This sublime “cruise train” leaves from Kyoto and explores the coastlines of western Honshu.
Twilight Express Mizukaze en route – image © Rail Man Photo Office
JR West’s Twilight Express Mizukaze is a sublime “cruise train” that leaves from Kyoto and explores the coastlines of western Honshu. The stunning art-deco design of the train calls to mind the elegance of an earlier age. The guest suites are spacious and relaxing, while the dining rooms and lounge have a touch or European elegance.
With 1-night/2-day and 2-night/3-day courses, a voyage on the Twilight Express Mizukaze will be the highlight of any Japan trip. Like the other cruise trains, tickets are by application and you must apply well in advance.
Twilight Express Mizukaze deluxe suite room – image © Rail Man Photo Office
Twilight Express Mizukaze Route Map
This map summarises the different routes taken by the Twilight Express Mizukaze. You can also find an interactive Google map further down the page.
Visit the Twilight Express Mizukaze official website for timetables, images of the seats and compartments, information about destinations, and more.
Twilight Express Mizukaze dining car – image © Rail Man Photo Office
Schedules
There are five different courses throughout the year. See the official Twilight Express Mizukaze website for details.
Twilight Express Mizukaze Google Map
You can zoom into this Google map of the different Twilight Express Mizukaze train routes, as well as using it to get directions to different points along the route.
Reservations
- You can apply for tickets through the official Twilight Express Mizukaze website.
- Only in Japanese through Japanese travel companies and JR.
Fares
- 2-day/1-night trip: from Y325,000 double occupancy
- 3-night/4-day trip: from Y610,000 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
- A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
- 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