Train Suite Shiki-shima:
Nagano, Southern Hokkaido, and Tohoku

A luxury sleeper train operated by JR East. Shiki-shima isn’t just one of Japan’s most luxurious trains, it is a moving sanctuary designed for deeper discovery through Japan. With a limited number of suites and curated multi-day itineraries, it offers an experience as rare as it is refined. Designed by industrial designer Ken Kiyoyuki Okuyama, the design is a combination of modern engineering with subtle traditional influences.

But Shiki-shima is more than aesthetics. It’s a philosophy of slow travel, where every bend in the track brings you closer to the spirit of Tohoku and Hokkaido. This is not a train for rushing. It is for those who value privacy, luxury, and the kind of rare experiences that leave an imprint long after the journey ends. Let's step aboard, shall we?

Train Suite Shiki-shima Carriages

Each carriage aboard Train Suite Shiki-shima is designed for comfort and a deep connection to Japan’s elements and seasonal beauty. The materials used are chosen with intention and purpose: natural woods, washi textures, lacquered finishes, and soft lighting that shifts with the time of day.

Lounge Komorebi (Car No. 5)

Located in Car No. 5 of the Train Suite Shiki-shima. It features large windows, sofa seating, and a fireplace-style display. The lounge is furnished with beautiful artwork pieces from each region of eastern Japan. The design includes traditional materials like wood and washi paper. Here, you can relax, enjoy views of the passing scenery, and access drinks and light refreshments, or perhaps take it as an opportunity to chat with your fellow travelers and spend some time together with a nice cocktail.

Dining Shiki-shima (Car No. 6)

Dining on Shiki-shima is a deeply regional experience with each itinerary bringing its own culinary collaborators, from Michelin-starred chefs to revered local artisans. The menu changes depending on the route and features seasonal ingredients from the regions the train travels through, giving you a unique, customise experience. Dine under the soft lighting of an exclusively designed chandelier complete with furniture that brings out the traditional craftsmanship of eastern Japan.

Shiki-shima Suite Room (Car No. 7)

These are the most exclusive accommodations on board as there are only two Shiki-shima Suites existing, each occupying a corner of Car No. 7. It has a split-level layout with a bedroom and a separate living area, plus a private bathroom with a cypress wood bath. The room features wide windows that frame the countryside like a moving portrait, tatami-style flooring, washi partitions, and curated art pieces. It is, in essence, a private ryokan on rails.

Deluxe Suite Room (Car No. 7)

Also located in Car No. 7, the Deluxe Suite Rooms are slightly more compact yet equally elegant. The room features an open space area with high ceiling and a fireplace, and large windows that encourage slow mornings with tea and the scenery beyond. The room is designed with traditional Japanese patterns and washi paper, lacquers and stones for a sophisticated atmosphere. It also features a cypress wood bath.

Suite Room (Car No. 2, 3, 4, 8, 9,)

These Suite Rooms are anything but standard. Each room features a private lavatory, wash basin, a small seating area, and the two sofas transform into two beds at night. The layout is compact but thoughtfully designed, with details like warm wood finishes and traditional textiles.

View Terrace Kizashi/Ibuki (Car No. 1 & 10)

Framing both ends of the train are two panoramic observation cars lined with special contoured windows, which provide an excellent viewing experience of the passing scenery. The observation car also features handwoven carpets from Yamagata Prefecture. It’s a quiet spot to pause, take photos, or just watch Japan roll by.

Train Suite Shiki-shima Itineraries

Nagano (2-Day/1-Night)

Route: Ueno – Niitsu – Obasute – Chikumagawa Wine Valley – Shimo-Suwa – Ueno

Day 1 – Ueno to Niitsu

Your journey begins at 09:10 as the Train Suite Shiki-shima departs from Ueno Station in Tokyo. Onboard the train, settle into your suite, then make your way to Dining Shiki-shima for an exquisite Chinese lunch curated by Chef Katsuya Shiraiwa of Baiyan Restaurant.

By 14:40, the train arrives at Niitsu Station, Niigata Prefecture, a region once shaped by the opulence of the Kitamaebune trading routes. Here, you'll step back in time with a guided visit to the Niigata Saito Villa, built in 1918 by one of Niigata’s wealthiest merchant families. Walk through finely preserved rooms and gardens.

Back aboard by 17:30, dinner is served as the view from the outside fades into twilight. Tonight’s meal is a French course by Train Suite Shiki-shima’s Executive Chef Takuya Saito, featuring the best of eastern Japan’s seasonal produce. After dinner, unwind in Lounge Komorebi with a cocktail and a view of the passing countryside.

