Spacia X: Asakusa,
Tokyo Skytree, Tobu Nikko, and Kinugawa Onsen

Japan has many iconic luxury trains built for grand, multi-day journeys like the Seven Stars in Kyushu, Twilight Express Mizukaze, and the Train Suite Shiki-shima, but Spacia X offers a different kind of luxury: something elegant, modern, and easy to enjoy even on a simple day trip. At Spacia X, you’ll find sculpted seats, soft indirect lighting, and interiors influenced by traditional Nikko craftsmanship, all expressed in a clean, contemporary style. Even the lounge café and the signature cockpit seats feel more like a boutique hotel than a regular express train.

From the moment you step onboard, you’re not just traveling to Nikko or Kinugawa, you’re entering a space designed to make your journey feel calm, refreshing, and enjoyable.

Spacia X Carriages

The Spacia X is a six-car train offering six different seating options, from standard seats to a luxurious private suite, so you can choose the level of comfort and experience that fits your journey and style best.

Cockpit Lounge (Car No. 1)

This lounge is designed like a classic resort hotel, with comfy sofas and chairs for solo travellers, couples, or small groups. It’s also where you’ll find the onboard GOEN café, so you can order drinks and snacks during the ride. If your train places this car at the front, you’ll enjoy wide, panoramic windows that let you see the tracks and scenery ahead, one of the most unique views on the entire Spacia X.

Premium Seats (Car No. 2)

If you want extra comfort, Car 2 offers a business-class–style experience. The seats are arranged in a roomy 2+1 layout, giving you plenty of personal space and generous legroom. Each seat has its own back-shell design, so when you recline, you won’t disturb anyone behind you. You also get electric reclining and an adjustable neck pillow, perfect for relaxing on longer rides.

Standard Seats (Car No. 3-5)

If you prefer a practical yet comfortable option, the Standard Seats are a great fit for you. Cars 3-5 features a 2+2 layout seat with a roomy 110 cm seat pitch, giving you enough space to relax. Each seat comes with its own window view, a foldable table, a small armrest table, and a power outlet, everything you need for a smooth and comfortable ride.

Box Seats (Car No. 5)

Traveling with a friend or family member? The Box Seats offer a cozy, semi-private space. These two-person seats face each other and are separated by partitions for added privacy. Each box comes with its own window, reclining seats, power outlets, and tables, which makes it a comfortable spot to chat, relax, and enjoy the views together.

Compartment Rooms and Cockpit Suite (Car No. 6)

Car 6 offers the train’s most private and exclusive spaces, the Compartment Rooms and the Cockpit Suite. The Compartment Rooms are fully enclosed rooms that seat up to four people, designed with U-shaped sofas and a foldable table, ideal if you’re traveling as a couple, family, or small group and want your own quiet space.

For the most premium experience, the Cockpit Suite is the standout choice. This spacious 11 m² private room can accommodate up to seven people and feels like a moving private lounge. It’s furnished with armchairs and sofas, and its signature feature is the glass wall facing the driver’s cab, giving you an incredible front-row view of the tracks ahead. If you want full privacy, comfort, and a once-in-a-lifetime view and experience, this is the best seat on the train.

Spacia X Destinations

The Spacia X runs between Tokyo and the Nikko/Kinugawa Onsen areas, mainly connecting Asakusa to Tobu Nikko and Asakusa to Kinugawa Onsen, and makes limited stops at the following stations along its routes.

Asakusa

Asakusa is the main starting and ending point for the Spacia X in Tokyo, linking the city’s vibrant streets to the temples, forests, and hot springs of Nikko and Kinugawa Onsen. It offers that classic “Old Tokyo” feel, making it a perfect place to begin or wrap up your journey.

Before or after your trip, you can explore nearby attractions like Sensō-ji Temple and Nakamise-dori Shopping Street for souvenirs and street snacks.

Think of Asakusa as your cultural starting point, full of history and energy, before you settle into the train’s comfort and head north to the peaceful mountains and onsen towns of Tochigi. If you plan to stay longer in Asakusa, check out our Tokyo travel guide for more ways to explore the city.

Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is another convenient boarding point for the Spacia X and gives you easy access to one of Tokyo’s most iconic modern landmarks. It’s a nice contrast to the traditional vibe of Asakusa and the historical sites you’ll see in Nikko.

