Category: Express Train Travel

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[Celebrating 10 Years!] Mascots Go Wild at the Kyoto Railway Museum — Commemorative Tickets & a Thunderbird Ride Home

Hello everyone! Welcome to the Mascots Travel Blog. This time, we headed to the Kyoto Railway Museum to celebrate its special 10th anniversary — and of course, our mascots came along for the ride!

🎉 The Mascots Are Thrilled by the 10th Anniversary Decorations!

The moment we arrived at the Kyoto Railway Museum, our mascots’ eyes lit up with excitement. The entrance was beautifully decorated with special 10th anniversary ornaments, and celebratory displays could be found throughout the museum. At the photo spots, our mascots were tripping over each other trying to strike their best poses!

In front of the steam locomotives and Shinkansen on display, it was a flurry of “Take a photo with me!” and “Over here too!” The special anniversary atmosphere made us all smile naturally. It was impossible not to get caught up in the excitement of this milestone occasion.

💡 Visitor Tip: The special 10th anniversary displays and photo spots tend to get crowded. We recommend arriving right when the museum opens in the morning for a more relaxed experience.

🎫 We Got Them! The 10th Anniversary Commemorative Tickets

One of the highlights of this trip was getting our hands on the 10th anniversary commemorative tickets. The moment our mascots held the beautifully designed limited-edition tickets, they jumped for joy with a big “Yes!!” The specially illustrated commemorative tickets are truly a must-have for any collector.

Inside the museum, we immersed ourselves in the full history of Japanese railways, from nostalgic vintage cars to the latest Shinkansen. At the diorama corner, our mascots pressed their faces close to the display and marveled, “This train is moving! It looks so real!” — completely losing track of time as they watched the miniature trains weave through the intricately crafted townscape.

💡 About the Commemorative Tickets: These are available in limited quantities and may sell out shortly after opening. If you want to make sure you get one, head straight there as soon as the museum opens!

🚄 A Satisfied Journey Home on the Thunderbird

After a full day of fun, it was time for the journey home — and what a journey it was! We treated ourselves to a ride on the limited express Thunderbird. At the sight of its sleek blue aerodynamic body, our mascots erupted in excitement all over again.

Once aboard, they sank into the plush seats with the most satisfied expressions. Gazing out at the passing scenery, we chatted happily about the day’s adventures. “Let’s come back again!” “What train shall we ride next?” — our mascots were already planning the next railway trip before we even got home.

We feel so lucky to have visited the Kyoto Railway Museum at such a special moment — its 10th anniversary. It’s a wonderful destination for railway enthusiasts and families with children alike. We hope you’ll find the chance to visit too!

🏛️ Main Highlights Inside the Museum

Kyoto Railway Museum is a three-story building packed with attractions for visitors of all ages.

■ 1st Floor: Promenade & Main Building
Right at the entrance, the “Promenade” features a lineup of nostalgic trains, including the C62 steam locomotive. Some trains allow you to step inside and even sit in the driver’s seat for a memorable photo opportunity.

■ 2nd Floor: Vehicles & Systems
This floor is filled with interactive exhibits where you can learn about the history and mechanics of railways. There’s plenty to enjoy for both children and adults alike.

■ 3rd Floor: Observation Terrace
From the rooftop terrace, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kyoto city and Umekoji Park — and even watch real trains passing by below.

■ Roundhouse (Fan-shaped Engine Shed)
The roundhouse, which preserves over 20 actual railway vehicles, is truly breathtaking. This is a must-see area for any railway enthusiast.

