Tourism Japan's sleeper trains see rapid sell-outs amid rising demand

[thomas]

Japan's overnight trains are back in the news, and travel industry professionals say the appeal now lies less in getting from one place to another and more in the experience itself. JR West's WEST EXPRESS Ginga, which began running in September 2020, is often cited as an example because it has become so popular that securing a reservation is extremely difficult. The service leaves Kyoto at 21.15 and arrives in Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture, at 10.50 the following morning, covering more than thirteen hours of travel through the night. The basic fare of 12,950 yen includes both the one-way ticket and the limited-express reserved-seat charge. Its reclining seats are broader than those in a standard Green Car, with deeper angles so passengers can rest more comfortably. Travellers paying the same fare can also choose a "Nobinobi" space, which lets them stretch out and lie down rather than sit upright.

​

A 17,820-yen "First Seat," designed for single passengers, offers a box-style arrangement that is not a private compartment but can be converted into a bed by folding down the seat surface. The 20,870-yen "Premium Room" provides a fully private compartment with a sofa facing the window, which transforms into a bed, allowing passengers to relax, sleep comfortably, and enjoy the passing scenery in solitude. These sleeper services can now be found across Japan, with multi-day luxury tours that circle regional areas also proving highly popular. Among the major overnight trains currently operating are Sunrise Seto/Izumo, WEST EXPRESS Ginga, Train Suite Shiki-Shima, Twilight Express Mizukaze, and Seven Stars in Kyushu.

Japan's Sleeper Trains Sell Out Fast

Japan’s sleeper trains are enjoying a resurgence as overnight rail travel evolves from simple transportation to a form of tourism. One of the most popular services is JR West’s WEST EXPRESS Ginga, which made its debut in September 2020 and is priced at 12,950 yen, yet has become so sought after...

newsonjapan.com

WEST EXPRESS 銀河：JRおでかけネット

新たな長距離列車「WEST EXPRESS 銀河」

www.jr-odekake.net