If you’re starting your trip here, you can enjoy city views from the tower before heading to the mountains. If you’re returning to Tokyo, it’s a great destination to explore after your ride.

You can visit the two observation decks—the Tembo Deck for wide city views and the Tembo Galleria, a higher deck with a glass, skywalk-style corridor. At the base, you’ll find Tokyo Solamachi, a large shopping and dining complex with attractions like the Sumida Aquarium and a planetarium, all directly connected to the station.

Kita-Senju

If you want to see the city beyond its major tourist spots, Kita-Senju still carries a nostalgic, old-Tokyo charm. Historically, it is the first post town north of Edo on the road to Nikko.

Here, you’ll find narrow lanes, small shops, and traditional eateries that feel like stepping back in time. It’s a great place to wander if you want an authentic look at how locals live, eat, and shop.

Kita-Senju is also well-known for its food scene. Explore the backstreets for cozy izakayas and neighborhood restaurants, or stroll through shopping arcades like Senju Honcho Street to get a feel for daily life in Tokyo.

It may not have a big landmark, but its atmosphere, history, and local character make it a relaxing and culturally rich stop or destination.

Kasukabe

Kasukabe is a suburban stop in Saitama Prefecture that some Spacia X trains pass through. While it’s not a major tourist hub like Asakusa or Nikko, it offers a few fun and unique experiences, especially if you enjoy Japanese pop culture or local craftsmanship.

The city is best known in Japan as the setting of the popular anime Crayon Shin-chan, so fans often visit to see spots connected to the series, including the local mall and the Buriburizaemon statue outside the station.

If you’re into engineering or architecture, Kasukabe is also home to the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel, a huge underground flood-control system often called the “Underground Temple.” Tours require advance booking, and we can arrange this for you.

Overall, Kasukabe gives you a peek into everyday suburban life in the Kanto region, adding an interesting local touch to your Spacia X journey.

Shimo-imaichi

An important junction on the Spacia X route, and it’s where the lines split, one toward Tobu Nikko, the other toward Kinugawa Onsen. If you’re heading to Kinugawa Onsen or Tobu World Square, this is the station where some passengers transfer, while direct Spacia X trains continue on their track from here.

The station has been redesigned with a charming Showa-era nostalgic look, making it feel like you’ve stepped into an old Japanese railway scene. While there aren’t big attractions around the station, it offers a quiet slice of rural Japan, perfect for stretching your legs, enjoying the retro atmosphere, or grabbing a small local snack before continuing your journey to your main destination.

Tobu World Square

A fun and unique stop on some Spacia X routes, located just before Kinugawa Onsen. If you’re traveling with kids, love architecture, or want something different from the usual nature and shrine-hopping, this is the destination to be.

The park features over 100 miniature replicas of famous landmarks from around the world, including 46 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, all built at 1/25 scale with impressive detail. You’ll see everything from the Eiffel Tower to the pyramids, complete with tiny scenes filled with 140,000 miniature people.

It’s a light, playful experience before soaking in the hot springs at Kinugawa Onsen, giving you an easy and enjoyable way to “travel the world” in just a few hours.

Tobu Nikko

Tobu Nikko is the highlight of the Spacia X route, your gateway to some of Japan’s most important historical sites and one of the country’s most beautiful natural regions. The train is designed to bring you here comfortably, so you can step straight into a UNESCO World Heritage landscape the moment you arrive.

From the station, you’re just a short walk or bus ride from Nikko’s famous Shrines and Temples, including Tōshō-gū, Futarasan-jinja, and Rinnō-ji. Don’t miss Shinkyo Bridge, the bright red sacred bridge that serves as the symbolic entrance to the entire area and makes a perfect first photo stop.

Beyond the cultural treasures, Tobu Nikko is also the starting point for exploring Nikko National Park, filled with waterfalls, forests, and scenic mountain trails. Around the station you can also try local specialties, like yuba (or tofu skin).

If you’re taking the Spacia X, this is the destination where the journey truly pays off: a seamless connection from Tokyo’s urban energy to one of Japan’s most spiritual and naturally stunning regions.

