-long excursions. Embarking from New Delhi through the Land of Kings, trips take you through the famed Pink City of Jaipur, in Rajasthan, where guests are greeted by majestic UNESCO sites like the Amer Fort as well as 16th century palaces. You can also visit Agra, home to the Taj Mahal and the perfect stop for a tour of some of the country's most iconic sites. Along the way, enjoy regional cuisine in well-appointed, colorful carriages decked out in Indian textiles.

1. Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan

Train lovers consider this opulent Japanese locomotive among the most spacious and comfortable of them all. Every inch of Seven Stars' Kyushu train—from the beds, to the bathroom sinks, to the woodwork, to the porcelain dinner plates—is handmade by Japanese artisans, and the service is simply exquisite, with each journey limited to a positively intimate twenty passengers; but it’s not just about the onboard experience with Seven Stars. These four-day, three-night trips travel a circuit around the island of Kyushu, making stops at the region’s best shrines, onsens, porcelain studios, and more, so you truly feel like you’re exploring an authentic side of Japan , far away from the more obvious tourist tracks.

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Very positive experience making a phone booking.

Very easy to make a phone booking. All our questions about luggage were answered and advice about booking hotels and rail journeys before and after our trip was given - we have booked for June 2025 so it is too early to book rail tickets. We were given a rough idea of when our outgoing train might be leaving St.Pancras International and told we would to be there an hour beforehand.

Date of experience : 14 April 2024

Norway to Rhone

We have already enjoyed holidays with GRJ around the world and we have always been treated well. The booking process is a pleasure as there is always time to share experiences and memories and advice is freely and generously given. On this occasion Lynn was helpful regarding the quality and experiences of this holiday and I enjoyed our conversation. At no time was I coerced into something that I did not require..indeed she actually was able to offer some help/advice on a holiday which we take with GRJ in a few months. We were advised of an extra discount on our 2025 which we had not been aware of and we can now sit back and look forward to this holiday which coincides with the month of our 60th wedding anniversary. Thanks Lynn and GRJ

Date of experience : 16 April 2024

Very friendly and knowledgeable staff

Very friendly and knowledgeable staff who answered all my pre booking queries. Had no hesitation in booking this second holiday with GRJ after our first adventure with them.

Date of experience : 15 April 2024

A RELIABLE EXPERIENCED COMPANY

We are only at the organising stage of our holiday but have found your Customer Service to be Very Good and Helpful. We have holidayed with your sister company R.Discoveries and so were confident of good service.

Date of experience : 17 April 2024

Just the help with the booking by phone…

Just the help with the booking by phone that I've come to expect. A friendly voice, patient (with the technology and me!), careful and efficient. Name of Adele. And the confirmation email came promptly the same day.

Website excellent, payment online frustrating

The website is excellent and very easy to use, particularly choosing a date and seeing the price once a holiday was been chosen. However, after completing an easy booking process on-line, I was unable to book using either Amex or Barclaycard and was left with a frustrating 'complete your booking' instruction with no way of doing so. I rang the phone line the following day and competed the booking - luckily most of my details had been saved. If I had been in a different frame of mind, I might well have decided not to bother going ahead with the holiday.

Date of experience : 09 April 2024

Reply from Great Rail Journeys

Dear Mr Goldring, Thank you for your review. We're delighted to hear that you found our website easy to use. I am truly sorry to hear it was not as smooth as we would have hoped for you to pay using your card of choice, our team is actively working on resolving this issue to ensure a seamless booking experience for all our customers We very much look forward to welcoming you on tour with us. Best wishes, Kate

Professional Service

A couple of phone calls was all it needed to have some questions answered and then a very quick and efficient booking process over the phone. Good service by knowledgeable staff.

Happy that we got the last two spaces

Luckily for us Thomas was very patient and was able to update the tour we were enquiring about to say there was only two spaces left, which is exactly what we wanted to hear! He confirmed everything and was able to hold for a couple of days, but we only needed one day to decide to book this adventure. Very helpful Thomas, thank you.

Date of experience : 11 April 2024

Phone answered promptly

Phone answered promptly, friendly and helpful rep who listened to my questions/requests . Successful booking, now looking forward to the trip. Have used Great Rail a number of times and never had a bad experience! Thank you.

