Saphir Odoriko: Tokyo, Izukyu-Shimoda, and Shinjuku

Japan has no shortage of luxury trains, yet the Saphir Odoriko sets itself apart with its sleek, modern design and stunning coastal views. Launched in 2020, it was designed by Kiyoyuki Ken Okuyama, the mind behind the Enzo Ferrari and the Train Suite Shiki-shima. Unlike other luxury trains designed with a sense of nostalgia, the Saphir Odoriko highlights light, space, and contemporary style, making your journey to Izu feel like a show with the scenery as the star.

Hop aboard and let’s explore what makes the Saphir Odoriko so special.

Saphir Odoriko Carriages

As you step aboard the Saphir Odoriko, each carriage feels like a different chapter designed with its own mood and rhythm. There’s the exclusivity of the Premium Green Car, private compartments for more secluded experience, a lively cafeteria with an open kitchen, and spacious Green Cars where even standard seats feel special. Let me walk you through each one so you can choose the perfect spot, whether you prefer privacy, a social atmosphere, or the best sea views.

Premium Green (Car No. 1)

The most exclusive seat on the Saphir Odoriko. With only 20 seats arranged in a spacious 1+1 layout, you’ll enjoy a private leather seat with thick padding, full recline and footrest controls, and the option to swivel toward the wide coastal windows. One of the highlights is the panoramic lounge window at the front, where you can see straight into the driver’s cabin and the tracks leading toward the Izu Peninsula. Each seat also comes with a reading light, USB port, cup holder, and retractable table, giving you everything you need within arm’s reach.

Green Car Private Compartment (Car No. 2, 3)

If you’re travelling with family or friends, the Green Car private compartments are the perfect choice. Choose from two of their compartment sizes: for 1 to 4 people and for 1 to 6 people. The design feels like a stylish coastal cabin, with wide windows, wooden tables, and leather seats, giving you the best views of the Izu coastline. A cabin attendant is there to look after you and your group, delivering light meals and drinks from the café car straight to your compartment. 

Cafeteria (Car No. 4)

Midway through the train, you’ll find the cafeteria, a café-style space with an open kitchen where you can watch your meal being prepared. You can choose to sit at the counter, where the large side windows give you stunning coastal views, or settle into a leather banquette for a more laid-back meal. The menu is curated by top chefs along the route and changes with the seasons.

Green Cars (Car No. 5, 6, 7, 8)

If you’re travelling in the standard Green Cars, you’ll enjoy a premium level of comfort that still feels a step above ordinary train seating. The seats are arranged in a roomy 2+1 layout, so you’ll have plenty of personal space. They line up perfectly with the large windows, giving you uninterrupted views of the Izu coastline. The seats can also be rotated to face each other (perfect if you’re travelling as a group), and comes with thoughtful touches like electric recline, an adjustable footrest, a power outlet, USB port, reading light, and many more.

Here’s an insider tip: sit on the left side when heading from Tokyo for the best ocean views.

Saphir Odoriko Stops

Tokyo

Your journey on the Saphir Odoriko begins at Tokyo Station (or ends here, depending which route you’ll take). From here, you’ll slip into the calm, coastal scenery of the Izu Peninsula.

Tokyo Station is right in the heart of the city, making it easy to reach from anywhere in Tokyo or the suburbs. The surrounding Marunouchi district is worth exploring too, with its mix of shops, cafés, and restaurants. While Tokyo Station is the main departure point, some trains also stop at Shinagawa, and on weekends you may even catch services from Shinjuku or Shibuya. Most departures leave in the morning, bringing you into Izu by midday, which makes it a perfect timing for a day trip or a weekend escape.

Of course, Tokyo is more than just the starting point of your journey. Before or after your ride, you might want to shop in Ginza or Shibuya, visit the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, or catch city views from Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower.

Izukyu-Shimoda

A charming port town on the southern tip of the Izu Peninsula. As you step off the train, you’ll feel the contrast from Tokyo immediately, here it’s all about coastlines, sea breezes, and a slower pace of life.