Kinugawa Onsen

Kinugawa Onsen is the final stop on the second Spacia X route, a peaceful hot spring town in Tochigi Prefecture that’s perfect if you’re looking to slow down and relax after exploring Tokyo or Nikko. This is where the journey shifts from sightseeing to unwinding.

Most visitors come here for the ryokan (traditional inns) that line the river gorge. Many offer open-air hot spring baths with beautiful views of the cliffs and forest, ideal if you want a quiet overnight stay with restorative onsen time and a traditional kaiseki dinner.

If you enjoy gentle adventure, you can take a seasonal boat ride down the Kinugawa River, where boatmen guide you past rock formations and forested scenery. The area is also dotted with suspension bridges, including the famous Kinu Tateiwa Otsuribashi, which offer great photo spots and access to short walking trails along the gorge.

As part of your Spacia X itinerary, Kinugawa Onsen serves as the perfect chill destination, a calm, nature-filled contrast to the cultural depth of Tobu Nikko and the lively energy of Asakusa.

Where to Stay on the Spacia X Journey

Asakusa

• MIMARU Suites Tokyo Asakusa: This apartment-style hotel sits right in the historic Asakusa district and is only a 1–3 minute walk from Asakusa Station, perfect if you’re catching the Spacia X early in the morning or arriving late. Every room here is a spacious suite with two separate bedrooms and a living area, often over 60 sqm. If you’re traveling with family or a group, this setup gives you plenty of room to spread out while still enjoying shared space. It’s a comfortable, convenient base before or after your journey to Nikko or Kinugawa Onsen.

• The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon by HULIC (4 stars): Just 2–5 minute walk from Asakusa Station, this stylish, modern hotel sits right across from Kaminarimon, the famous gate of Sensō-ji Temple, so you’re immediately surrounded by Asakusa’s iconic attraction. With upscale rooms and great city views, it’s a comfortable and convenient place to stay before or after your journey to Nikko or Kinugawa Onsen.

• Asakusa View Hotel Annex Rokku (4 stars): Around 7–10 minutes on foot from Asakusa Station, this modern annex offers an easy, straightforward walk through one of the liveliest corners of the neighbourhood. The rooms are thoughtfully designed and comfortably sized for Tokyo, giving you the space you need to settle in before or after your Spacia X experience. Many guestrooms feature clear views of the surrounding Asakusa skyline or the Tokyo Skytree, especially atmospheric in the evening as the district lights up. It is an ideal base for easing into your arrival, exploring the area on foot, or unwinding after a full day of sightseeing.

Tokyo Skytree

• One@Tokyo by Insomnia (3 stars): Located in the Oshiage area near Tokyo Skytree, this hotel gives you easy access to the Spacia X route. The design leans into an industrial-chic style, using materials like reclaimed wood and concrete for a clean, modern look. One of the biggest highlights for guests is the rooftop terrace, which offers an incredible, unobstructed view of the Skytree.

• Richmond Hotel Premier Tokyo Schole (3 stars): If you want comfort, space, and unbeatable proximity to the Skytree and Spacia X, this hotel is a great fit. Thanks to its direct access to the Tokyo Skytree area and excellent transport links. You can appreciate the larger-than-usual rooms, which are clean, comfortable, and well-designed. Many rooms even offer close-up views of the Skytree, giving you a stunning sight to wake up to or enjoy before heading out on your journey.
  

Tobu Nikko

• Nikko Kanaya Hotel (4 stars): Japan's oldest Western-style resort hotel (established in 1873), Nikko Kanaya Hotel is the perfect choice if you want your stay to feel like part of the journey, not just a place to sleep. Conveniently located near Nikko’s main attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the shrines, temples, and natural scenery. Inside, you’ll find a blend of classic Western design and touches inspired by nearby Tōshō-gū Shrine, including traditional wood carvings. The rooms range from historic originals to updated modern options. All are clean, comfortable, and often more spacious than the typical Japanese hotel room.

• Kokage Villa Nikko: If you prefer a modern, private, and home-like stay, Kokage Villa Nikko is a great choice. Instead of a traditional ryokan or hotel, you get your own fully private villa, perfect for families or groups who want space and privacy. The villa has a clean, minimalist design with warm wood interiors and large windows that bring in lots of natural light and views of the surrounding greenery. It feels peaceful, contemporary, and comfortable.

