Top 6 Off-The-Beaten Paths You Can Get To By Train in Japan
Railway travel in Japan is a dream for train enthusiasts. The country’s extensive rail network not only provides fast and budget-friendly connections between major cities but also offers a seamless way to explore its hidden gems. Beyond the bustling urban hubs, Japan’s railway systems grant access to breathtaking remote destinations—letting you soak in stunning landscapes without the stress of driving. Let’s travel to these 6 hidden gems you can easily get to by train in Japan.
Top 6 Hidden Gems You Can Get to by Train in Japan
Tsubojiri Station, Shikoku
Located in the mountains along the Dosan Line, Tsubojiri Station is a remote railway stop with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. As a classic "hikyo eki"—a secluded station in an unexplored area—it’s a must-visit for train lovers and travelers seeking off-the-grid adventures.
How to Experience It
Starting from Okayama Station on the Sanyo Shinkansen, take the Seto-Ohashi Line to Tadotsu Station (about 45 minutes). From there, transfer to the Dosan Line, and in around 50 minutes, you'll arrive at this picturesque stop.
For an unforgettable journey, upgrade your experience aboard the Shikoku Mannaka Sennen, a luxury sightseeing train. With elegant wooden interiors, gourmet meals crafted from local ingredients, regional sake, and impeccable hospitality, this ride transforms your trip into a cultural experience as scenic as the destination itself.
Okuoikojo Station, Shizuoka
Perched on a narrow railway bridge above Lake Sesso, deep in the mountains of Shizuoka Prefecture, Okuoikojo Station is a dreamlike destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This remote stop is a favorite among hikers, offering easy access to stunning seasonal landscapes—from cherry blossoms in spring and lush greenery in summer to fiery autumn foliage and serene, snow-covered scenery in winter.
How to Experience It
Begin your journey at Kanaya Station on the JR Tokaido Line, then take the Oigawa Main Line to Ieyama Station (about 35 minutes). Due to ongoing construction, a replacement bus connects Ieyama Station to Senzu Station (about 45 minutes). From Senzu, board the Ikawa Line for a 50-minute ride to Okuoikojo Station, where breathtaking views await.
For those seeking a remote escape, this station offers a tranquil retreat into Japan’s untouched wilderness.
Kushiro Shitsugen Station, Hokkaido
For a truly immersive nature experience, hop aboard the Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train, a sightseeing train that takes you on a 50-minute journey through the heart of Kushiro Shitsugen National Park in eastern Hokkaido. This scenic route, running from Kushiro Station to Toro Station, winds through vast marshlands, dense forests, and meandering rivers, offering breathtaking panoramic views along the way.
What makes this trip extraordinary is the chance to witness some of Japan’s rarest wildlife right from your seat. Keep your eyes peeled for red-crowned cranes, one of Japan’s most iconic and endangered birds, as well as wild deer and a rich variety of bird species that call this pristine wetland home.
How to Experience It
Board the Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train from Kushiro Station, sit back and enjoy a slow-paced ride through Hokkaido’s untouched wilderness—an experience that combines the beauty of Japan’s natural landscapes with the charm of classic rail travel.
The Gono Line, Aomori & Akita
Running along the Sea of Japan coastline, the Gono Line is a breathtaking rail journey through remote fishing villages, dense forests, and scenic ocean views. Spanning 43 stations, this picturesque route connects Kawabe Station in Aomori to Higashi-Noshiro Station in Akita, stopping at several unmanned stations along the way, making it a perfect escape into Japan’s rural charm.
Scenic Stops & Highlights
- Akita-Shirakami Station: Gateway to the UNESCO-listed Shirakami-Sanchi, a vast primeval beech forest and natural wonder.
- Senjojiki Station: Access to Senjojiki Coast, a stunning rocky shoreline formed by an ancient earthquake, offering spectacular ocean views.
- Furofushi Onsen: Known for its reddish hot springs with open-air baths overlooking the sea, providing an unforgettable spa experience.
- Juniko Station: Entry to the Juniko Twelve Lakes, home to the famous Aoike (Blue Pond), a mesmerizing, crystal-clear blue lake within the Shirakami-Sanchi World Heritage Site.
How to Experience It
Hop on the Resort Shirakami, a special sightseeing train that runs along the Gono Line, featuring large panoramic windows, local snacks, and even live shamisen performances on select routes. Whether you're chasing ocean sunsets or exploring UNESCO-listed forests, the Gono Line delivers a rail journey like no other.
Hakubi Line, Chugoku Mountains
Winding through the Chugoku region, the Hakubi Line offers one of Japan’s most picturesque train journeys, running between Okayama Station (Okayama Prefecture) and Matsue Station (Shimane Prefecture). As the train glides through narrow valleys, dense forests, and riverside landscapes, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of towering mountain peaks, often snow-capped in winter, and charming rural villages.
Scenic Stops & Highlights
- Bitchu-Takahashi Station: From here, visit Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, often called the "Mountain Castle in the Sky". This historic fortress appears to float above a sea of clouds on misty mornings, creating an ethereal sight.
- Ikura Station: A short walk leads to Ikura Cave, a vast limestone cavern featuring soaring ceilings up to 90 meters high and an intricate maze of corridors and chambers.
- Yonago Station: Considered the gateway to Mt. Daisen, this stop provides easy access to hiking trails, hot springs, and the coastal town of Yonago, renowned for its fresh seafood and relaxing onsen retreats.
How to Experience It
Board the Hakubi Line from Okayama Station and enjoy a scenic ride through the Chugoku Mountains toward Matsue Station. For the best experience, plan stops at Bitchu-Takahashi, Ikura, and Yonago Stations to explore mountaintop castles, limestone caves, and coastal hot springs. Trains run frequently, making it easy to enjoy this breathtaking journey at your own pace.
Narai Station, Nagano
Nestled in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, Narai Station is the gateway to Narai-juku, a beautifully preserved Edo-period post town along the historic Nakasendo Trail. Strolling through its narrow streets lined with traditional wooden buildings feels like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.
Scenic Stops & Highlights
- Nakamura Residence: A restored merchant’s house showcasing Edo-era architecture and daily life.
- Shizume Shrine: A historic Shinto shrine tucked within the town, offering a serene retreat.
- Kiso Bridge: A stunning wooden bridge spanning the Narai River, perfect for capturing picturesque views.
How to Experience It
Take the JR Chuo Main Line to Narai Station, which is easily accessible from Nagano and Matsumoto. From the station, it’s just a short walk into the heart of Narai-juku, where you can stroll the historic streets, visit traditional shops, and soak in the timeless atmosphere of this well-preserved Edo-era town.
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