When you think of a train ride, you probably imagine the clanking of rails, miniature toilets or weathered seats in compartments that have a long history behind them. Some may even remember a quote from the famous Czech film Slunce, seno, jahody, where conductor Helenka calls: "We're not stopping, we have a delay." If you use a train in Japan, though, you definitely don't have to be afraid of any kind of delay or discomfort. Local railways will prove it to you pretty much instantly. A stellar example is the Shiki-Shima train, which sets out on its journey from Tokyo to the island of Hokkaido equipped a wealth of comfort matching that of a five-star hotel.
Once the train stops at Tokyo Station, a red carpet unfolds in front of you at the train door, where the staff is waiting to greet you with a bow. You can choose your seat from 17 suites. Since the train is designed for as little as 34 passengers, you won't find yourself in danger of encountering backpack carrying crowds as you walk through the aisles.
Open in gallery (5)
Source: pinterest
The first, most basic suite model includes two sofa beds, a shower and a toilet. The second category, which bears the name Deluxe Suite, features a fireplace and a bathtub. For the most demanding guests, however, the train offers two-storey suites with handmade bathtubs and large windows that provide a perfect view - and if that's not enough, a custom made Swarovski telescope will come to your aid. The guests can also enjoy fresh flowers or glass fireplaces.
Prodej bytové jednotky 2+kk, Praha 2 Vinohrady, Praha 2
Show property
Open in gallery (5)
Source: pinterest
The shared spaces of the train are decorated with white minimalist furniture with forest landscape on the backdrop. The person behind this unconventional design is Kivoyuki "Ken" Okuyama, who also designed Porshe AG, Ferrari Enzo or Maserati Quattroporte. The corridors inside the train are furnished with wood, metal accessories and stones.
"To connect the past with the future, I tried to imitate Japanese culture through new forms of expression. I combined statics with dynamics and tradition with innovation,"
he said for an American newspaper.
Meals are prepared by Japanese chef Katsuhira Nakamura, who can boasts a Michelin star. The dining car offers the passengers a menu inspired by the four seasons of the year. For better digestion, you can listen to piano recitals of local musicians during each course.
Open in gallery (5)
Source: @shikishima
A journey as an experience
Since the main mission of the Shiki-Shima train is not to get from point A to point B in the shortest time possible, its maximum speed is 110 km/h. Firstly and foremostly, travelers should be able to enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the Japanese countryside during the train ride.
Open in gallery (5)
Source: @shikishima
Prices for a single passenger start at $ 4,200, which is 91,000 crowns. However, a four-day trip with above-standard services can cost up to CZK 280,000. The suites are usually booked out long in advance, so don't hesitate too long, if you want to take a ride.
