Are there any sleeper trains in Japan?

The country's elite, as well as tourists, traveled in style using these “blue sleeper trains.” Today, however, luxury night trains are becoming a novelty, harkening back to an earlier time, and cheaper trains. Currently, the Sunrise Seto and Izumo are the only regular night trains still in operation.



People Also Ask

Most trains do not operate 24 hours; for example, in Tokyo they do not run in the early morning 01:00-05:00, and the Shinkansen never runs overnight. If you are planning to be out late and are relying on the train to get home, be sure to find out when the last train is leaving.

MORE DETAILS

Sunrise Seto train guide and timetable: Overnight sleeper train runs between Tokyo and Osaka, Takamatsu, fully covered by the JR Pass.

MORE DETAILS

Choose Your Seat Wisely If possible, try to get a window seat, as this will give you a wall to lean against—the curvature from the wall to the window might be the perfect match for your sleepy head. Also, avoid seats near the bathroom, as these can be noisy and busy.

MORE DETAILS

The total travel time is six hours and 45 minutes, with train fares at 31,060 yen for an ordinary seat. International visitors can purchase an unlimited ride pass for the bullet train called the JR PASS at a fixed price.

MORE DETAILS

Sleeper trains are making a welcome comeback and it's easy to see why; they're more environmentally-friendly and sustainable than air travel, as well as being a fun and, often, comfortable way of traveling. However, it may seem daunting if it's your first time on a sleeper train.

MORE DETAILS

Price. Believe it or not, flying can often be cheaper than the shinkansen! If you're heading to a far-off city like Sapporo or Fukuoka, you may be able to snag cheap tickets from one of the Tokyo airports. Even Nagoya and Osaka airports sometimes offer discount tickets to various regional airports.

MORE DETAILS

Prices for a standard, one-way trip begin at about $227 (¥25,000), though the cruise plans run all the way up to $1,814 (¥200,000).

MORE DETAILS

Most trains do not operate 24 hours; for example, in Tokyo they do not run in the early morning 01:00-05:00, and the Shinkansen never runs overnight. If you are planning to be out late and are relying on the train to get home, be sure to find out when the last train is leaving.

MORE DETAILS