📝 Things to Know Before You Visit

・Recommended time: Allow 3 to 4 hours to fully enjoy the museum
・Crowded periods: Expect crowds on weekends, holidays, and school vacations
・Photography: Photography is generally permitted throughout the museum
・Lunch: There is a restaurant inside the museum (expect waiting times during busy periods)
・Nearby spots: Umekoji Park and Kyoto Aquarium are both within walking distance

Kyoto Railway Museum — Basic Information

ItemDetails
AddressKankiji-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Opening Hours10:00–17:30 (Last admission at 17:00)
ClosedWednesdays (following day if Wednesday is a public holiday), Year-end & New Year
AdmissionAdults ¥1,500 / High School & University Students ¥1,300 / Elementary & Junior High Students ¥500 / Children (age 3+) ¥200
Access2-minute walk from JR Umekoji-Kyoto-Nishi Station
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From Hachioji to Mount Fuji on the Kaiji & Fujisan Express | Yoshida Udon, Fuji View Express and a Fujisan-Themed Train Adventure

What You’ll Learn in This Article

  • How to get to the Mount Fuji area by train via Kaiji and Fujisan Express
  • The unique interior and headcovers of the Fujisan Express
  • All about Yoshida Udon — Fujiyoshida’s beloved local specialty
  • Information on the Fuji View Express — next on our must-ride list!

Shin-Yokohama → Yokohama Line → Hachioji — Already Feeling the Yamanashi Vibe!

Our journey began at Shin-Yokohama Station, transferring to the Yokohama Line bound for Hachioji Station.

Despite still being within Tokyo, the Kiosk at Hachioji Station was already stocked with Shingen Mochi — the famous sweet from Yamanashi. And this time, a very special find caught our eye: a limited-edition Shingen Mochi in a commemorative drawstring pouch celebrating the 500th anniversary of Shingen’s birth! We made a firm mental note to pick one up on the way home, then boarded Kaiji No. 39.

Limited Express Kaiji is operated by JR East between Shinjuku and Kofu / Matsumoto. It also stops at Hachioji, reaching Otsuki in approximately 30 minutes. On weekday evenings, seats are plentiful and every seat comes with a power outlet — making it perfect for working on the go.

Kaiji on a Weekday Evening — The Perfect Mobile Office

On a weekday evening, the Kaiji was noticeably uncrowded, with power outlets at every seat. Laptop open, work in progress — the 30-minute ride to Otsuki passed in no time.

Tips for Riding the Kaiji

  • Power outlets at every seat — ideal for working on the go
  • Quieter than expected on weekday evenings
  • Only about 30 minutes from Hachioji to Otsuki
  • Both reserved and unreserved seating available

Transfer at Otsuki Station to the Fujisan Express — Welcome to the Fujikyu Railway World!

Just 30 minutes from Hachioji, we arrived at Otsuki Station and transferred to Fujisan Express No. 5.

Stepping onto the Fujikyu Railway platform, we were immediately greeted by a parade of brightly wrapped trains arriving and departing. The colorful lineup of vehicles made it instantly clear — we had arrived in Mount Fuji country.

The Fujisan Express Interior Is Pure Joy! Don’t Miss the Headcovers

The Fujisan Express is covered in Mount Fuji illustrations — inside and out. The moment you step aboard, your excitement levels shoot straight up.

The real highlight? The headcovers on the seats, each featuring a completely different illustration of Mount Fuji. You’ll find yourself checking every single one.

A Selection of Unique Headcover Designs

  • “Whale Fuji” — a whale swimming alongside Mount Fuji
  • “Yellow Fuji” — a vivid, sunshine-yellow Mount Fuji
  • “Fuji Three Brothers” — a playful trio of Fuji peaks (a nod to the famous “Dango Three Brothers”!)

Hunting for your favorite headcover design is one of the great joys of riding this train!

Fujisan Express is operated by Fujikyu Railway between Otsuki and Kawaguchiko. Filled with playful Mount Fuji-themed design throughout, it is enormously popular with tourists and railway fans alike.

Trying Yoshida Udon — Fujiyoshida’s Legendary Local Noodle

No visit to the Mount Fuji area is complete without Yoshida Udon — the proud local specialty of Fujiyoshida City.

We ordered a bowl with miso broth and chikuwa tempura topping. The firm, chewy noodles paired beautifully with the miso-based soup, creating a simple but deeply satisfying flavor. Taking our seats at a restaurant called “Genji,” we looked up to find a stunning view of Mount Fuji framing the backdrop — a view that stopped us in our tracks all over again. Only in Fujiyoshida can you enjoy great food and a great view at the same time.

