Named after the pine trees that line the shore at Amanohashidate, it offers luxury dining in polished wood carriages, and spectacular views of the Japan Sea on one side and green mountains and rice fields on the other side.  (Photo: Kyoto Tango Railway)

Amanohashidate Maizuru Luxury Train

Dine with the ocean and mountains

Named after the pine trees that line the shore at Amanohashidate, it offers luxury dining in polished wood carriages, and spectacular views of the Japan Sea on one side and green mountains and rice fields on the other side.  (Photo: Kyoto Tango Railway)
Bonson Lam   - 2 min read

Since the introduction of train travel, the idea of luxury dining to the clickety clack sound of the train tracks have held allure and glamour for many travelers. While Europe has the Orient Express, Kyoto's north coast now has a Japanese version, the Kyoto Tango Railway's Matsu train.

Named after the pine trees that line the shore at Amanohashidate, it offers luxury dining in polished wood carriages, and spectacular views of the Japan Sea on one side and green mountains on the other.

There are trains covering 3 routes, running every Friday, Saturday, Sunday as well as on public holidays. These morning and afternoon trips are a great way to have a day trip to one of Japan's top three scenic areas, connecting it with the Japan Railway (JR) stations at Nishi-Maizuru and Fukuchiyama.

Tickets cost between 4,000 and 11,000 yen with a small discount for children.

More information

To ride Kyoto Tango Railway's, Kuromatsu, Akamatsu or Aomatsu, visit the official site here (Japanese only). Tickets can be reserved 3 days before departure from the Internet and ticket booths.

Bonson Lam

Bonson Lam @bonson.lam

I knew my future was destined to be with Japan the moment I flew from Sydney to experience the atmospheric laneways of Kyoto last century.  I am humbled to have met many distinguished people during this time, especially the national living treasures of Japan, such as the doll maker to the Imperia...