By: Olivia
Most people’s impression of railway travel remains budget-friendly and basic, with not much emphasis on service quality or comfort. But the Japanese dedication to detail and refinement can also be felt on trains, elevating rail travel to a whole new level.
Launched this spring by Japan’s JR Railways, the “Shiki-shima,” designed by former Ferrari designer Ken Okuyama, breaks all our conventional notions of trains — both inside and out — and offers an entirely new kind of experience. Its exterior features a streamlined design with champagne as the main color tone, giving off the vibe of a luxury sports car. Geometric windows have also been added to enhance its highly fashionable aesthetic.
The interior design offers first-class luxury. Created in collaboration with top-tier designers, it exudes elegance and comfort. The “Kamome no Ma” (Seagull Room) features 17 rooms, including 2 luxury suites. Both the first and last cars are equipped with large glass panels that offer panoramic views of the scenery outside, allowing passengers to enjoy seasonal weather changes — no wonder the train is named the “Shiki-shima” (Island of the Four Seasons)! You can sip drinks, chat, and take in the view, making the train ride itself part of the attraction.
The lounge and rooms feature a comfortable and minimalist Nordic design, making you feel like you’re staying in a cozy forest cabin. But experiencing the ultimate luxury of the “Shiki-shima” doesn’t come cheap — a 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/