Kinugawa Onsen

• Kinugawa Kanaya Hotel (5 stars): Around 5–8 minutes by taxi from Kinugawa-Onsen Station, this elegant riverside retreat offers a smooth and uncomplicated arrival after your Spacia X journey. The rooms are spacious by onsen-resort standards, giving you plenty of room to settle in and enjoy the calm atmosphere. Many feature private open-air baths or wide river views, especially relaxing in the evening as the valley quietens and the lights reflect off the water. It is an ideal base for easing into the hot-spring experience, exploring the Kinugawa area, or unwinding after a day of visiting the Nikkō sights.

• Kinugawa Grand Hotel Yumenotoki (4 stars): A long-established ryokan situated on a quiet hill, giving you a peaceful and exclusive escape from the busier parts of town. You can stroll through its beautiful Japanese garden, which changes with the seasons and adds to the calm, relaxing atmosphere. One of the many highlights of this ryokan is the kaiseki dinner, made with seasonal local ingredients like Nikko yuba (tofu skin) and Tochigi beef, and is served in private dining rooms, so you can enjoy them at your own pace without crowds. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with options for traditional tatami-and-futon setups or Japanese-Western rooms with beds and a tatami area. Many rooms overlook the mountains or garden, giving you a peaceful view to wake up to.

Where to Eat 

Asakusa

• Nabeno-Ism: A Michelin-starred restaurant that combines modern French techniques with local Japanese and old Edo flavors. Located along the Sumida River, it gives you an elegant dining experience with beautiful views of the water and the Tokyo Skytree. Here, you'll enjoy a seasonal course menu, with dishes that highlight Chef Watanabe’s creativity and local ingredients. Be sure to try their sobagaki (made from soba flour) and signature sweets like kaminari-okoshi and monaka, which offer a refined take on classic Japanese treats.
• Nacol Asakusa: Located inside a quiet residential pocket of Asakusa, Nacol is an intimate, reservation-only Italian restaurant with just eight seats. Here, you’ll enjoy a multi-course meal where prosciutto is the highlight, but the experience goes far beyond that. Expect freshly made pastas like pici with amatriciana sauce and seasonal seafood dishes with subtle Japanese twists.
• Oku Asakusa: A Michelin-starred sushi restaurant tucked inside the quieter, more residential side of Asakusa. It’s known for its traditional Edomae-style sushi and calm, elegant atmosphere. With only nine seats at a simple wooden counter. Since the restaurant serves only a seasonal omakase, you’ll be treated to a curated lineup of the chef’s best creations when you dine here.
• Men Mitsui: A small, Michelin Bib Gourmand–recommended ramen shop hidden in a quiet alley near Asakusa and Tawaramachi. With only about 10 counter seats, it offers an intimate dining experience where the focus is entirely on the bowl in front of you. The shop keeps its menu small so every ramen is made with precision. Be sure to try their signature Shoyu Ramen, a clear, amber broth made from chicken stock and soy sauce. It’s rich, balanced, and often praised as one of the best bowls in the area. Perfect for a comforting meal before or after your Spacia X trip.

Tokyo Skytree

• Wagyu Maison: This stylish yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) restaurant in Oshiage, is just a two-minute walk from Oshiage Station and close to the Tokyo Skytree. The restaurant is known for serving premium Japanese Wagyu in a more intimate, upscale setting than typical BBQ spots. If you enjoy beef tartare, don’t miss their signature Chateaubriand Yukke™. It’s made from top-grade Wagyu and is loved for its rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavor.
• Piccole Lampare & Sky Bar: A lively Italian restaurant and rooftop bar in Oshiage, just a short walk from Oshiage Station. The rooftop seating gives you great views of the tower, especially at night. One of their most popular dishes is the charcoal-grilled hamburger steak, known for its juicy texture and smoky flavor. The bar also offers a good selection of drinks, from red, white, and sparkling wines to cocktails and homemade sangria.
• Unazen Tokyo: Just a short walk from Honjo-Azumabashi or Oshiage Station, this well-loved traditional unagi (eel) restaurant is perfect if you’re exploring the Tokyo Skytree area but want to eat somewhere more local and authentic. At Unazen, the eel is prepared fresh after you order, so expect to wait for about 40 minutes to an hour. Their signature dish is grilled unagi served over rice in a lacquered box, with size options like jou (regular) and tokujou (special) depending on your appetite. If you prefer to focus on the eel itself, you can also order it on its own, simply grilled and seasoned.
• Yakitori Omino: A Michelin-starred yakitori restaurant where grilled chicken is treated like fine dining. The restaurant is intimate, and every skewer is cooked over premium Kishu Binchotan charcoal. You don’t choose your dishes here, instead the chef serves an omakase tasting menu based on the best seasonal ingredients of the day. You can expect a thoughtful progression of skewers featuring different parts of high-quality chicken, each grilled with precision.