Day 2 – Obasute to Ueno

Wake up early for an unforgettable sunrise stop at Obasute Station at 05:30. Known as one of Japan’s “three great train views,” the panoramic view of the Zenkoji Daira basin is breathtaking in the morning light and you surely wouldn’t want to miss that. However, Lounge Komorebi is open if you prefer to sip a coffee while watching the mist rise over the hills instead.

By 07:00, you'll arrive at Shinonoi Station, gateway to the Chikumagawa Wine Valley. Once blanketed in mulberry fields, this region now flourishes with vineyards thanks to its sunny climate and well-drained soil. Enjoy a farm-to-table breakfast at VILLA D’EST CAFE, prepared by Chef Takaomi Murayama. The sunlit dining room overlooks the estate’s vineyards, with fresh local cheeses, house-made granola, and Shinshu fruit jam completing the spread.

A short stroll leads you through VILLA D’EST GARDENFARM AND WINERY, founded in 2003 by artist Toyoo Tamamura.

Back on board by 11:50, a final lunch awaits you. Chef Masahiro Tanabe of Hikariya-Nishi serves a contemporary take on Shinshu’s culinary heritage. His restaurant is known for close ties with local farmers and it shines through in this closing meal.

Your journey concludes at Ueno Station at 16:50. A farewell gathering in Prologue Shiki-shima offers one last toast with your fellow travellers and crew, wrapping up your journey through Japan’s mountainous central region.

Prices:

Contact us for pricing

Inclusions:

• One night aboard the Train Suite Shiki-shima in a luxury suite
• All meals included:
• Day 1 lunch by Chef Katsuya Shiraiwa (Chinese cuisine)
• Day 1 dinner by Executive Chef Takuya Saito (French cuisine)
• Day 2 breakfast by Chef Takaomi Murayama (Farm-to-table)
• Day 2 lunch by Chef Masahiro Tanabe (Contemporary Shinshu)
• Sightseeing at Niigata Saito Villa and Chikumagawa Wine Valley
• Access to Lounge Komorebi (Car 5)
• Dedicated suite attendant service
• Welcome and farewell ceremonies at Ueno Station

Southern Hokkaido & Tohoku (4-Day/3-Night)

Route: Ueno – Hakodate – Shiraoi – Toya – Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto – Aomori – Naruko-Onsen – Ueno

Day 1 – Ueno Departure

Your journey begins at 11:00 as the Train Suite Shiki-shima pulls away from Ueno Station. Lunch is served in Dining Shiki-shima, featuring Japanese cuisine from Chef Yoshihisa Akiyama of Mutsukari in Ginza.

Your dinner later in the evening is a French fine dining feast by Executive Chef Takuya Saito. Afterward, wind down in Lounge Komorebi, with a cocktail in hand.

Day 2 – Hokkaido & Ainu Culture

The train arrives in Hakodate at 06:10. After disembarking, a private charter bus will take you to a nice breakfast at Japanese Restaurant Fumoto, located at the base of Mt. Hakodate. Chef Yuji Ogata prepares an authentic seafood breakfast like shoyu-marinated salmon roe and sashimi-grade squid—both local favourites.

Next, a reserved Hakodate City Tram takes you through town in classic style, before you return to the train. As the journey continues, lunch is prepared by Yuya Sekikawa of climat (Hokuto), a culinary tribute to southern Hokkaido’s food culture.

By 14:30, the train pulls into Shiraoi Station for a stop at the Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park. Here, you’ll get to watch traditional dances, explore the museum’s exhibits, and learn about the craftsmanship and music that have earned UNESCO recognition.

Return to your evening accommodation in the Noboribetsu or Shikotsuko area.

Day 3 – Hokkaido to Aomori

At 10:50, depart from Tōya Station and savour lunch on board. Today’s meal comes from Molière Café "Come Rain or Come Shine" in Sapporo by Chef Keiji Miyata, who infuses each plate with joy and imagination, using Hokkaido's freshest produce.

In the afternoon, the train makes a brief stop at Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station before continuing south into Honshu.

By 21:20, the train departs Aomori Station for an overnight journey back toward Tohoku. Lounge Komorebi remains open for a nightcap.

Day 4 – Naruko Onsen back to Ueno

Wake up to a relaxed breakfast on board. Then, at 06:40, arrive at Naruko-Onsen Station, one of eastern Japan’s revered hot springs. You’ll have free time for a stroll through this charming town, where traditional kokeshi dolls and the faint scent of sulfur fill the morning air.