Yoshida Udon is a regional specialty of Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture. Known for its exceptionally firm and chewy texture and its distinctive blend of miso and soy sauce broth, it offers a completely different experience from typical Japanese udon. A must-try when visiting the Mount Fuji area!

The Return Journey on Fuji Kaiyu — and a Stunning Surprise on the Platform

For the return leg, we took the Fuji Kaiyu — a direct and convenient option back toward Tokyo.

While waiting on the platform, a very special train glided in: the Fuji View Express, designed by renowned automotive designer Mitsuoka Akio. That striking crimson red body was absolutely breathtaking. This is officially next on our must-ride list!

Fuji View Express is a sightseeing limited express operated by Fujikyu Railway. Designed by automotive designer Mitsuoka Akio, its bold crimson exterior is instantly recognizable. All seats are reserved, so advance booking is recommended if you’d like to ride.

Don’t Forget the Souvenir — Special Shingen Mochi at Hachioji!

On the way home at Hachioji Station, we successfully picked up the special 500th anniversary commemorative pouch Shingen Mochi we had spotted in the morning. A limited-edition souvenir that made the perfect memento of the trip.

Shingen Mochi is also available online!

Access Summary | Getting to the Mount Fuji Area by Train

SectionTrainJourney Time
Shin-Yokohama → HachiojiYokohama LineApprox. 40 min
Hachioji → OtsukiLimited Express KaijiApprox. 30 min
Otsuki → KawaguchikoFujisan ExpressApprox. 50 min
ReturnFuji KaiyuDirect & convenient

Summary | The Mount Fuji Area Offers So Much More Than Just the Mountain!

Spot / TrainHighlights
Limited Express KaijiPower outlets at every seat — work while you travel
Fujisan ExpressUnique headcovers & Mount Fuji-themed interior throughout
Yoshida UdonMiso broth, chikuwa tempura & a stunning Fuji backdrop
Fuji View ExpressMitsuoka’s crimson masterpiece — next on the must-ride list!

The Mount Fuji area offers a completely different experience with each train you ride. We highly recommend combining multiple trains for a truly memorable journey!

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Riding the Uzushio Limited Express on the Kotoku Line to Otsuka Museum of Art | Essential Tips for Train Travel in Shikoku

What You’ll Learn in This Article

  • How to ride the Uzushio Limited Express and access the museum
  • Highlights and must-see exhibits at Otsuka Museum of Art
  • Important warnings about the Ikenotani Station transfer
  • Why checking timetables in advance is absolutely essential in Shikoku

First Ride on the Kotoku Line! Why We Chose the Uzushio Limited Express

The Kotoku Line connects Takamatsu and Tokushima — and this was our very first time riding it. The train we chose was the Limited Express “Uzushio.”

At Takamatsu Station, a member of staff helpfully walked us through the return journey options. Given that trains run only once per hour, we were truly grateful for that advice — as we would come to appreciate very deeply later in the day.

Limited Express Uzushio is operated by JR Shikoku between Takamatsu and Tokushima. Running on diesel multiple units (DMUs), this line has limited departures, making advance timetable checks absolutely essential. Miss your train and you could be waiting up to an hour for the next one.

Our Destination: Otsuka Museum of Art | 20 Minutes by Bus from Naruto Station

Our destination was the Otsuka Museum of Art, located approximately 20 minutes by bus from Naruto Station.

“It’s just reproductions, right?” — you might be thinking. But this is truly no ordinary museum. It brings together ceramic-plate reproductions of masterpieces from around the world, offering experiences like no other:

  • View all seven of Van Gogh’s Sunflowers paintings side by side in one visit
  • See The Last Supper — both the pre-restoration and post-restoration versions — displayed together in the same room
  • Experience Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling reproduced at full scale

I actually visited here once during my student days, and seeing the Sistine Chapel ceiling here for the first time made the experience of seeing the real thing in Rome years later all the more moving. As a place to prepare yourself before encountering the originals, this museum is simply unmatched.