Shimoda is famous for its beaches, with Shirahama Beach topping the list for its white sand and lively surf scene. If you’re up for a slow pace, head to Kisami Ohama, or enjoy the clear waters at Tatadohama. The place is also known for its hot springs, and many hotels and ryokan that offer onsen baths overlooking the ocean.

Don’t miss Shimoda’s place in the Izu Peninsula Geopark, a UNESCO site of cliffs, sandy shores, and volcanic history. If you’re here in June, Shimoda Park’s Hydrangea Festival fills the hillside with millions of hydrangea blooms, along with panoramic views of the harbour below.

Being a coastal town, Shimoda is also known for its seafood, especially “kinmedai” (or golden eye snapper), which you’ll find in many local restaurants. Izukyu-Shimoda is the reward at the end of your journey.

Shinjuku

On weekends and public holidays, the Saphir Odoriko offers a special service that departs directly from Shinjuku Station, perfect if you’re based in western Tokyo and don’t want to transfer at Tokyo Station. It’s the best way to visit the Izu Peninsula, especially for a quick weekend getaway.

Shinjuku itself is worth exploring before or after your trip. As one of the busiest stations in the world, it’s surrounded by endless things to see and do. Here, you can head up to the free observation decks at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for panoramic city views, wander the peaceful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, or visit the Kabukicho at night. Shinjuku is also a shopping haven, with everything from high-end department stores like Isetan and Takashimaya to fashion malls and electronics shops.

Where to Stay in Tokyo

• Mandarin Oriental Tokyo (5-star): Located in the high-end Nihonbashi district, the Mandarin Oriental Tokyo combines modern luxury with Japanese tradition, all built around the theme of a “living tree.” The rooms here are spacious and serene, with bamboo flooring, bespoke furnishings, and rich Japanese textiles. Treat yourself to an award-winning spa on the 37th floor, where treatments combine Asian and Western techniques against a backdrop of sweeping city views.

• Shangri-La Tokyo (5-star): Conveniently located right next to Tokyo Station. The Shangri-La Tokyo offers spacious rooms with stunning views from the Imperial Palace Garden. From here, you’ll be within easy reach of Ginza’s shopping and dining, as well as the Imperial Palace itself.

• Hilton Tokyo Bay (4-star): Located on Tokyo Bay, just a stone’s throw away from Tokyo Disney Resort. The Hilton Tokyo Bay is ideal if you’re pairing your Saphir Odoriko journey with a visit to the parks. A free shuttle takes you to Maihama Station, where a direct train connects easily to Tokyo Station. As a family-friendly hotel, it offers a wide choice of rooms, including fun, themed options that kids especially love.

• Mitsui Garden Hotel Nihonbashi Premier (4-star): Just a short walk or quick taxi ride from Tokyo Station, the hotel features modern design with Japanese touches. On the 9th floor, you’ll find a calming communal onsen, perfect for unwinding before or after your journey. The location also puts you close to local restaurants and historic landmarks in Nihonbashi.

Where to Stay in Izukyu-Shimoda

• Shimoda Tokyu Hotel, Shimoda (4-star): Situated on a hill with stunning ocean views, Shimoda Tokyu Hotel is the perfect place to unwind after your Saphir Odoriko journey. You can soak in the onsen baths and take in the coastal scenery, all from a serene and scenic setting. The rooms feature either ocean or mountain views.

• Hotel Izukyu (3-star): Just steps from Shirahama Beach, Shimoda View Hotel is a classic resort where you can move straight from your scenic train journey to a coastal retreat. Most rooms look out over the Pacific Ocean, and you’ll have your choice of indoor or open-air hot spring baths.

• Ocean View Hiromi SPA Hotel: Located at the southern tip of the Izu Peninsula, Ocean View Hiromi Spa Hotel offers front-row views of the sea along with soothing hot spring baths. It’s a favourite spot to catch both sunrise and sunset, and a great place for nature walks around nearby Ebisu Island. The rooms here range from traditional Japanese-style with tatami and futon bedding to modern Japanese-Western suites.

