Many train routes within Japan take you through spectacular scenery. Here’s a few of our favourites: 

• From Tokyo to Kyoto, look to the right as you approach Mishima Station; if you’re lucky, Mount Fuji will appear in all its majestic beauty! 

• Breathtaking glimpses of the alpine heartland of Japan are provided in abundance on the train journey between Takayama and Nagoya. 

• Upgrade to the ‘Romancecar’ from Tokyo to Hakone for wonderful views of Hakone National Park through the large picture window. 

Speak to your Trailfinders travel consultant about how these scenic journeys can be added to your trip.

Point-to-point rail tickets are recommended over rail passes, to ensure you have prebooked seat reservations on your first choice train times, especially crucial over busy seasons. These still offer flexibility for changes on the fly if needed, with one change free of charge allowed per journey. For added comfort upgrade to Green Car class, the equivalent of travelling First Class in the UK.

An iconic emblem of modern Japan, a ride on a bullet train is high on most travellers ‘must do’ lists. Reaching speeds of up to 200 miles per hour and linking most of the major hubs across the main islands of Honshu, as well as across to Hokkaido and Kyushu, these services dramatically cut travel time compared to slower trains or road transport.

Japan has a highly efficient and reasonably priced luggage forwarding service (takuhaibin). Whilst luggage racks are available on trains, this convenient service means you can easily send your bags from one place to another, enabling you to travel with just a small overnight bag, avoiding the need to navigate the journey carrying all your luggage with you. You probably won't feel the need to use it everywhere but there are times when it can really come in handy, especially if you are keen to do some sightseeing at a station stop en route to your destination.

Usually luggage is delivered within 24 hours, though in some more remote destinations it may take a little longer. This luggage forwarding is super easy to organise when in Japan with the concierge desk at your hotel. And don’t worry – with Japanese efficiency at its core, the service is incredibly reliable.

Japan takes its train journeys seriously, and that includes the food. A must-try while traveling, ekiben is the popular train station bento boxes found across the country. Each one is a little masterpiece, showcasing local ingredients and regional specialties, from fresh Hokkaido seafood to Kyoto pickles and grilled meats. It’s easy to grab an ebiken of your choice at the station before boarding to enjoy a delicious meal on board. The self-heating ones - where pulling a string magically warms your meal - are an absolute revelation!