Tobu Nikko

• Enya Nikko: A cozy, family-friendly gastropub just a short walk from Tobu Nikko Station. It has a warm, lodge-style atmosphere and offers a wide menu of grilled meats and local specialties. If you love a hearty meal, try their Tochigi Sirloin Steak set. The 180g portion is great value and comes with soup, salad, rice, and coffee. Their juicy hamburger steaks are also a favourite, and you can order them with fillings like scallop or shrimp.
• Trattoria Gigli: This Italian restaurant is just a short walk from Tobu Nikko Station, perfect if you want a comforting break from Japanese food during your trip. The chef trained in Italy and uses fresh, seasonal ingredients from Tochigi, so the dishes feel both authentic and local. Try their creamy carbonara, homemade potato gnocchi, or the stewed beef cheek.

Kinugawa Onsen

• Mizube no Cafe Terrace (Waterside Cafe Terrace): Just a 5-minute walk from Kinugawa Onsen Station, this stylish waterside café is a lovely place to unwind between sightseeing stops. Its peaceful setting by a small pond makes it perfect for a slow meal or coffee break. Here, you’ll find a varied menu, including seasonal dishes like the Wagyu Curry Rice, Ox Tongue Stew, and Sweets & Drinks including buckwheat galettes and homemade coffee jelly.
• Cafe Salon de The OKA: Located in the heart of Kinugawa Onsen, this cozy, elegant café (run by a husband-and-wife team) offers a welcoming atmosphere and beautifully curated interiors featuring Meissen and Royal Copenhagen porcelain. Their lunch sets are especially popular, usually including a seasonal appetizer, salad, main dish, and a drink. Try the Tochigi Wagyu Otawara Hamburger Lunch, a juicy, coarsely ground Wagyu patty served with a rich demi-glace sauce. It’s the dish most guests rave about and a great way to enjoy local Tochigi flavors during your trip.
• Baumkuchen Studio Hachiya: Just a one-minute walk from Kinugawa Onsen Station, this specialty shop is a must-visit if you love sweets or want to bring home a local treat. Baumkuchen (Germany’s famous layered cake that Japan has wholeheartedly embraced) is made fresh here by skilled artisans using ingredients sourced from the Nikko and Kinugawa area. Their signature baumkuchen is soft, fluffy, and moist, and comes in different sizes, so you can enjoy a slice on the spot or take one home as a souvenir.

Other Things to Do

Asakusa

• Senso-ji Temple: One of Tokyo’s most famous and culturally important Buddhist temples, located right in the heart of Asakusa. Since it’s only a short walk from Asakusa Station, it’s an ideal stop before or after your Spacia X journey. Here, you can walk through the iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), browse the lively shops along Nakamise-dori, explore the temple grounds, and visit the neighbouring Asakusa Shrine. It’s an easy and enriching way to experience Tokyo’s history up close.

• Sumida River Walk: A pedestrian bridge and riverside promenade that links the traditional streets of Asakusa to the modern Tokyo Skytree Town. It’s an easy, relaxing stroll, perfect for starting your day or winding it down. After exploring Sensō-ji and the busy alleys of Asakusa, this calm walkway gives you a peaceful change of pace, with lovely views of the river and city skyline as you go.

Tokyo Skytree

• Tokyo Skytree: The world’s tallest freestanding broadcasting tower and a major modern landmark in the Oshiage area. It’s a striking contrast to the old-town charm of Asakusa and the history of Nikko. If you’re boarding or ending your trip here, the surrounding Tokyo Skytree Town has plenty of things to enjoy like the shops, restaurants, and attractions.