Where to Stay in Shinjuku

• Hyatt Regency Tokyo (5-star): Located in the west of Shinjuku, Hyatt Regency Tokyo offers a calm, upscale stay just a short walk from the station. Spacious, modern rooms and attentive service make it a comfortable place before beginning your journey to the Izu Peninsula.

• Keio Plaza Hotel (4-star): Only a 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station’s west exit. The rooms are spacious, and offer a wide choice of dining options. For an extra indulgent stay, upgrade to Premier Grand, where you’ll stay in renovated rooms and suites with Club Lounge access and luxury amenities like L’Occitane products.

• Sotetsu Grand Fresa Takadanobaba (3-star): Just a few stops from Shinjuku Station, the hotel offers a good balance of comfort and value. The rooms are modern and functional, and the location makes it easy to catch the weekend Saphir Odoriko departures from Shinjuku.

Where to Eat in Tokyo

• RyuGin: For a memorable dinner before your journey, RyuGin offers a three-Michelin-star experience. Here, modern Japanese cuisine is made even more special with innovative techniques and seasonal ingredients. It’s the perfect prelude to your Saphir Odoriko trip.
• Kagurazaka Ishikawa: This three-Michelin-star kaiseki restaurant offers an intimate dining experience focused on traditional Japanese multi-course cuisine. Easily accessible from central Tokyo, it’s one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Japanese culture before heading to the coast on the Saphir Odoriko.
• Shimbashi Hoshino: Close to Tokyo Station, Shimbashi Hoshino is a convenient spot for a high-quality, intimate meal before your journey. The warm, welcoming atmosphere here sets the tone before your trip.
• Nihonbashi Kakigaracho Sugita: One of Tokyo's most exclusive sushi restaurants, Sugita offers a peak culinary experience. Just a short distance from Tokyo Station,  it is the perfect way to begin a luxury trip, experiencing Japan's food scene before boarding the Saphir Odoriko for the coast.
• Higashiazabu Amamoto: Another top-tier sushi restaurant, Higashiazabu Amamoto offers an unforgettable, world-class dining experience. Though a little farther from Tokyo Station, the exceptional quality makes it worth the trip

Where to Eat in Izukyu-Shimoda

• Onjaku: A highly acclaimed kaiseki restaurant that specialises in fresh local seafood. The restaurant is known for cha-kaiseki, a traditional Japanese multicourse meal served before a tea ceremony. It highlights the natural flavours of seasonal ingredients, especially seafood from the nearby Suruga Bay. It’s a perfect culinary welcome to the Izu Peninsula after disembarking the Saphir Odoriko.
• Naruse Shizuoka: Known as one of Japan’s finest tempura restaurants, led by Chef Takeo Shimura, whose skill draws diners from across the country. Here, you’ll get a taste of seasonal produce and seafood prepared with precision, offering an authentic taste of the region and a true flavour of the Izu area.
• Shun Shizuoka: For a truly local experience, Shun in Shizuoka specialises in charcoal-grilled eel (sumiyaki unagi) kaiseki. Chef Kenichi Okada’s high-heat grilling method skips steaming, giving the eel tender meat with perfectly crisp skin. Shun’s signature dish is eel prepared two ways: shirayaki (without sauce) and kabayaki (glazed with sweet soy). It’s an exclusive dining experience that captures the flavours of the region.
• FermenCo.: A popular Italian restaurant set right on Iritahama Beach, known for its sourdough Neapolitan-style pizza, natural wines, and ocean views. In addition to pizza, FermenCo. offers a curated selection of natural wines and sourdough bread, embracing the philosophy of fermentation.
• Chisou Nishi Kenichi: A highly regarded French restaurant in the fishing port town of Shizuoka, Chisou Nishi Kenichi is a sought-after French restaurant known for modern cuisine built around the freshest seafood. Reservations are hard to secure here, but with our help, we can secure you a seat at one of the eight-seat counters and watch Chef Nishi and his team work in the open kitchen as he shares his passion and explains each ingredient and preparation.