Otsuka Museum of Art is one of the largest ceramic art museums in the world, located in Naruto City, Tokushima Prefecture. It features approximately 1,000 Western masterpieces from over 190 museums across 26 countries, all faithfully reproduced at original scale on ceramic panels — including the full Sistine Chapel. Admission: ¥3,300 for adults. Allow a minimum of 3–4 hours for your visit.

Soak Your Tired Feet at Naruto Station’s Free Foot Bath

After a thoroughly satisfying museum visit, we stopped at the free foot bath right in front of Naruto Station to rest our weary legs. The warm water was an absolute blessing after hours of walking.

It’s completely free to use, so make sure to stop by whenever you’re passing through Naruto Station. Your feet will thank you!

Beware of Ikenotani Station! A 20-Minute Wait in the Rain

The painful lesson of the return journey came at Ikenotani (池谷) Station — a transfer point that caught us completely off guard.

Standing in the pouring rain, we waited a full 20 minutes for the next Uzushio Limited Express toward Takamatsu. In Shikoku, where trains are infrequent, missing a connection can mean a very long wait.

Important Warning — Ikenotani Station Transfer: This is the junction between the Kotoku Line and the Naruto Line, but waiting facilities are very limited. On rainy days especially, this transfer requires careful planning. Always check the timetable in detail before you travel.

Why Checking Timetables in Advance Is Non-Negotiable in Shikoku

Despite securing a seat in the unreserved car, we didn’t make it back to Takamatsu Station until after 6:30 PM.

Compared to the mainland, train services in Shikoku are significantly less frequent. Miss a connection and you could be stranded for a very long time. If you have plans later in the day, meticulous timetable planning is absolutely essential.

Key Planning Tips for Shikoku Travel

  • Check transfer waiting times at every station in advance
  • Always confirm the time of the last limited express of the day
  • Build generous buffer time into your itinerary
  • Have a plan for waiting in bad weather

Mascots Take on the Oni Stone Statue at Takamatsu Station!

Back at Takamatsu Station, the Mascots immediately set their sights on the Oni (demon) stone statue in front of the station — made from the prized local Aji Stone. They insisted on climbing up for a photo, scrambled their way up… and then couldn’t get back down. Classic Mascots (laughs).

Meanwhile, at Naruto Station, they posed quietly and obediently at the feet of the local mascot Uzuhime-chan. Apparently even the Mascots are a little intimidated by demons (laughs). The contrast in their expressions makes for one of the best photos of the entire trip.

Aji Stone (庵治石) is a premium granite quarried in Kagawa Prefecture. Known for its exceptionally fine grain and beautiful lustre, it is often called the “Diamond of Granite” and is one of Japan’s most prized natural stones.

Summary | Otsuka Museum of Art Is an Absolute Must on Any Shikoku Itinerary

ItemDetails
AccessTakamatsu → Uzushio Ltd. Express → Naruto Station → Bus approx. 20 min
Key WarningIkenotani Station transfer / trains once per hour
Foot BathIn front of Naruto Station (free)
Admission¥3,300 for adults
Recommended TimeMinimum 3–4 hours
Top TipCheck timetables thoroughly the day before you travel!

Otsuka Museum of Art has far more to offer than a single day can do justice to. For a truly relaxed experience, we recommend staying overnight in Naruto or Tokushima and taking two days to fully explore the collection.

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The Royal Express Comes to the Tokai Region! Mascots Go Wild on the Ultimate Luxury Train Journey

What You’ll Learn in This Article

  • Key features and onboard services of the Royal Express
  • How to book a ride (tour package only)
  • The atmosphere and special touches inside the train
  • A rare and unexpected side of the Mascots

Years of Longing — and the Royal Express Finally Comes to Tokai!

The first time I ever laid eyes on that stunning Royal Blue body, I let out an involuntary sigh of admiration. That was years ago — and yet, here we are, with the Royal Express making a run through the Tokai region!