Date of experience : 13 April 2024

Initial request for information made…

Initial request for information made via the website. There was a quick and useful response. Subsequently the tour details were published and any follow up questions were answered. Booking was simple and thorough by the efficient staff.

Date of experience : 12 April 2024

It's worth a phone call

Very helpful, friendly and knowledgeable adviser. I wanted a tour date that had sold out and a few days later he telephoned to say he had secured a place for me. He had also put a hold on an alternative tour as back up. A happy and satisfied customer.

Date of experience : 06 April 2024

Quick and no hassle

Very short waiting time and knowledgeable person able to deal with all inquiries. Booking was quick and easy with confirmation email arriving within a few minutes.

Good website and when I contacted them…

Good website and when I contacted them by phone they answered and dealt with my question efficiently

I have read about complaints on a FB…

I have read about complaints on a FB page. Yes some will complain . This is my first experience with TUI and so far it has been exceptional. Easy to book.. great customer service ..and quick to respond. Of course it might all go pear shaped and l could be writing on FB but at the moment l am fully satisfied and tickled pink with this great service

I booked my holiday on line and it was…

I booked my holiday on line and it was very easy. Lots of information about the trip before booking.

Easy to book online

Easy to book online and when wanted an upgrade very helpful and friendly customer service Looking forward to my trip

A late booking.

I booked the holiday by phone and the experience was excellent. It was a late booking but Lyndsey took me through the process efficiently. Everything was explained to me and I am confident that all my questions were answered.

Courteous, efficient agent (Simon) made booking quick and easy. Feeling confident that our next GRJ holiday will be as well-organised and enjoyable as previous ones.

No choice of menu or where to sit!

The trip we took was on the whole very good. However what they don’t tell you (maybe this is the norm on these types of trips) is that on the included dinners you get no choice of menu, other than if you are a vegetarian/vegan or have allergies. In fact with the exception of one of the hotels they don’t even bother telling what you are being given!! You also have to sit in a certain part of the restaurants no choice and are lumped together on large tables with everyone else. Whereas it’s nice to be sociable, sometimes you would like the choice not to be when you’ve been stuck for hours on a coach or train journey with the same people!!

Date of experience : 10 February 2024

My booking was handled perfectly by a…

My booking was handled perfectly by a very efficient and pleasant young lady. I had also had discussions by email with a travel advisor who was also very helpful and efficient.

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A ‘cruise train’ refers to a luxury sleeper train offering courses that allow passengers to enjoy multiple sightseeing spots, similar to a cruise liner, hence the term. 

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Japan Cultural Walking Adventure

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Tales of Samurai and Shoguns. Gleaming bullet trains and tranquil country ryokans. Boisterous Karaoke and the mystical twang of the shamisen. Japan is a land where ancient tradition and modernity blend and blur into an unforgettable and utterly unique cultural experience. Our itinerary begins in the clamor of Tokyo, slips into the serene forest of Hakone in the shadow of Mount Fuji, and culminates in sophisticated, historic Kyoto. Exceptional local guides decode the culture and provide insight into rituals that define life today as they have for a thousand years or more. Along the way, you’ll meet practitioners of the tea ceremony, a sushi master who teaches you his craft, wood artisans, sake brewers and others. We’ll also arrange dining experiences that will treat you to the spectrum of styles for which Japan is known. Our hotels, from 5-star city properties to a mountainside inn overlooking a volcanic lake, are among the very finest Japan has to offer.

• Begin your all-access dive into Japanese culture in bustling Tokyo, finding yourself side-by-side with a chef to learn the craft of sushi-making. 
• Take a guided walk in the old town of Asakusa before feeling the heart-pounding reverberations of the Taiko drum in your private lesson.
• Escape to the hills of Hakone, a nature reserve, and hot springs area close to Tokyo. 
• Follow your guide on a stroll to Hakone Shrine, hidden in the woods. 
• Ride the ropeway tram for high mountain views, and enjoy a surprising visit to the Hakone Open Air Art Museum. 
• Take the famed bullet train to Kyoto, the hub of traditional culture and home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the spectacular Golden Pavilion 
• Receive your invitation to participate in and learn about the traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
• Walk in the tea farms of Wazuka, and if the season permits, pick your own tea. 
• End your week with a rare chance to experience the hospitality and entertainment of the geisha.