Where to Eat in Shinjuku

• Menya Kaijin Shinjuku Ten: For a classic, comforting meal before your trip, this popular ramen spot near Shinjuku Station is a great choice. Menya Kaijin is a popular ramen shop, specialising in seafood-based broth, its signature shio ramen is made by simmering charcoal-seared fish heads and bones sourced fresh each day. The result is a clean, umami-rich bowl that’s both light and deeply satisfying.
• Tokyo Niku Shabuya: For something hearty before your journey, Tokyo Niku Shabuya offers a special take on shabu-shabu and beef kaiseki. The restaurant’s signature dish is the Tajimaguro, a rare type of Kobe beef prized for its rich flavour and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Beyond hot pot, you’ll enjoy a full multi-course meal featuring sukiyaki, appetisers, and other beef specialities.
• Ramenya Shima: For a taste of nostalgic Tokyo, Ramenya Shima celebrated by ramen enthusiasts, offers Its signature shoyu ramen, crafted from chicken, pork bones, and artisanal soy sauces, creating a rich, complex broth that’s full of umami without being too salty. It’s the perfect quick, traditional meal before boarding Saphir Odoriko.
• Tori Shige: A legendary grilling establishment dating back to 1949, Tori Shige began as a post-war food stall and is now celebrated for its expertly grilled skewers. While the name suggests chicken (yakitori), the real signature dish here is the pork and beef, including unique cuts and offal prepared with exceptional skill. Some dishes are even served medium-rare, a testament to the quality and safety of the cooking. It's an excellent choice for a casual yet delicious meal before your departure.
• Epitaph Curry: Near Shinjuku Station, Epitaph Curry offers a unique curry experience, drawing inspiration from Southern Indian dishes adapted to suit the Japanese palate. Their signature dish is the Pork Vindaloo Mark, loved for its rich taste and the refreshing, sour tang of vinegar. It’s a tasty and delicious stop before boarding the Saphir Odoriko.

Other Things to Do in Tokyo

• Imperial Palace East Garden: Just a short walk from Tokyo Station’s Marunouchi exit, the Imperial Palace East Garden offers a peaceful stroll in the heart of the city. Walk past the old Edo Castle foundations, stone walls, and moats for a glimpse of historic Japan, all without traveling far and leaving central Tokyo.

• KITTE Marunouchi Garden: Located on the 6th floor of the JP Tower, this rooftop observation deck offers fantastic views of Tokyo Station's beautifully preserved red-brick facade and the surrounding city. It's free to enter and a great spot for photos.

• National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo (MOMAT): A short walk from Tokyo Station, MOMAT is Japan’s first national art museum, showcasing an extensive collection of modern and contemporary Japanese art. Don’t miss the top-floor lounge, “A Room with a View,” where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Imperial Palace and the city.

• Tsukiji Outer Market: If you have time for a culinary adventure, take a short train or taxi ride to the Tsukiji Outer Market. While the inner wholesale market has moved, the outer market is still a lively "food town" filled with shops and restaurants where you can sample fresh seafood, local produce, and delicious street food.

• Ginza: Only one Metro stop from Tokyo Station, Ginza is Tokyo’s iconic luxury shopping and dining district. Even if you’re not here to shop, it’s worth a stroll to admire the sleek architecture, department stores, and art galleries. On weekend afternoons, the main street, Chuo Dori, becomes a pedestrian zone, perfect for walking.

Other Things to Do in Izukyu-Shimoda

• Perry Road: Just a 15-minute walk from the station, Perry Road is a charming stone-paved street lined with willow trees, cafés, and traditional buildings. Look out for the distinctive namako kabe (sea cucumber walls), a diamond-patterned fireproof design that adds to the street’s character.

• Ryosenji Temple and the Museum of the Black Ship: At the end of Perry Road, Ryosenji Temple is where the Treaty of Amity between Japan and the US was signed. Next door, the museum displays artifacts and artworks from Commodore Perry’s arrival. If you visit in May, the temple grounds are especially beautiful with blooming American jasmine.

• Mount Nesugatayama Ropeway: Just a short walk from the station, the ropeway carries you to the summit of Mt. Nesugatayama. From the top, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Shimoda Bay, the city, and the Pacific Ocean. While there, you can also explore a herb garden and visit Aizendo Temple.