• Tokyo Solamachi: A large shopping and dining complex right at the base of the Tokyo Skytree, giving you a vibrant, modern stop before or after your Spacia X trip. With more than 300 shops, cafes, and family-friendly attractions, it’s easy to spend a few hours (or more) here. Whether you want to grab a meal, pick up souvenirs, or explore with kids, Solamachi offers plenty to enjoy before heading to the historic shrines of Nikko or the relaxing hot springs of Kinugawa.

Tobu Nikko

• Nikko Toshogu: The lavish shrine complex dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Edo shogunate, and is one of Japan’s most important UNESCO World Heritage sites. When you visit, you’ll walk through 55 beautifully crafted buildings, each filled with intricate details and vibrant colors. Be sure to take your time at Yōmeimon Gate, an 11-meter-tall masterpiece decorated with more than 500 carvings and gold leaf. As you explore, look out for famous carvings like The Three Wise Monkeys and The Sleeping Cat. You can also visit Ieyasu’s tomb, step into the on-site museums, and even observe or join traditional rituals, giving you a deeper connection to Japan’s history and spirituality.

• Nikko Futarasan-jinja Haiden: Located right beside the famous Tōshō-gū Shrine, Futarasan-jinja Haiden is part of a UNESCO-listed complex and offers a quieter, more spiritual atmosphere. This is the hall where you can offer prayers to the deities of Nikko’s three sacred mountains (Mount Nantai, Mount Nyoho, and Mount Taro). Many visitors come here to pray for good fortune, relationships, and safe travels. Take a moment to wander through the small shrine gardens, sip the sacred spring water said to bring blessings, and admire cultural treasures housed on the grounds.

• Shinkyo Bridge: The Shinkyo Bridge, or “Sacred Bridge,” is the striking vermilion arch that marks the entrance to Nikko’s UNESCO World Heritage area. It’s the perfect starting point for your visit. After your comfortable train ride, stopping here sets the tone for the rest of your journey. The bridge is also one of the most photogenic spots in Nikko, you can take beautiful photos of its bright red arch set against the emerald Daiya River and the surrounding forest from nearby viewpoints, all free to access.

• Nikko National Park: The vast, beautiful area that surrounds Tobu Nikko, bringing together historic temples, sacred sites, and some of Japan’s most stunning natural scenery. It’s the perfect place to slow down after your Spacia X journey and fully immerse yourself in nature and history. Here, you can explore forests, lakes, waterfalls, and mountains. The park also changes dramatically with the seasons, from fresh spring greens to vibrant autumn foliage, so every visit feels different.

Kinugawa Onsen

• Kinuta no Yu Footbath: A free public footbath right in front of Kinugawa Onsen Station, making it the perfect first (or last) stop on your visit. As soon as you step off the train, you can dip your feet into the warm spring water and get an immediate feel for the town’s onsen culture. If you arrive early for your Spacia X return trip, this footbath is a relaxing and convenient place to wait without having to find a café.

• Kinugawa Onsen Ropeway: A quick and scenic four-minute ride up Maruyama, and it’s easy to reach from Kinugawa Onsen Station thanks to a shuttle bus that takes you to the base. At the top, you’ll find an observation deck with wide views of Kinugawa Onsen and the surrounding mountains. There’s also a small shrine to explore and a “Monkey Mountain” area where a troupe of Japanese macaques lives. You can watch them up close, and for a small fee, feed them safely through a wire fence.

The New Face of Rail Travel in Japan

Stepping off Spacia X feels different from leaving any other train in Japan. You feel like you’ve experienced a new way of traveling. It’s luxury without the flash, comfort without the fuss. Spacia X shows that true elegance can come from quiet details.

If you’re planning a journey to Nikko, Kinugawa, or anywhere along the Tobu line, let us help you turn it into something unforgettable. Request a quote or contact our team at (+1 800 672 0517 | +351 289 009 580 | +44 808 189 0647) and we’ll design the journey that takes you there.

Explore our other featured luxury trains: A-Train, Saphir Odoriko, The Royal Express, Kyushu Express 36+3, and Aru Ressha. Or browse our self-guided itineraries for Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Hokkaido, Hakone and Mt. Fuji, and many more.