Starting Point:

Ending point:.

Dates & Prices

The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have and the lower your price. And you can always change your mind — you won’t be charged to transfer to a different trip before your final payment is due. Talk with one of our travel experts at 800-200-3887 .

Select our “Family Departure” to travel with other families.

Why Choose Classic Journeys

Travel + Leisure has awarded Classic Journeys the #1 World’s Best Tour Operator multiple times and says, "Classic Journeys provides unbeatable access to experiences around the globe." Here’s what that access means for you.

• Experience the world on foot and at eye level . Each day, join your guide on the most cinematic footpaths in the region.
• Exceptional full-time local guides who become your well-connected friend. Our amazing guides are with you throughout each day of the tour, share their lifelong connections as well as engaging anecdotes about the history and culture of the region.
• Small groups that provide you unrivaled access. An average of fewer than 10 guests per departure means we can offer you special access to sites like Stonehenge so you experience the stone circle when it’s closed to the general public, a guided visit to Zion Narrows that other companies cannot arrange because of larger group sizes, and vineyard walks with a count and countess in Tuscany.
• Award-winning hotels are waiting for you at the end of every day. Luxuriate in the finest and most distinctive accommodations in the region you’re exploring, including rainforest lodges, 16th century villas, and award-winning properties that show up on World’s Best and Gold lists.
• Eat like (and with) the locals. Food is a foolproof way into the hearts, homes and history of the places you visit with us. From gourmet picnics to coveted local restaurants, our meals offer you opportunities to explore native food traditions and fine dining.
• Handcrafted itineraries with all activities included. With our long-term friendships, we know our walking tour regions more personally than anyone else. So you get thoughtfully curated itineraries that combine explorations of the villages, organic farms, archeological sites and the people who know them best.
• Sustainable travel that supports the places you’re visiting. We put our local currency into the pockets of the people who live where we travel. It’s your guarantee that you’ll have authentic, up-close experiences on your trip. Best of all, our person-to-person approach helps sustain their ways of life.

Accommodations

We spend years cultivating personal relationships with our hoteliers to provide you thoughtfully selected accommodations that reveal the true character of the region. Here is a sampling of our favorite hotels on this tour. 

Hakone Kowakien Ten-Yu

This recently opened sanctuary is everything you want in a ryokan—a sense of remoteness, tatami-matted floors, and a private open-air onsen bath. Situated in the mountains, there are lovely views all around of the mountains and forest.

Conrad Tokyo

Located near the Ginza, heart of the city, this glamorous contemporary hotel overlooks magnificent views of Tokyo’s skyline. The luxurious guest rooms are decorated in minimalist Japanese design. The property has a variety of fine restaurants and a spa.

The Thousand Kyoto

A luxury hotel in the Shimogyo Ward district, it’s amazing location puts you close to top attractions. Relax in the modern, spacious guestrooms. Stroll the serene garden, dine at the hotels two on-site restaurants or try a therapeutic spa treatment.

What’s Included

• Award-winning boutique hotels that provide you unlimited access to the people and places, culture and history you came to experience
• All breakfasts, 3 lunches and 4 dinners
• Full-time experienced guide(s) who are with you throughout the trip, handle behind-the-scenes logistics 
• Admissions to sites and other scheduled events as noted in the detailed daily itinerary
• Gratuities for hotels, meals and baggage
• All land transportation during the trip

Above & Beyond Benefits

Privileged access events.

• One-of-a-kind access to remarkable people, places and activities arranged just for you.

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Great Rail Journeys

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

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GREAT RAIL JOURNEYS: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

• (0.00 mi) Entire 2 Bed - Free Parking - No. 35 - The Cosy Collection Ltd
• (0.10 mi) Elegant City Centre Apartment with Minster Views + Free Parking!
• (0.11 mi) Black Swan Inn
• (0.07 mi) ALTIDO Affordable York
• (0.13 mi) City Centre Luxurious Apartment with Free Parking
• (0.08 mi) Arras Restaurant
• (0.11 mi) The Black Swan
• (0.21 mi) Wheldrakes
• (0.21 mi) Roberto Authentic Italian Gelato
• (0.21 mi) Little Italy