• Shimoda Park (Shiroyama Park): If you walk a bit past Perry Road, you'll reach this scenic park on a hill overlooking the bay. It's particularly famous for its hydrangeas, which are in full bloom in June. The park also features historic monuments commemorating Japan's diplomatic relations with the US.

• Shirahama Ohama Beach: Known for its crystal-clear water and white sands, Shirahama Ohama Beach is just a short bus ride from Izukyu-Shimoda Station, and is one of Japan’s best spots for swimming and surfing. It's also home to the Shirahama Shrine, with its picturesque vermilion torii gate sitting on a rocky outcrop.

• Shimoda Floating Aquarium: A short bus or taxi ride from the station, Shimoda Floating Aquarium offers a unique marine experience with dolphin shows, sea life exhibits, and even the chance to snorkel with dolphins. It’s a fun, family-friendly stop by the water.

Other Things to Do in Shinjuku

• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: A peaceful escape in the city, combining Japanese, French, and English garden styles. It is especially popular for its cherry blossoms in spring and vivid foliage in autumn.

• Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: Head up to the 45th-floor observatories in either tower for free panoramic views of the city. On clear days, you can spot Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, and even Mount Fuji. At night, the building comes alive with a free projection mapping show.

• Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane): This narrow alleyway near Shinjuku Station is packed with tiny yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and ramen restaurants. It has a nostalgic, post-war atmosphere and is a great spot to grab a bite and a drink with locals.

• Shinjuku Golden Gai: Hidden within Kabukicho are six narrow alleyways with over 200 tiny, quirky bars. This area offers a retro "Showa era" atmosphere and a unique nightlife experience. Many bars only seat a handful of customers, so you can enjoy an intimate conversation with the bartender and other patrons.

• Hanazono-jinja Shrine: Located in the heart of Shinjuku, Hanazono-jinja is a peaceful Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of trade and success. Various festivals are held here throughout the year.

• Ninja Trick House In Tokyo: For a fun, family-friendly experience, Ninja Trick House introduces you to the history of ninjas and lets you try out their stealthy tricks and weapons. It’s an interactive way to add a playful cultural stop to your time in Shinjuku.

A Journey That Lingers

The Saphir Odoriko is more than a way to travel to Tokyo or Shinjuku to Izukyu-Shimoda, it redefines the experience of what it means to travel in comfort and style along Japan’s most scenic coastline. With its thoughtfully designed interiors, panoramic windows, and modern elegance, this train turns one of Japan’s most scenic routes into an experience to savour.

Experience the Saphir Odoriko with Revigorate. Leave the planning to us, request a quote or contact our team at (+1 800 672 0517 | +351 289 009 580 | +44 808 189 0647) and let us help you design a journey that stays with you long after the trip ends.

Explore our other featured luxury sleeper trains: Seven Stars in Kyushu, which combines opulent interiors with journeys through Japan’s southern islands; the Twilight Express Mizukaze, gliding past the Sea of Japan and western Honshu’s cultural heartlands; or The Royal Express, celebrated for its artistry and refined dining as it travels through the Izu Peninsula and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

• When is the best time to visit Piedmont for food and wine?

  Autumn (October–December) is ideal for white truffles and peak Barolo/Barbaresco season. Late spring brings vibrant markets and early hazelnuts.

• Do I need to book winery visits in advance?

  Yes. Leading estates require reservations for private tastings and cellar tours, and booking early secures preferred producers and times.

• Are truffle hunts available year-round?

  White truffles are typically October–December; black truffles appear late spring to early autumn. Guided hunts provide the most authentic experience.

• Is Piedmont suitable for vegetarians or dietary restrictions?

  Yes—expect excellent cheeses, pastas, and seasonal produce. Most Michelin restaurants can adapt menus with advance notice.

• How many days should I spend in Piedmont?

  Allow 4–7 days to enjoy tastings, truffle hunts, Michelin dining, markets, and a cooking class at a relaxed pace.