Back on board by 09:30, lunch is a sushi experience by Chef Masahiro Abe of Sushimasa (Ishinomaki). Located in a port town near the Sanriku Coast, home to one of the world’s top fishing zones.

At 17:30, the train returns to Ueno Station. Assemble at the Prologue Shiki-shima and raise a final glass with your fellow passengers and toast to four extraordinary days aboard Train Suite Shiki-shima.

Prices:

Contact us for pricing

Inclusions:

• Three nights aboard the Train Suite Shiki-shima in a luxury suite
• All meals included:
• Day 1 lunch by Chef Yoshihisa Akiyama (Mutsukari, Tokyo)
• Day 1 dinner by Executive Chef Takuya Saito
• Day 2 breakfast by Chef Yuji Ogata (Fumoto, Hakodate)
• Day 2 lunch by Chef Yuya Sekikawa (climat, Hokuto)
• Day 3 lunch by Chef Keiji Miyata (Molière Café, Sapporo)
• Day 4 breakfast by Train Suite Shiki-shima chefs
• Day 4 lunch by Chef Masahiro Abe (Sushimasa, Ishinomaki)
• Guided sightseeing at:
• Hakodate and historic tram tour
• Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park
• Jomon or Kuroishi sightseeing route
• Free time at Naruko Onsen
• Access to Lounge Komorebi (Car 5)
• Dedicated suite attendant service
• Welcome and farewell ceremonies at Ueno Station

Where to Stay

Tokyo

• Aman Tokyo (5 star): If you want views of the city skyline and, on clear days, Mt. Fuji. Look no further than Aman Tokyo, the hotel features traditional Japanese elements like washi paper, timber, and stone. Rooms are spacious, with clean lines, deep soaking tubs, and floor-to-ceiling windows.

• Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi (5 star): Located close to Ueno Station. The hotel features direct views of the Imperial Palace gardens. The rooms are modern and well-designed, with large windows and comfortable spaces to relax or work. There’s also a French restaurant, a rooftop bar, and a wellness floor with a spa, fitness centre, and an indoor pool.
  
  

• Mitsui Garden Hotel Ueno (4 star): Located just a short walk from Ueno Station. The rooms here are compact but efficient, with modern furnishings and all the basics covered. The hotel has a casual restaurant serving breakfast with both Japanese and Western options. It’s a solid choice if you prefer a casual yet comfortable stay as you wait to board the Train Suite Shiki-shima.

• Hotel MONday Premium Ueno Okachimachi (4 star): A modern, apartment-style hotel designed for longer stays and small groups. The rooms here are spacious and include kitchenettes, separate living areas, and laundry access. It’s ideal for families or small groups.

• Hotel Graphy Nezu (3 star): A community-style hotel located in a quiet neighbourhood near Ueno Park. The hotel offers a mix of private rooms and dorm-style options, plus shared spaces like a kitchen, lounge, rooftop, and café. The vibe here is relaxed and social, the best choice if you want a more local feel. It’s close to museums, the park, and the old-town charm of Yanaka.

Where to Eat

Tokyo

• Shimbashi Hoshino: A kappo-style restaurant in Tokyo that serves seasonal Japanese dishes with a focus on balance and simplicity. Chef Yoshinobu Hoshino prepares each course in front of guests at the counter, mixing cooked and raw dishes depending on what’s fresh. It’s the kind of place where you’d love to keep on coming back for the chef’s careful technique and solid hospitality.

• Nihonbashi Kakigaracho Sugita: A top-tier sushi restaurant in Tokyo run by Chef Takaaki Sugita. It serves Edomae-style omakase with a focus on clean flavours, precise technique, and seasonal seafood. It's a beloved spot for sushi lovers who appreciate subtlety over flash.

• Ginza Shinohara: A two-starred Michelin restaurant in Tokyo led by Chef Takemasa Shinohara. Originally from Shiga Prefecture, he brings a mix of Kansai traditions and creative touches to each seasonal course. The vibe is polished but warm, with a strong focus on hospitality.

• Yoroniku: A high-end yakiniku restaurant known for its careful approach to grilled meat. Cuts are served in a specific order to match flavour and texture, and staff help grill each piece at your table for the best result. The menu includes premium wagyu and unique dishes like their signature ice cream dessert. It’s a good spot if you’re up for some high quality meat instead of just a casual BBQ.

