Have you ever ridden a sightseeing train in Japan? From the SL Fuyu-no-Shitsugen Train in Hokkaido to the Pokémon Train departing from Ichinoseki in Iwate, these themed trains are beloved by both Japanese and international travelers. In this article, we’ve selected five scenic autumn foliage trains in Japan, highlighting the spectacular views of fall colors along the way. Let’s hop on board and chase the red leaves with these dreamy sightseeing trains!
Kurobe Gorge Railway
Image sourceWhile the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is famous in spring, the Kurobe Gorge is equally breathtaking during autumn foliage season. Ride the open-air Kurobe Gorge Railway to admire vibrant red leaves and dramatic valley views, then relax with hot springs and gourmet food in the nearby Unazuki Onsen town. It’s the ultimate way to enjoy autumn in Toyama!
Image sourceThe Kurobe Gorge Railway resembles a small mountain train with open-air cars. Seasonal packages include side trips to hot springs, enjoying Toyama’s famous trout sushi, and even making your own hot spring eggs. The bright orange train winding through the mountains framed by autumn leaves is a sight you’ll never forget.
■ Route: Unazuki Station to Keyakidaira Station
■ Best foliage season: Mid-October to November
■ OFFICIAL SITE
THE ROYAL EXPRESS
THE ROYAL EXPRESS is one of Japan’s most luxurious sightseeing trains, offering different travel packages by season. Its current autumn plan, the “Tokaido・Fuji Cruise Train,” is a four-day, three-night journey passing through Yokohama, Shizuoka, Inuyama Castle in Gifu, and Lake Hamana in Shizuoka.
Designed by famed railway designer Eiji Mitooka, the elegant navy-blue train features eight beautifully decorated cars with retro wooden interiors. Car No. 5 is a walnut dining car, Car No. 6 combines wood and stained glass for a music lounge, and Car No. 8 serves as a library with writing desks and parquet flooring. The attention to detail makes this train a moving piece of art.
Image sourceDining onboard includes French brunch curated by local Izu restaurant “Le Mayon,” dishes from Hamamatsu’s famous unagi restaurant “Unasho,” Italian cuisine from “Bottegon,” and Chinese specialties from “Chinese Cuisine Muramatsu.” Truly, a world-class culinary lineup onboard.
■ Related article: The Gorgeous Royal Express – Perfect for Family Travel
■ Route: Yokohama – Shizuoka – Gifu (this autumn plan)
■ Best foliage season: November to December
■ OFFICIAL SITE
Oigawa Railway Steam Locomotive
The Oigawa Railway SL Train runs year-round with four active steam locomotives built in the 1930s–40s. Inside, you’ll find wooden seats, vintage lamps, and old-style fans—a nostalgic ride that every train enthusiast should experience at least once. The sound of its whistle alone is enough to stir the heart.
In autumn, Oigawa Railway offers special tour packages such as two-day, three-night trips featuring local bento, visits to famous foliage spots like Korankei and Oguni Shrine, and relaxing hot spring stays in Yutaka Onsen.
■ Route: Shin-Kanaya Station to Ieyama Station
■ Best foliage season: Late November to early December
■ OFFICIAL SITE
Watarase Valley Railway Torokko Train
Image sourceOperating in Gunma and Tochigi Prefectures, the Watarase Valley Torokko Train once consisted of four cars, but today two locomotives remain: the bronze DE10-1537 and the red DE10-1678. The first two cars are open-air, while the last two are glass-enclosed, offering sweeping views along the Watarase River gorge.
Service days vary by month, so be sure to check the official calendar. Tickets open one month in advance at 11 a.m. and require a reservation slip (¥520 adults / ¥260 children), plus a separate train ticket or day pass. Car No. 3 requires reserved seating on the morning of departure, while Car No. 4 is non-reserved, with seats available on a first-come basis.
■ Route: Omama Station to Ashio Station
■ Best foliage season: Late November to early December
■ OFFICIAL SITE
Minamiaso Railway – Takamori Line
Image sourceThe final route is the Minamiaso Railway Takamori Line in Kumamoto, Kyushu. This open-air sightseeing train offers panoramic views of Mt. Aso’s volcanic landscape and the autumn leaves around the Shirakawa Valley Bridge. For 2025, it runs from March 15 through November 30 on weekends and holidays (daily service during certain periods). It’s a favorite among both Japanese and international travelers.
Image sourceThe line runs between Tateno Station and Takamori Station, with a one-way trip lasting about 55 minutes. All seats are reserved, and reservations can be made online from 30 days prior up until three days before departure.
■ Route: Tateno Station to Takamori Station
■ Best foliage season: Mid to late November
■ OFFICIAL SITE
Ride Japan’s Scenic Trains for Autumn Foliage
These five sightseeing trains are among the best ways to enjoy Japan’s fall colors. If you’re still deciding where to go for autumn leaves, consider one of these routes. Some even allow advance reservations—so why not treat yourself to a luxurious foliage-viewing trip this fall?