The moment the news broke, the Mascots’ excitement levels shot through the roof. Of course, there was only one thing to do — we had to ride it.

The Royal Express is a luxury sightseeing train operated by Tokyu Corporation. Renowned for its elegant Royal Blue exterior and exceptional onboard service, it has also made tour runs across Japan including Hokkaido and the Izu Peninsula. Please note: this is a tour-exclusive train and cannot be boarded with a regular ticket.

Receiving Our Passenger Badges — Mascots Are Overjoyed!

Upon boarding, the first thing we were handed was a passenger identification badge. For the Mascots, this was an absolute hit. From the moment the badge was placed in their hands, they were completely beside themselves — no amount of gentle reminders to calm down had any effect whatsoever (laughs).

Who knew a single badge could bring so much joy? It’s this kind of thoughtful, special touch that makes luxury train travel such a memorable experience.

Special Touches That Make the Royal Express Unique

  • Passenger identification badges for all guests
  • A beautifully unified Royal Blue interior throughout
  • Attentive, personalised service from dedicated staff
  • Scenic commentary and announcements matched to the views outside

All Aboard — and the Mascots Go Wild!

The moment we stepped inside, the Mascots erupted into squeals of delight. Enveloped in the Royal Blue interior and surrounded by an atmosphere of pure elegance, it’s honestly hard to blame them — anyone would feel their spirits lift instantly.

Eyes wide with wonder, the Mascots proceeded to explore every corner of the carriage with great enthusiasm.

Inside the Royal Express, every seat meets or exceeds the standard of a Green Car (first class). With full meal and drink service included, the journey itself becomes the main event — this is travel at its very finest.

A Rare Sight — The Mascots’ Wistful, Quiet Moment

Even the ever-energetic Mascots had a moment of stillness. Gazing quietly out the window at the Tokai scenery rolling past, their silhouette carried an unexpected air of wistfulness — a completely different side to their usual lively selves, and a truly rare shot.

It’s a reminder that only truly special journeys can bring out moments like this.

Mascots Will Be Mascots — Ending with a Ball Game!

The wistfulness didn’t last long. By the end of the journey, the Mascots were back to their usual antics — playing with a ball to round things off, making it very clear they still had plenty of energy to spare (laughs).

Even aboard a luxury train, the Mascots have a way of keeping things warm, lighthearted, and utterly themselves — and that’s what this blog is all about.

Want to Ride the Royal Express? Here’s How to Book

The Royal Express is a tour-exclusive train — you cannot board with a regular ticket. To ride, you must book through a travel agency’s tour package.

Key Booking Tips

  • Schedules are announced irregularly — follow official SNS accounts and travel sites closely
  • Popular tours sell out very quickly after announcement
  • Tour content varies — some include meals, some include accommodation
  • Early research and fast booking are the keys to securing your seat

Summary | The Royal Express — A Luxury Train Worth Dreaming About

ItemDetails
Train NameRoyal Express
Exterior ColorRoyal Blue
How to BoardTour package only
HighlightsElegant interior, special touches, passenger badge
Booking TipApply immediately after tour announcement
Mascots’ RatingSo much fun they played ball afterward (laughs)

The stunning Royal Blue exterior, the exceptional service, the unforgettable atmosphere — the Royal Express is a journey worth chasing. Keep a close eye on tour announcements and be ready to book fast!

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4 Trains in One Day! Summer Trip Eve — Shirasagi, Tsurugi, Hakutaka & Hida

Early Morning Departure from Nagoya — Summer Travel Begins!

The day before our main summer adventure, we set off from Nagoya Station in the early morning. Our first train of the day was the Limited Express Shirasagi No. 1.

“Number 1 — so it must be the very first departure of the day, right?” Not quite! As it turned out, the train had already completed a run as a “Home Liner” commuter service before becoming Shirasagi No. 1. A surprising discovery to kick off the journey! Freshly prepared and ready to go, we boarded and headed toward Tsuruga, racing alongside the shores of Lake Biwa.