Nagano

• Yukimoto: A Japanese restaurant in Iida City, surrounded by the Central and Southern Alps. The restaurant serves seasonal dishes made with local ingredients like wild vegetables, river fish, and game, with focus on clean flavours that bring out the natural taste of each ingredient. It's a place where you can enjoy regional cooking in a calm, well-designed space.

• LA CASA DI Tetsuo Ota: A seasonal Italian restaurant in Karuizawa that opens only 50 days a year (25 days in spring and 25 in autumn). The dishes are made with local ingredients like wild vegetables and mushrooms, prepared with refined techniques in a quiet, minimalist space. It’s a rare dining experience with a strong local following, and many are already looking forward to its next chapter in 2027.

• Unagi no Matsuka: A long-standing eel restaurant in Matsumoto known for its no-shortcuts approach. The unagi is grilled over charcoal and served with house-made tare sauce that’s been refined over time. The portions are generous and the setting is traditional and low-key, with tatami seating and a relaxed pace. It’s a solid choice if you’re in the mood for well-prepared eel done the old-school way.

• Sushi Miyakawa: A Michelin-starred sushi restaurant in Sapporo run by Chef Masaki Miyakawa. The restaurant serves omakase-style courses with a focus on seasonal seafood, much of it sourced from Hokkaido.

• Aji Dokoro: Known for its fresh seafood and straightforward Hokkaido dishes. The menu includes items like sashimi, grilled fish, and seasonal specials, with ingredients sourced from nearby markets. It’s a small, no-fuss place with counter and table seating, popular with locals.

• Parco Fiera: An Italian restaurant in Sapporo. The restaurant features a creative mix of charcuterie like ham and salami, alongside fresh seafood, vegetables, and meats from Hokkaido. The dishes are prepared with a mix of local produce and imported Italian staples. The space is small and relaxed, with an open kitchen and counter seating that gives it a casual, friendly vibe.

• Sushisai Wakichi: A long-standing sushi spot in Sapporo known for its traditional Edomae-style sushi. Chef Tamura serves an omakase course that highlights fresh, seasonal seafood, much of it from local Hokkaido waters. The space is small and quiet, with counter seating that lets you watch each piece being made.

Other Things to Do

Tokyo

• Nezu Museum & Garden: Before (or after) your travel, why not explore traditional Japanese art in a serene modern space, with a garden that feels worlds away from the city. It’s a nice extension to your journey in Train Suite Shiki-shima.

• Ginza Art Walk & Shopping: Discover boutique galleries and Japan’s top fashion houses in Ginza, and experience the fast paced fashion vibe of Tokyo.

• Private Tea Ceremony in Yanaka: Enjoy a contemporary take on a traditional tea ceremony in a quiet, preserved neighbourhood close to Ueno.

• Sumo Stable Morning Practice Viewing: Before you hop aboard the Train Suite Shiki-shima, spend your morning witnessing the discipline and intensity of early-morning sumo training in Ryogoku, paired with a chanko nabe breakfast.

Nagano

• Matsumoto Castle: Tour one of Japan’s most beautiful original castles, with samurai weaponry exhibits and mountain views.

• Togakushi Shrine Pilgrimage Trail: Walk through towering cedar forests to a trio of ancient shrines. We can book you a private guide to help you explore the place.

• Soba-Making Workshop in Togakushi: Learn the delicate art of hand-cut soba noodles using Shinshu buckwheat. 

• Snow Monkey Park: Visit the hot spring-loving monkeys of Jigokudani before they retreat into the forest for the summer.

Hokkaido

• Lake Tōya Hot Spring Retreats: Unwind with lakefront onsen stays and panoramic open-air baths at The Windsor Hotel Toya.

• Mt. Hakodate Night View by Ropeway: Considered one of Japan’s top three night views. We can book you a private gondola or dinner at the mountaintop restaurant.

• Farm-to-Table Cooking Class near Sapporo: Visit local farms then prepare Hokkaido specialties like dairy-based dishes, Jingisukan lamb, and fresh pasta.

Your Passage Begins Here

Train Suite Shiki-shima is not a checklist of sights or a string of destinations, it’s a quietly transformative journey. Long after the last station fades into the distance, what remains isn’t a list of places you visited, but the experience, the people, the culture, and the collective stories you’ve heard.

If you're ready to travel not just across Japan (but deeper into it), this is where it begins. Contact us or give us a call at (+1 800 672 0517 | +351 289 009 580 | +44 808 189 0647) and leave the planning to us at Revigorate.