LUXURY SLEEPER TRAINS

The romance of train travel has captured the imagination of many travellers. Japan has no shortage of unique, high-end rail journeys for discerning guests to experience, from the Royal Express touring the Pacific coast, to the brand new Aoniyoshi service in Kansai. But what could be more indulgent than enjoying the finest cuisine while taking in the passing landscapes, and then retiring to your well-appointed suite on-board? Sometimes called “cruise trains,” these luxurious rail journeys are not merely to get from one destination to another… they are the destination! 

Those travelling on the Train Suite Shiki-shima explore destinations in Eastern Japan on two and three-day itineraries from this luxurious ultra-modern train. The signature Shiki-shima Suite Room is set over two floors, and features traditional tatami mats and a cypress bathtub. On the southern island of Kyushu, the legendary Seven Stars in Kyushu sleeper train pampers guests with a more traditional opulence, showcasing interiors created by local artisans. The name comes from the fact that the train is seven cars long, and represents both the seven prefectures and seven major attractions of the island. For a touch of nostalgia Twilight Express Mizukaze combines Art Deco details with modern luxury on a train that explores western Honshu with just 34 passengers, reaching some areas that are otherwise inaccessible to the public. The train’s largest sleeping quarters, known simply as The Suite, takes up an entire car, and includes a private dining room, bathroom with a clawfoot tub, and an entrance with a private balcony. 

EXCLUSIVE CULTURAL IMMERSIONS

Japan’s distinctive culture and traditions rank high on the list of what attracts luxury travellers to the country. As a nation isolated from the outside world for thousands of years, the country’s culture was allowed to develop away from the influence of others, making it one of the most unique in the world. From kabuki theatre to the tea ceremony, to matsuri (festivals) that celebrate the seasons and regional history, and sports such as judo and sumo wrestling, any visit to Japan involves experiencing the culture. 

For luxury travellers, there are many immersive cultural experiences that are both elevated and exclusive. For instance, watching geisha perform their intricate dances is usually an invitation-only experience reserved for the privileged. However, during Kyoto’s cherry blossom festival, an insider’s opportunity can be arranged to allow guests to experience a tea ceremony, performance and multi-course dinner attended by some of the most famous maiko and geiko (also known as geisha). Another sought-after experience is the opportunity to learn the art of sake cup carving, taking instruction from a master craftsperson before tasting sake from the cup you have made. And while attending a sumo tournament is certainly a grand occasion, a more intimate experience is watching the rikishi (sumo wrestlers) practice in the morning while your private guide gives you insight into the rituals and etiquette, and then sitting down with the rikishi for a meal. 

UNIQUE CULINARY LESSONS

Tokyo is home to more Michelin stars than any other city in the world, but Japan’s rich culinary traditions reach much further than its restaurants. Any visitor to Japan can (and should!) explore the country’s vibrant street food options like yakitori, regional specialties and variations of well-known dishes like ramen, vegetarian shojin ryori meals at a temple, and tasting tours of sake distilleries.  But those seeking private gastronomic experiences will find no limit to where their budget can take them. 

Sushi is an obvious jumping-off point for those exploring Japanese cuisine, and there’s no one better to learn from than sushi chef, Yoshinori Tezuka, who has served world leaders at a G20 summit. Chef Yoshi (as he’s known), offers private sushi-making workshops at his restaurant Matsunozushi in Tokyo, guiding guests through a hands-on experience before they sit down to a meal prepared by Chef Yoshi himself. Or they can accept a private invitation to a home-cooked meal, joining Chef Machiko as she prepares a traditional washoku meal. Washoku refers to the harmony within food, and each dish is carefully constructed for the senses, celebrating seasons, the land and fresh ingredients, to tell a story. Japanese whisky is highly celebrated by connoisseurs and collectors, and Suntory Yamazaki Distillery is Japan’s oldest malt whisky distillery. Discerning guests can take a private tour, learning about the blending process before sharing in the experience themselves. The tour ends at the tasting bar, with high-quality whiskies and the chance to enjoy a dram from your birth year’s blend. 

PRIVATE RETREATS

The hotels and resorts at the high-end of Japan’s accommodation spectrum offer something for everyone - from cutting-edge modern style in the big cities, to relaxed, traditional charm in the mountains. But for those looking for a property that can be booked out by their own group, Japan’s exclusive retreats offer both privacy and extraordinary surroundings.  

The Expedition Hotel Zenagi is a former farmhouse in the countryside in Nagano that has been converted into three luxury suites. The design of the property keeps traditional features like lacquered floors and tile-lined bathrooms looking out onto private Zen gardens, while including modern hotel amenities, and creating bespoke itineraries that encourage guests to explore forest and water sanctuaries of the Kiso Valley. Also surrounded by forest is Nemu No Hana, a luxurious eco-inn with just 10 detached guest rooms. Each suite has a terrace and private, open-air bath surrounded by trees, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor life. 

Chiiori sits high up in the mountains in Shikoku, a remote and restful lodge that sleeps up to 10 people. The 300-year-old house has been lovingly restored, offering a quiet rural retreat for independent travellers that wish to experience a taste of Japan’s history. At the other end of the spectrum, Setouchi Retreat Aonagi showcases the hallmark minimalist design of architect Tadao Ando. The seven suites overlook the Seto Inland Sea below, and have access to two pools, a hot spring, holistic spa and farm-to-table dining room. 

Japan National Tourism Organization 

55 York Street, Suite 202

Toronto, Ontario M5J 1R7

Phone: 416-366-7140

Email: info_toronto@jnto.go.jp

www.japan.travel/en/ca/