Riding Japan’s Scenic Joyful Trains in 2025: Travel That Feels Like a Destination

🚆 What Are “Joyful Trains”?

In Japan, the train isn’t just transportation—it’s the journey itself. “Joyful Trains” (ジョイフルトレイン) are themed, scenic, and often seasonal trains operated by JR companies to highlight culture, local food, and beautiful landscapes. These aren’t your everyday commutes—they’re rolling attractions.

In 2025, they’ve become even more popular as travelers seek out slow travel and unique experiences beyond Tokyo and Kyoto.

🌊 Must-Ride Scenic Trains in 2025

1. Resort Shirakami – Aomori to Akita

Travel along the Gono Line with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the Sea of Japan. Live shamisen performances, local snacks, and stops at quiet seaside towns make this a favorite.

📝 Tip: Perfect during autumn for vibrant foliage or in summer for peaceful beach views.

2. Toreiyu Tsubasa – Yamagata

Want to soak your feet in a train? This Shinkansen-style ride has an actual foot bath car with mineral water from local onsens. Relax with a view of Yamagata’s mountains while sipping sake.

📝 Tip: Book early—footbath seats sell out quickly.

3. FruiTea Fukushima – Fukushima to Koriyama

A dessert café on rails, this sweet train serves seasonal fruit parfaits and pastries while passing orchards and rice fields.

📝 Tip: Ideal during peach or grape seasons—June to September.

A modern and sleek train interior features a stylish bar area with polished counters and red seating, providing a luxurious travel experience with scenic views through large windows.

🌸 New Trends in 2025 Train Tourism

• Local Collaborations: Some trains feature bento boxes made by regional chefs, or onboard guides telling local legends.

• Eco Upgrades: JR East now uses hybrid or fully electric trains on many Joyful lines.

• Multilingual Access: Enhanced English signage and reservation options help foreign tourists plan better.

• Pop Culture Themes: Trains themed after Ghibli, Evangelion, and Pokémon continue to attract families and fans alike.

🚉 Final Thoughts

Whether you're into mountains, coastlines, or gourmet sweets, Japan’s Joyful Trains in 2025 offer experiences that go far beyond the tracks. If you’ve already seen Tokyo’s skyline and Kyoto’s shrines, it’s time to take the slow train to the heart of Japan—where the journey itself is the destination.