Sightseeing and Resort Trains in Japan: Scenic Rides to Plan Around

Learn what Japan's sightseeing trains are, how examples such as Resort Shirakami and Yufuin no Mori run, and how to plan reservations and fares.

Published October 20, 2026 at 1:28 PM JST | By Tokyo Paul

Quick answer: Sightseeing or "resort" trains in Japan are special services built or refitted for the ride itself, with features such as panoramic windows, lounge seating, regional food and themed interiors. Most operate on scenic lines and need a seat reservation, and some also need an extra ticket. Check the operator's current timetable, fares and booking rules before planning around one.

What sightseeing trains are

Japan's railway companies run many trains designed to be enjoyed for the ride itself rather than only as transport. Enthusiasts often call them joyful trains, from the Japanese phrase "notte tanoshii ressha," meaning trains that are fun to ride. An encyclopedic overview describes them as rolling stock run by JR Group companies, traditionally for charters and events and now also for tourist excursions.

Typical features include tatami-style seating, salon seating, panoramic windows, lounge spaces, local food and drinks, and sometimes onboard activities. Many are converted from retired regular or express trains, while some are purpose-built. The designs reflect the region they serve, with interiors that echo local craft, scenery or history. For visitors, these services turn a transfer between two places into a highlight of the day. Because they are tied to particular lines and seasons, they work best as one anchor in a regional itinerary rather than a stand-alone goal.

Examples from different regions

The overview lists examples by operator. JR East runs services such as Resort Shirakami and Tohoku Emotion. JR Kyushu runs Yufuin no Mori, Aso Boy, A-Train and Ibusuki no Tamatebako, and the overview says the operator classes such trains as "D&S trains" (design and story trains). JR Hokkaido has norokko trains on scenic lines, such as Furano Biei Norokko and Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko, which the overview lists as ending service in 2026. JR West and JR Shikoku also run themed services, with names such as La Malle de Bois and Shikoku Mannaka Sennen Monogatari.

Services start, change and end over time, and some listed trains have already been withdrawn. That is why a current timetable from the operator is the only reliable source for what is running during your dates. Choosing a region first and then asking which scenic service runs there is usually easier than picking a train and then building the trip around it. Regional tourism sites and the operators' own pages usually list the services that serve an area, along with the seasons in which they run.

Resort Shirakami on the Gono Line

Resort Shirakami is a JR East service described as running between Akita and Aomori via the Ou Main Line and the Gono Line, a distance of about 247.6 kilometers in about five hours, with a list of about 23 stations. The Gono Line follows the scenic northern coast of Honshu. The service has been operated since March 1997.

The end cars of the original trainsets had large panoramic windows, and each end car today has a small lounge space behind the driver's cab. The inner cars have semi-open compartments. A published description states that all seats require advance reservation and that all cars are non-smoking. Details such as timetables, the seasonal stop at Senjojiki station and the number of daily workings change, so use JR East's own site for the current picture.

Yufuin no Mori in Kyushu

Yufuin no Mori is a Kyushu Railway Company service that runs from Hakata through Yufuin to Oita and Beppu, mainly on the Kyudai Main Line. Its first run was on March 11, 1989. The area is known for hot spring towns, so the train links a major city with onsen destinations.

The encyclopedic overview mentions an exclusive boxed meal, called an ekiben, that is sold only on board. Ekiben (station box lunches) are a long-standing travel tradition in Japan, and many sightseeing trains offer regional versions.

Seating, reservation rules and the days of operation are not covered in the published description, so check JR Kyushu's page for current details. The overview also notes that JR Kyushu groups several of its sightseeing trains under the D&S label.

Reservations and supplemental fees

The national tourism organization's rail pass guide notes that some popular sightseeing trains require reservations and that reservations are recommended during peak seasons and for the first or last trains of the day. It also explains that certain trains are not covered by a rail pass, and that some trains need an additional ticket before boarding. The guide gives no fee amounts and tells readers to check the official pass site for current prices.

In practice, a ride on a sightseeing train may involve a base fare plus a reserved-seat or special-service fee, and the rules differ among operators and between regular tickets and passes. Always confirm what a pass covers for a specific service.

Booking opens at times set by each operator, and popular services in cherry blossom or autumn color seasons can fill. Reserve early, keep the confirmation with your ticket, and read the operator's change and cancellation terms, which are set service by service.

Planning around a scenic ride

Look at the line, the season and the time of day. A train that follows a coastline may be best in daylight with clear skies, while a mountain route may be most striking in autumn color. Consider which side of the carriage has the view, if the operator specifies, and whether the panoramic seats are reserved or first-come.

Allow buffer time around the ride. Scenic trains often run once or a few times a day, so a missed connection can shift the day. Plan lunch around the train, since some services sell regional food or ekiben on board, and check whether anything needs to be ordered in advance. Pack light for the carriage, and keep a camera or phone ready, but follow the staff's rules about the windows and the seat areas. Luggage space on special trains can be limited, which is another reason to send larger bags ahead to the next hotel when the itinerary allows.

Etiquette and practical tips

On any train in Japan, keep voices low, silence the phone,, use headphones for sound, keep bags off seats and avoid blocking aisles. On sightseeing trains where many passengers are photographing the view, take turns at observation spots and be patient with those who need more time.

Be aware of weather. Heavy rain, snow or typhoons can cause delays or suspensions, so check the operator's notices and have an alternative plan. Weather-related changes are common in Japan, and operators normally publish them on their sites. This guide shares general information; rules change, so confirm details with the official agency or provider before you act.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a resort train in Japan?

It is a sightseeing train designed to make the ride part of the attraction, often with panoramic windows, special seating, regional food or a themed interior. Examples named by operators include Resort Shirakami in northern Honshu and Yufuin no Mori in Kyushu.

Do sightseeing trains in Japan need a reservation?

Many do. The national tourism organization notes that some popular sightseeing trains require reservations, and a published description of Resort Shirakami states that all seats need advance reservation. Some also need an extra ticket beyond a regular fare, so check the operator's current rules.

Can I use a rail pass on sightseeing trains?

It depends on the service. The national tourism organization says some trains are not covered by the rail pass and some need an additional ticket, and that some popular sightseeing trains require reservations. Confirm with the pass provider or operator before you travel.

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