Ultra-luxury mobile hotel: Japan’s JR Railways’ stylish Shiki-shima train

By: Olivia

Most people’s impression of railway travel remains limited to something cheap and simple, with not many expectations for service quality or comfort. HoweverJapan’s dedication to detail and meticulousness can also be felt on the train, elevating railway travel to a whole new level.

Japan The “Shiki-shima” introduced this spring by Japan Railways (JR), designed by former Ferrari designer Ken Okuyama, breaks through our conventional image of trains both inside and out, offering a completely new experience. Its exterior features a streamlined shape and champagne as the main color tone, giving off the vibe of a luxury sports car. It also incorporates geometric windows that showcase a strong sense of fashion.

The interior design offers a first-class experience, with the entire train meticulously planned by renowned designers. The “Kumoha 17” cars include 17 rooms, among which there are 2 luxury suites. The first and last cars feature large glass panels, allowing passengers to enjoy panoramic views of the scenery outside and experience the changing weather across the four seasons—no wonder the train is named the “Shiki-shima” (Four Seasons Island)! You can sip drinks and chat while admiring the view, making the journey itself part of the attraction.

The lounge and room designs feature a comfortable and minimalist Nordic style, making you feel like you’re staying in a cozy forest cabin. However, experiencing the top-tier luxury of the “Shiki-shima” is definitely not cheap—the two-day, one-night journey starts from 320,000 JPY, which might be a bit steep for some travelers.

Shiki-shima
http://www.jreast.co.jp/shiki-shima/en/