Japan is a railroad superpower. It is a must-go destination for trainspotters from all over the world. In Japan, there are specific trains that focus only on tourism and some limited express trains even offer lunchboxes called ekiben unique to each region to enjoy while riding on trains. Check out our featured sightseeing train below!
Echigo TOKImeki Resort Setsugekka
Picture a countryside full of greenery against a snowy peak mountain and blue skies, with a vivid crimson train with specks of gold running across the fields. The contrast in colour of the train and the scenery is truly a magnificent view.
The train is built with broad windows – the largest in Japan – to give the best view of the mountains. Experience a resort-like atmosphere interior serving gourmet food, exquisite local sake, and heartwarming hospitality as the train passes through scenic landscapes and stops at historic towns along Niigata Prefecture.
The mouthwatering meals served at Setsugekka were made focusing on how to bring out the natural flavours and texture of the local ingredients. Enjoy a variety of Japanese, Western, and Chinese dishes that are colourful and reminiscent of a jewelry box, using a wide variety of ingredients from Joetsu City.
A sparkling wine brewed by Mr Takashi Honda, a winemaker from Nishigama, Niigata is offered as a welcome drink to all passengers (soft drinks are also available).
Facility Information :
Echigo TOKImeki Resort Setsugekka *
The train departs at JR Joetsu Myoko Station or Itoigawa Station (2 services per day)
Inquiry Center Business Hours: Weekdays 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (weekday)
Official Website >*Reservation required via website
Ekiben
It is a common culture in Japan that trains offer meals onboard. Limited express trains, bullet trains, also known as Shinkansen, and even local trains offer lunchboxes called ekiben. If you want to try regional specialities or local cuisine while on the go, having ekiben is the most convenient. Come find out these two unique ekibens with us!
Oigawa Railway Thomas Lunch Box
Oigawa Railway, more commonly known as Daitetsu, is a railway company that runs through Shizuoka Prefecture. What makes this railway unique is that it operates 1930s era steam trains on a nearly year-round basis. During holiday seasons, Daitetsu hosts their Day Out With Thomas™ event where visitors can visit Thomas and his friends just like the children’s television series.
As an added bonus, you can also enjoy a variety of ekiben, like the Thomas-themed ekiben onboard the train. The ekibens are filled with local specialities like Sakura prawns and green tea, which Shizuoka is famous for. Their ekiben bestseller is the Oigawa Furusato Bento, with plenty of side dishes, rice balls, freshwater fish, and traditional dishes wrapped in bamboo peel.
All the bentos offered are made using local and seasonal ingredients, and it is an absolute delight to find out what’s new in each season’s ekiben!
©2023 Gullane (Thomas) Limited.
Facility Information :
Oigawa Railway Thomas Lunch Box
Official Website >Kiyoken Seasonal Bento
One of Yokohama's most famous specialities is the shumai or steamed dumplings from Kiyoken since 1908. Their bestseller is the shumai bento, but there's a special bento that will let you experience the seasons of Japan.
Each season Kiyoken releases a limited edition bento depending on the season. Each bento showcases the seasonal local produce of Japan. There is Obento Haru (spring), Obento Aki (fall), Obento Fuyu (winter), and Obento Natsu (summer). Each bento symbolizes Japan's seasons, so if you want to sample the seasonal local produce, this is the one for you. It is a must-try when riding the bullet train going to and from Shin-Yokohama or other express trains that pass through Yokohama City.
Facility Information :
Kiyoken Seasonal Bento
Official Website >
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