Introduction

Trains in Japan are more than just a means of transportation. Local trains, especially those in rural areas, are packed with special charm, allowing you to experience the history and culture of the region. In recent years, "restaurant trains" have become popular on these local trains, allowing passengers to enjoy delicious meals while cruising through stunning scenery. This time, we'll introduce you to a unique, retro restaurant train trip in the Kanto region, easily accessible from Tokyo. Embark on a special journey where you can savor all five senses as the beautiful Japanese scenery flows past your window and you enjoy exquisite cuisine made with seasonal ingredients.

1. What is a restaurant train?

Restaurant trains are special trains that specialize in dining. Instead of regular seats, the interiors are dining spaces with tables, allowing passengers to enjoy authentic cuisine while traveling.

A new way to enjoy travel

Tourist trains have been around for a while, but restaurant trains make food the main focus of the journey. By serving dishes made with ingredients unique to the region, you can gain a deeper understanding of the region's food culture.

Reservations are required

Most restaurant trains require advance reservations. Since the days they operate and the number of seats available are limited, it's important to check their websites in advance and make your reservation early.

2. Kanto's Unique Restaurant Train

There are several unique restaurant trains in the Kanto region. We will introduce the features of each.

Mount Fuji View Express

The Mt. Fuji View Express, which connects Otsuki Station and Kawaguchiko Station in Yamanashi Prefecture, is a train that, as its name suggests, allows you to enjoy the magnificent view of Mt. Fuji from the train window. In particular, the "Sweets Plan," which runs mainly on weekends and holidays, allows you to savor sweets and drinks made with local seasonal fruits. The view of Mt. Fuji from the large windows is like something out of a painting.

Chichibu Railway "SL Paleo Express"

The Chichibu Railway, which connects Kumagaya Station and Mitakeguchi Station in Saitama Prefecture, operates the "SL Paleo Express," mainly on weekends. On board this steam locomotive, you can enjoy bento boxes and sweets made with local Chichibu ingredients. The sight of the black steam locomotive billowing white smoke as it runs is like a scene from a movie. From the train windows, you can enjoy beautiful views of the Arakawa River valley and the natural beauty of Nagatoro.

Watarase Valley Railway "WAKKO"

The Watarase Keikoku Railway, which spans Gunma and Tochigi prefectures, is known for running along a beautiful valley. At the railway's WAKKO, you can enjoy dishes made with local ingredients that change with the seasons. In autumn, in particular, you can enjoy a warm meal while watching the valley turn red with autumn leaves. The interior of the train has a calming atmosphere that exudes the warmth of wood, allowing you to spend a relaxing time.

Mooka Railway "SL Mooka"

The Moka Railway, which runs through Tochigi and Ibaraki prefectures, also operates steam locomotives. The SL Moka offers a plan on limited operating days where you can enjoy local sweets and specialties. The area along the line where the steam locomotive runs is filled with rural scenery, allowing you to enjoy the nostalgic, original scenery of Japan.

3. The appeal of restaurant trains: an experience that combines cuisine and scenery

Restaurant trains are not just places to eat, but the scenery outside the windows makes the food taste even better.

Add color to your trip with seasonal ingredients

Most restaurant trains work in partnership with farmers and shops along the route to use the most delicious seasonal ingredients available at that time of year. Dishes made with local vegetables, fish, and meat allow you to experience the local climate and culture.

Enjoy the view while dining

On restaurant trains, you can enjoy your meal surrounded by beautiful scenery. The scenery changes with the seasons, from cherry blossoms to fresh greenery and autumn leaves, and is a major attraction of the journey. In particular, the view that unfolds the moment you exit a tunnel and the sparkling water as you travel along a river are particularly moving.

Experience local culture

On board, you may encounter local people selling things on the train, and people along the line may wave at you. These warm interactions are one of the charms of local trains.

4. Recommended travel plans

A day trip on a restaurant train

1. Morning: Depart by train from the city center to the restaurant train departure station.

2. Lunch: Board the restaurant train and enjoy a leisurely lunch course while enjoying the scenery.

3. Afternoon: Arrive at the train's final stop. Take a break at the nearby cafe or visit the tourist spots.

4. Evening: Head home with fond memories of your trip.

summary

Train travel in Japan isn't just about speed, like the Shinkansen. There's also the luxury of taking in the scenery and savoring delicious food. Restaurant trains offer a special experience that allows you to experience Japan's food culture, beautiful nature, and the warm hearts of its people. Why not plan a restaurant train trip on your next trip to Japan? It's sure to be an unforgettable memory.

Please note: This article is based on information at the time of publication and may differ from the latest information. Train operation status, fares, service details, etc. may be subject to change, so please check the latest information yourself before traveling. We cannot be held responsible for any trouble or damage that may occur as a result of using the contents of this article as a reference.