Japan's 8 Classic Scenic Trains: Ride the Rails to See Drifting Ice and Endless Ocean Views

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

In Japan, railways are not just a means of transportation between destinations but also tourist attractions in themselves. Coupled with the natural mountain scenery along the routes, they offer travelers an experience distinct from that of big cities. Rakuten Travel has selected 8 scenic local trains across Japan. When visiting Japan, why not take a train through hidden gems and enjoy unique landscapes?

▲ The five-sense railway line where you can enjoy shamisen performances and storytelling. (Photo provided by Rakuten Travel, the same applies below)

1. Akita Prefecture – The Owan Line
The Owan Line runs close to the Sea of Japan coast, allowing passengers to watch the waves rolling in from their seats, making it a popular choice among railway enthusiasts. On the sightseeing train “Resort Shirakami,” you can even enjoy live performances by shamisen players and storytellers speaking in the Tsugaru dialect.

▲ The Oigawa Railway and Alishan Forest Railway are sister railways.

2. Shizuoka Prefecture – The Oigawa Railway
The Oigawa Railway, which became sister railways with the Alishan Forest Railway in 2015, is most famous for the Thomas the Tank Engine mini-train. Riding the train through the serene landscapes of Oku-Oigawa also allows you to witness the spectacular “Oku-Oigawa Lake Station” built over the lake — a breathtaking sight you won’t forget.

▲ The Senmo Main Line where you can see drifting ice.

3. Hokkaido – The Senmo Main Line
If you want to see drifting ice, the Senmo Main Line in Hokkaido is the top recommendation. This rail line passes through Kushiro, Akan, and Shiretoko, crossing three of Hokkaido’s national parks. In winter, you can even see drift ice on the Sea of Okhotsk while riding the train, offering an unobstructed view of the icy seascape — a unique sight you can only experience here.

▲ The Aizu Railway showcases vivid seasonal scenery.

4. Fukushima Prefecture – The Aizu Railway
The Aizu Railway features striking seasonal landscapes and connects with trains from Tokyo’s Asakusa and Shinjuku areas, making it a favorite holiday option for urbanites. It’s recommended to book the special “Aizu Romantic View Train” in advance to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Fukushima Prefecture.

▲ The Tadami Line is a top dream photography spot for railway fans.

5. Niigata Prefecture – The Tadami Line
For railway enthusiasts, the “Tadami River First Bridge,” a classic and dreamy scenic spot, is located here. No matter the season — spring, summer, autumn, or winter — just taking the Tadami Line means every snapshot looks like a postcard. The picturesque scenery is intoxicating, making this train journey appealing at any time of year.

▲ The Sanriku Railway offers views of the Pacific Ocean.

6. Iwate Prefecture – The Sanriku Railway
Operating within Iwate Prefecture, the South and North Rias Lines offer breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline. When passing through the Sanriku coastal area, the conductor kindly stops the train for a few minutes so passengers can admire the scenery. Unlike other regional trains, some carriages feature vintage Japanese-style seating, and you can reserve tickets in advance to enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere.

▲ The Arashiyama Forest Train is a must-do ride for visitors to Kyoto.

7. Kyoto Arashiyama – The Sagano Romantic Train
Also known as the “Arashiyama Forest Train,” this locomotive pulls charming, retro wooden carriages that wind through valleys that change with the seasons. The fifth carriage is an open-air one where passengers can even remove the windows, making it a must-visit spot for Taiwanese tourists traveling to Kyoto.

▲ The Toyama Liner takes you all the way to the hometown of Doraemon’s creator with endless ocean views.

8. Toyama Prefecture – The Toyama Liner
The Toyama Liner, also known as the “Ninja Hattori Train,” travels all the way to the hometown of manga artist Fujiko F. Fujio in Toyama. Along the way, you can gaze at the layered peaks of Mount Tateyama and enjoy the stunning coastal views along Toyama Bay.