Eight Scenic Japanese Railway Routes – Breathtaking Views You Must See in a Lifetime

By MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Network Editorial Team

Slow travel is gaining momentum. Unlike jam-packed itineraries that rush from one sight to another, travelers seeking relaxation prefer railway journeys that allow them to unwind and recharge in nature. Japan offers many local sightseeing trains that showcase stunning scenery, letting passengers rediscover the joy of travel while speeding along the tracks. The tourism industry has released a list of eight top local sightseeing trains in Japan, including the popular Gono Line, the Ochanomizu Line where you can see drift ice in winter, and the Nanatsuboshi and Kitatsuboshi Lines with their retro Japanese-style carriages. Hop on now for an unforgettable slow journey through breathtaking landscapes.

• Enjoy a live shamisen performance on the Gono Line
Due to its route along the Sea of Japan, the Gono Line offers some of the most spectacular scenery, making it a favorite among railway enthusiasts. On the leisurely “Leisure Shirakami” sightseeing train, you can also enjoy live performances of shamisen music and storytelling in the Tsugaru dialect.

•Admire Oku-Oigawa Lake Station aboard the Oigawa Train
The Oigawa Railway runs through the serene landscapes of Oku-Oigawa, and passengers can even catch a glimpse of the picturesque “Oku-Oigawa Lake Station” built over the lake—truly a charming travel experience.

•To see drift ice, hop on the Ochanomizu Line train
The Ochanomizu Line, which runs through Kushiro, Akan, and Shiretoko, is a slow local train that crosses three national parks in Hokkaido. The foreign-inspired scenery along the way is breathtaking, and in winter, you can even witness the drift ice of the Sea of Okhotsk—offering unobstructed views of this icy wonderland.

•Take the Aizu Railway train for a soak in Aizu’s hot springs
The Aizu Railway offers beautiful natural scenery and hot spring vibes unique to Aizu. With connections to Tokyo’s Asakusa and Shinjuku stations, it’s a popular weekend getaway for city dwellers. It’s recommended to book the special “Aizu Romance Car Panorama View Train” in advance to enjoy the stunning views of Fukushima Prefecture.