Train Travel in Japan: Beyond the Bullet Train

25 July 2025

When you think of train travel in Japan, what's the first thing that pops into your head? Let me guess—shinkansen, right? That futuristic-looking bullet train whizzing past Mount Fuji at breakneck speeds. While the shinkansen is definitely the poster child of Japanese rail travel, there's a whole other world of trains in Japan that too often get overshadowed—the scenic, the quirky, the slow, and the charmingly local.

So buckle up (or rather, sit back and relax), because we’re going on a ride through Japan’s lesser-known but equally magical train experiences. Forget speed—we’re chasing soul.

Why Go Beyond the Bullet Train?

Sure, the bullet train is fast and futuristic. But speed isn’t everything. Sometimes, the journey is more important than the destination—especially in Japan, where regional trains offer stunning scenery, deep cultural experiences, and plenty of quirky surprises.

Want to sip sake while gliding through snow-covered mountains? Or maybe you fancy hopping on a nostalgic steam train like it’s 1920 again? Maybe you’re a fan of themed trains featuring anime characters or fine dining experiences? Japan’s rail system has all that and more!

Trains as Experiences, Not Just Transport

Japan doesn’t just transport you—it transforms you. Local trains aren’t just ways to get from Point A to B. They invite you to slow down, connect with your surroundings, and really feel the rhythm of the countryside.

The Joy of Local and Scenic Trains

1. The Joyful Trains (JR Joyful Trains)

If you ever wanted a train to be more than just metal and wheels, meet the Joyful Trains—a series of special trains operated by JR (Japan Railways) that are pure delight on rails.

These trains are themed, aesthetically designed, and tailored to specific regional experiences. Imagine sliding into a seat made of cedar wood sourced from nearby mountains, or dining on a gourmet meal prepared with local ingredients as you gaze out at rice fields and coastal villages.

Notable mentions:

- Tohoku Emotion – This is luxury dining on tracks, rolling through north Japan with a full-course French-inspired meal using local produce.
- Pokémon With You Train – Going through the Tohoku region, this one is a kid’s dream come true — Pikachu-themed everything!
- Resort Shirakami – A laid-back ride along the Gono Line with jaw-dropping views of the Sea of Japan and the Shirakami mountains.

Each Joyful Train is unique, often available only on weekends or holidays. But they’re worth planning your trip around.

2. The Romantic SL Steam Trains

You’d think steam trains belong in a museum. Not in Japan. Here, they’re alive and puffing.

- SL Hitoyoshi (Kumamoto Prefecture) – A beautifully restored steam locomotive that takes you on a scenic ride along the Kuma River. The interiors? Lavish. The crew? Dressed to the nines. And the vibe? Totally nostalgic.

- SL Paleo Express (Saitama Prefecture) – This is the closest steam train to Tokyo and operates primarily during weekends. It’s perfect for a day trip, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant reds in autumn.

Think of it as stepping back in time—with Wi-Fi.

3. The Scenic Lines That Hug Nature

Sometimes the best part of the train ride is what you see out the window.

Gono Line (Tohoku)

This is hands-down one of the most scenic rail routes in Japan. It stretches 147 km along the Sea of Japan and cuts through pristine forests, sleepy fishing villages, and the UNESCO-listed Shirakami-Sanchi mountains.

Get a spot by the window—preferably on the Resort Shirakami, and don’t forget your camera.

Hisatsu Line (Kyushu)

This ride is a rollercoaster of emotions, in the best way. The line loops through the Kyushu mountains, with dramatic zigzags and switchbacks. It’s an engineering marvel wrapped in lush green beauty.

Get to Know Japan Through Its Regional Trains

Regional Flavors, Right from the Rails

One of the best parts about slow travel in Japan is the food. Not just any food—ekiben (bento boxes sold at train stations). Each region has its own twist.

From the oyster bento in Hiroshima to the wagyu beef version in Yonezawa, your tastebuds will be on their own journey. Some scenic trains even serve freshly cooked meals onboard, complete with local sake or craft beer.

If you're a foodie with a love of travel, this is your version of paradise.

Themed Trains: Quirky and Pure Fun

Japan gets creative when it comes to rail travel. Like, really creative.

- Hello Kitty Shinkansen (Osaka to Fukuoka) – Okay, yes, it’s a bullet train, but it’s SO over-the-top cute that it deserves a mention. Think pink everything.
- Anpanman Trains (Shikoku) – Dedicated to Japan's beloved superhero bread man. Kids and adults alike go bananas over this one.

Even if you're not an anime fan or a kawaii enthusiast, you'd be surprised how quickly you fall for the charm.

Slow Travel Is the New Luxury

It’s not just about saving money (though local trains are way cheaper than shinkansen). It’s about experiencing the heartbeat of Japan, outside the major tourist hubs.

Sit beside locals. Watch the elderly lady tend to her garden as you pass by. See school kids hop on with their oversized backpacks. This is real Japan—the one that isn’t filtered by Instagram or packed with souvenir shops.

Time slows down, and you start to notice the little things. The sound of the train clicking over the tracks. The smell of bento boxes. The sight of farmers working in the paddies.

It’s meditative. Healing, even.

Practical Tips for Riding Local Trains

1. Timing Is Everything

Some scenic or themed trains only run on weekends or specific seasons. Always check the schedule before planning your route.

2. Get a Rail Pass

If you plan to use trains a lot, consider regional rail passes. They’re often more cost-effective than the full JR Pass, especially if you’re sticking to one island like Kyushu or Tohoku.

3. Reserve Your Seat

Some of the special trains require a reservation—especially the Joyful Trains. You can do this at JR ticket offices or sometimes online.

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask

Language barriers? They exist. But Japan’s train staff are some of the most helpful people on the planet. Bring a translation app, smile, and just ask.

Must-Try Quirky Train Stations

- Seiryu Miharashi Station (Yamaguchi Prefecture) – A station with no entrance or exit. It literally exists only for passengers to enjoy the view of the Nishiki River.
- Kyu-Shirataki Station (Hokkaido) – Famous for staying open just to serve one student until she graduated. A beautiful testament to Japan's commitment to community.

Why You’ll Remember These Trains Forever

You won’t remember how fast you got from Tokyo to Osaka. But you WILL remember the tiny sake cup you drank from as a local musician played shamisen live on your train. You’ll remember the feeling of mist rolling into your cabin window as the countryside unfurled around you.

These aren't just train rides. They’re stories, stitched together with steel rails and scenery. And in a world obsessed with getting there faster, Japan’s local railways remind us that sometimes, the long way is the best way.

Final Thoughts

Train travel in Japan is so much more than high-speed trains and futuristic platforms. While the bullet trains are marvels in their own right, the heart and soul of Japanese rail travel lie in its slow trains, scenic routes, and one-of-a-kind experiences that bring you closer to the country’s people, culture, and landscapes.

So next time you're in Japan, skip the rush. Hop on a train that lets you soak in the view, share a smile with strangers, and feel the pulse of the land. Trust me, it’ll be the ride of your life.