This ultra-luxurious “cruise train” follows two different routes through northern and central Honshu.
Train Suite Shiki-Shima dining car – JR East Photo
Operated by JR East, the Train Suite Shiki-Shima is one of Japan’s new “cruise trains.” These trains operate like luxurious cruise ships, but traversing rails instead of seas. Combining exciting design, attentive service and meals prepared by first-class chefs, the small group of lucky travelers on each cruise will be treated to one of the world’s most luxurious train journeys.
JR East offers 1-night/2-day and 3-night/4-day journeys, both of which depart from Tokyo’s Ueno Station. The shorter version explores the mountains of central Honshu, while the longer version heads up into the wilds of Tohoku. Tickets are by application only (see below).
Train Suite Shiki-Shima with cherry blossoms – JR East Photo
Train Suite Shiki-Shima Route Map
This map summarises the different routes taken by the Train Suite Shiki-Shima. You can also find an interactive Google map further down the page.

Visit the Train Suite Shiki-Shima official website for timetables, images of the seats and compartments, information about destinations, and more.
Train Suite Shiki-Shima suite room – JR East Photo
Schedules
- five departures per year
- check schedules and apply via the JR East Shiki-shima site
Train Suite Shiki-Shima Google Map
You can zoom into this Google map of the different Train Suite Shiki-Shima routes, as well as using it to get directions to different points along the route.
Reservations and Tickets
You can apply for reservations from the official JR East Shiki-Shima website.
Sample Fares
- 2-day/1-night trip: from ¥440,000 double occupancy
- 3-night/4-day trip: from ¥940,000 double occupancy
Japan’s Special Trains
Here are the other special luxury, sleeper, cuisine and sightseeing trains:
- Gran Class Shinkansen (JR East)
- Saphir Odoriko (JR East)
- 36+3 (JR Kyushu)
- Aru Ressha (JR Kyushu)
- Fuji Excursion (JR East)
- Kyo Train Garaku (Hankyu Line)
- Resort Shirakami (JR East)
- Shimakaze (Kintetsu Line)
- Shikoku Cuisine Trains (JR Shikoku)
- Sunrise Seto and Sunrise Izumi (JR Central and West)
- Kurobe Gorge Railway (Kurobekeikoku Tetsudo)
- Sagano Romantic Train (Sagano Scenic)
- Train Suite Shiki-Shima (JR East)
- Twilight Express Mizukaze (JR West)
- West Express Ginga (JR West)
- Seven Stars in Kyushu (JR Kyushu)
- Japan Special Trains home page
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help