Limited Express Shirasagi is operated jointly by JR West and JR Central, connecting Nagoya and Maibara with Kanazawa and Toyama. The scenic stretch alongside Lake Biwa is one of the most popular highlights of the route.

👉【Affiliate Link: Rakuten Travel — Kanazawa accommodations search】

Flipping Our Own Seats at Maibara — A Rare Experience!

At Maibara Station, the train reverses direction — which means passengers need to manually flip their own seats to face the new direction of travel. A familiar sight on local rapid trains, but a genuinely rare experience on a limited express these days!

The Mascots were absolutely thrilled by this unexpected hands-on moment.

Why the seat flip? Shirasagi performs a switchback at Maibara Station, reversing its direction of travel. This kind of uniquely railway experience is one of the hidden joys of travelling by train in Japan!

Transfer at Tsuruga — Onward to Kanazawa on Tsurugi No. 8!

At Tsuruga Station, we transferred to Hokuriku Shinkansen Tsurugi No. 8 and arrived at our first destination — Kanazawa!

Tsurugi is a Hokuriku Shinkansen service connecting Fukui/Tsuruga with Toyama. It was introduced as part of the Hokuriku Shinkansen extension that opened in 2024.

Kanazawa — Gold Leaf, Salt Bread & Kanazawa Castle!

Kanazawa turned out to be packed with wonderful experiences.

Gold Leaf (Kinpaku) Experience

Kanazawa is famous throughout Japan for its gold leaf craftsmanship. Under the guidance of a skilled artisan, we tried our hand at the delicate art of gold leaf application. It requires real concentration — but the sense of achievement when you finish is truly something special.

Discovering “Shio Pan” (Salt Bread)

We stumbled upon Kanazawa’s famous shio pan — a deceptively simple bread with a perfectly balanced saltiness that had us reaching for another one before we knew it. We couldn’t resist picking some up as souvenirs!

Kanazawa Castle

We also paid a visit to the historic Kanazawa Castle, soaking up the stunning contrast of stone walls and white architecture under the brilliant summer sky.

👉【Affiliate Link: Rakuten Travel — Kanazawa sightseeing plan search】

Typhoon Alert — Emergency Meeting! Major Route Change Decided

Just as we were settling into Kanazawa, news broke of a typhoon approaching the following day. An emergency meeting was called to completely overhaul our original plans to head to Omiya.

After much deliberation, the verdict was in:

“Let’s eat Hida beef, enjoy fresh seafood in Toyama, and reroute via Takayama → Nagoya!”

Turning a crisis into an opportunity — classic Mascots thinking! (laughs)

Revised Route: Kanazawa → Toyama (via Hakutaka) → Takayama (via Limited Express Hida) → Nagoya

The Trains We Rode on the Revised Route

Hakutaka

We took the Hokuriku Shinkansen Hakutaka from Kanazawa to Toyama, where we feasted on the freshest seafood the Sea of Japan had to offer.

Limited Express Hida

From Toyama and Takayama, the Limited Express Hida carried us back toward Nagoya — after thoroughly enjoying Hida beef along the way.

Limited Express Hida is operated by JR Central, connecting Nagoya with Hida-Takayama and Toyama. The majestic mountain scenery of the Hida region rolling past the windows is simply breathtaking.

👉【Affiliate Link: Rakuten Travel — Takayama / Toyama accommodations search】

Summary | 4 Trains in a Single Day — A Packed and Memorable Summer Eve!

TrainRoute
Shirasagi No. 1Nagoya → Tsuruga
Tsurugi No. 8Tsuruga → Kanazawa
HakutakaKanazawa → Toyama
Limited Express HidaToyama / Takayama → Nagoya

A typhoon threw our plans into chaos — but it gave us Hida beef and Toyama seafood that we would never have experienced otherwise. Sometimes the best travel memories come from the unexpected detours!

