Ise-Shima, a Harmonious Symphony of Mountains and Sea on the Kintetsu Shimakaze

The race to reach new heights in skylines seems to be an endless competition among major cities. Arriving at Osaka Abeno Harukas Station, a towering silver-gray structure with a futuristic vibe immediately captures everyone’s attention. Its sleek, clean lines and blocky exterior bring to mind childhood LEGO blocks stacked one on top of another toward the sky, or even a Transformer that might turn into a robot to save the world come nightfall. This modern building, “Abeno HARUKAS,” composed of transparent glass curtains and steel, is owned by Kintetsu Railway Co., Ltd. It was already a hot topic during construction, and after its official opening next spring, it will become Japan’s tallest building, standing 300 meters high across 60 floors. In addition to featuring international brand hotels, department stores, and office spaces on its upper levels, it also houses an urban art museum, integrating culture and arts into everyday life. This new type of mixed-use commercial building could almost be described as a small three-dimensional city.

 

Additionally, the most anticipated feature is the 360-degree observation deck on floors 58 to 60. Whether you’re on the open-air plaza or along the high-altitude corridor along the glass wall, you can gaze over the entire Osaka Plain, with the lush Tennoji Park and Zoo lying below. Amidst the dazzling rhythm of the bustling city and the glow of the setting sun, a sense of happiness fills the air. HARUKASU means to make clear or bright in ancient Japanese. Squinting against the light, I look up at this seemingly endless, majestic building, eager to experience this unparalleled, top-tier view of Japan. I silently make a wish to return and pay tribute again next year.

The next morning, the thought of finally seeing the Kintetsu Shimakaze (Premium Express SHIMAKAZE) in person fills me with the same excitement as a child about to open a Christmas gift. This newly launched luxury tourist train, so sought-after even by locals, has been sold out since its inauguration in March. There are only two of these trains in all of Japan, each making one daily round-trip from Osaka and Nagoya to Kashikojima. The timing also coincides with the once-in-twenty-years Ise Grand Shrine Shikinen Sengu ceremony, sparking a wave of interest in riding the Shimakaze to witness the moving of the deities.

We boarded the train at Namba Station in Osaka. When the announcement for the train’s arrival came over the speakers, everyone immediately took out their phones and cameras, snapping photos of the brand-new train like they’d spotted a rare animal. Some train enthusiasts even recorded the entire first car to preserve this once-in-a-lifetime moment. This exquisitely crafted luxury train truly lived up to the hype—a stunning combination of elegant white and sky blue, gleaming brilliantly. The front and rear feature diamond-shaped blue-green observation glass fronts, offering a full view of the driver’s cab, allowing passengers to watch the conductor drive up close, fulfilling every train lover’s dream. The large observation windows create a seamless, open feeling with no blind spots. Coupled with the gentle rocking motion, the clattering sound of the train, and the whistle before entering tunnels, it felt like stepping into a 3D virtual reality—truly surreal. The goose-yellow leather seats in the observation car are first-class level, reportedly costing as much as a car each. The seats are spaced 125 cm apart, offering ample comfort, and come equipped with Japan’s first electrically adjustable inflatable headrests, plus electric massage functions to ease travel fatigue. This is as luxurious as train travel gets.

Beyond the breathtaking observation cars, the Shimakaze also features cafes on both the upper and lower levels. Sleek, long tables by the windows paired with earth-toned soft seating make it feel like a cozy café. Many young women enjoy coffee and desserts here while admiring the beautiful scenery rolling past the windows. The six-seat salon seating also offers oversized windows, with facing sofas making conversation easier. The four-seat Japanese-style and Western-style private rooms are perfect for family trips, offering privacy as well as the freedom to kick off your shoes and relax.

 

Upon arriving at the terminal Kashikojima, the famous pearling region of Ago Bay stretches out before you. From a higher vantage point, you can clearly see the green islands and winding coastline stretching to the horizon. This ria coast, made up of more than sixty islands, is ideal for pearl farming due to its calm waters. Scattered across the bay are numerous long wooden rafts used for pearl cultivation. Under the light refraction, they look like strands of silver silk floating on the azure sea, creating a uniquely local scene.