Japan Launches 'Suitcase Train' to Take You Straight to the Setouchi Triennale

▲Japan's Okayama "Suitcase" sightseeing train. (Photo/From Wikimedia Commons)

By Reporter Tsai Wenjun / Comprehensive Report

Japan’s triennial Setouchi Triennale has kicked off, and JR West has seized the opportunity to unveil its brand-new sightseeing train, the "Suitcase," which whisks passengers from Okayama all the way to Uno Station. From there, travelers can take a ferry directly to Naoshima and Teshima islands to admire the captivating land art that showcases local culture.

Officially named “La Malle de Bois,” which means suitcase in French, the JR West Suitcase sightseeing train features bold black outlines along its doors and windows that outline suitcase shapes, with the words La Malle de Bois written beneath them. The simple black-and-white design is even more eye-catching.

▲Interior of the "Suitcase" sightseeing train. (Photo/Screen capture fromJapan Yahoo)

The interior of the train offers a completely different atmosphere from its exterior. The warm space includes forest-green double seats on one side and wooden high-bar stools on the other, creating a cozy, minimalist forest-themed vibe that allows passengers to enjoy scenic views from different angles as they ride back and forth.

The Suitcase sightseeing train currently runs on the JR Uno Port Line, operating as a direct service between Okayama and Uno. Passengers cannot disembark midway. During the Setouchi Triennale period, one round-trip service is available daily except Wednesdays.

▲A corner of the Suitcase sightseeing train. (Photo/From Wikimedia Commons)

Suitcase Sightseeing Train
Okayama → Uno: Departs 10:10, Arrives 11:10
Uno → Okayama: Departs 15:00, Arrives 16:00
Fare: One-way 1,350 yen