For the full story of the typhoon day that followed, check out the next article👇

👉【Affiliate Link: Rakuten Travel — Hokuriku / Kanazawa / Toyama travel plan search】

▶ Continue to the Typhoon Day travel report → 【Internal Link】

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Shimo-Imaichi Station: A Must-Visit for Railway Fans! SL Taiju Futara & Spacia X on the Tobu Nikko Line

“Shimo-Imaichi” — A Mouthful of a Name Hiding a Railway Gem!

“Shimo-Imaichi” — it might be a bit of a tongue-twister for those unfamiliar with Japanese (laughs), but this station is an absolute must-visit for any railway enthusiast.

Shimo-Imaichi Station is home to an SL maintenance depot and a turntable, and if you’re lucky, you might witness the breathtaking moment when a steam locomotive emerges from the depot. No photo or video can truly capture the raw power of it — watching a steam locomotive come to life, wrapped in black smoke and billowing steam, is a moment that takes your breath away.

What is a turntable? A turntable is a rotating platform used to turn a steam locomotive 180 degrees. The turntable at Shimo-Imaichi Station is still fully operational, making it a rare and precious spot where you can watch a steam locomotive turn right before your eyes.

One of the highlights of Shimo-Imaichi Station is the SL turntable rotation show. Watching the locomotive slowly turn around is an impressive sight — but what really caught our mascots off guard wasn’t the turntable itself. It was the sudden blast of the whistle. That deep, rumbling “BOOOON!” stopped everyone in their tracks for a good few seconds. It was a moment that made us realize just how powerful a real steam locomotive truly is — something no photo or video can fully capture. Whether you’re a railway enthusiast or someone experiencing an SL for the very first time, this is one experience you simply can’t miss.

Riding SL Taiju Futara! The Thrill of a Real Steam Locomotive

We boarded the SL Taiju Futara — a beloved steam locomotive train operated by Tobu Railway, connecting Shimo-Imaichi Station with Tobu-Nikko Station and Kinugawa-Onsen Station.

The dramatic moment of the locomotive leaving the depot is unforgettable, but the journey itself is equally spectacular — smoke and steam drifting past the windows as the train rolls through the countryside. It’s a nostalgic, powerful travel experience unlike anything you’ll find on a modern Shinkansen or limited express.

SL Taiju Futara is fully reserved seating, so advance booking is strongly recommended. Seats — especially on weekends and public holidays — can sell out quickly, so don’t wait!

The Tobu Nikko Line Is a Paradise for Limited Express Fans Too!

Shimo-Imaichi Station isn’t just about steam locomotives. As a stop on the Tobu Nikko Line, it’s also served by popular limited express trains including the Spacia and Spacia X.

The sight of the SL Taiju Futara and the Spacia X standing side by side on the platform is a truly special scene — old and new railway romance crossing paths in one extraordinary moment.

Spacia X’s Onboard Café Was Outstanding!

For the return journey, we finally got to ride the long-awaited Spacia X. Onboard, you can pre-order from an exclusive Spacia X café menu and snack selection — available to reserve before boarding.

Enjoying café time while gliding through the scenery was an absolute delight, and our Mascots were thoroughly pleased with themselves (laughs). It was the perfect luxurious way to wrap up the journey.

Spacia X onboard café: Some menu items can be reserved online before boarding. Popular items sell out fast, so we strongly recommend booking your café order early!

Summary | Shimo-Imaichi Station Is an Absolute Must for Railway Lovers!

Spot / TrainHighlights
Shimo-Imaichi StationSL maintenance depot & working turntable
SL Taiju FutaraThe raw power of steam — a nostalgic journey
Spacia XLuxurious interior, onboard café & snacks

The Tobu Nikko Line lets you experience the best of old and new railway culture — all in a single trip. Whether you’re heading to Nikko or Kinugawa Onsen, make sure to stop off at Shimo-Imaichi!

Coming Up Next | Wait — Are We Already Heading Home? Not So Fast!

The Nikko journey isn’t over yet. What’s the next surprise waiting for us? Stay tuned for the next article to find out!

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Riding Liberty Kegon to Nikko! Exploring Toshogu Shrine & the Spectacular Spacia X

Liberty Kegon: A Comfortable Start to the Nikko Journey

Our trip began aboard the Limited Express Liberty Kegon — a relaxing and comfortable ride all the way to Tobu-Nikko Station.

Here’s something many visitors don’t know: Nikko actually has two railway stations — Tobu-Nikko Station and JR Nikko Station. The charming, atmospheric station building in our photos is actually JR Nikko Station. Both stations have their own unique character, and simply admiring the architecture puts you in the perfect travel mood!

Liberty Kegon is a limited express train operated by Tobu Railway. It connects Asakusa in Tokyo to Tobu-Nikko in approximately 1 hour 50 minutes — a smooth and scenic journey.

Spacia X Was Waiting for Us at Tobu-Nikko Station!

Stepping off the train at Tobu-Nikko Station, we were greeted by the stunning Spacia X parked right on the platform! We couldn’t resist lining up beside it for a photo 📷

We even sneaked a peek inside — and the interior was absolutely breathtaking. The urge to board immediately was overwhelming! Since we had the Spacia X reserved for the return journey, we reluctantly tore ourselves away and headed toward Nikko Toshogu Shrine.

Spacia X debuted in 2023 as Tobu Railway’s newest limited express train. With unique seating options including a Cockpit Lounge and Box Seats, it’s an incredibly popular train that books up fast — reserve early!

Drop Off Your Luggage First — Travel Light!

Carrying heavy luggage to Nikko Toshogu Shrine would be a challenge, so we took advantage of a great tip: the hotel we were staying at had a sister facility right in front of JR Nikko Station, where we were able to drop off our luggage before sightseeing.

This turned out to be the best decision of the day! With nothing but a day bag, we hopped on the bus from JR Nikko Station and headed to Toshogu Shrine feeling completely free.

Getting to Nikko Toshogu Shrine: Buses run from both JR Nikko Station and Tobu-Nikko Station. The buses from Tobu-Nikko Station are more frequent and convenient. The ride takes approximately 10 minutes.

Visiting Nikko Toshogu Shrine

Free from the burden of heavy bags, we fully enjoyed our visit to Nikko Toshogu Shrine. The magnificent historic structures surrounded by lush nature are awe-inspiring no matter how many times you visit.

Among the breathtaking carvings and vibrant architecture of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, what got our mascots the most excited was the Nemuri-Neko — the “Sleeping Cat.” This small but iconic carving is one of the most famous National Treasure decorations in the shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu. The moment they spotted it, there was an immediate “There it is!! The real one!!” Their pure excitement was infectious. Even amid such a historically profound setting, this beloved little sleeping cat managed to steal the show entirely.

After the visit, we hopped back on the bus to Tobu-Nikko Station, picked up a bento dinner, and headed to our hotel for the night.

Suggested Itinerary for a Nikko Day Trip

TimeActivity
MorningArrive at Tobu-Nikko Station via Liberty Kegon
MorningDrop off luggage at hotel near JR Nikko Station
Morning–NoonTake bus to Nikko Toshogu Shrine and explore
EveningPick up bento dinner at Tobu-Nikko Station
EveningCheck in to hotel
ReturnRide Spacia X back to Tokyo

Planning to Ride Spacia X? Book Early!

Spacia X is an extremely popular train and seats fill up quickly. The Cockpit Lounge and Box Seats in particular tend to sell out well in advance. If you’re planning a trip to Nikko, we strongly recommend booking your Spacia X seats as early as possible!

Summary | Liberty Kegon + Spacia X = The Perfect Nikko Round Trip

TrainRoute
Liberty KegonAsakusa → Tobu-Nikko
BusNikko Station → Toshogu Shrine
Spacia XTobu-Nikko → Asakusa (return)

Drop off your luggage, visit the shrine, and return in style on the Spacia X — this is the ultimate Nikko day trip formula. Start planning your visit today!