News On Japan

These 7 scenic trains offer the best views of Japan

Oct 12 (cntraveler.com) - Here are seven of the very best trains in Japan, from glamorous to panoramic and plain romantic.

Kurobe Gorge Railway

The Japan Alps—the mountain ranges running along the spine of central Honshu (the country’s main island)—have long been the nation’s geographical and spiritual heart, home to shrines and sacred sites, hot springs, and traditional farmers’ villages. A trip to the region is an absolute must, and the Kurobe Gorge Railway is the perfect sightseeing train to set the mood for it.

Originally built in the mid-1950s to serve the construction of the Kurobe dam, the line operates along a winding 12.4-mile stretch that crosses the Kurobe Gorge—one of the deepest gorges in Japan—linking the stations of Unazuki and Keyakidaira. On the 80-minute ride, guests can take in views of rugged mountain landscapes and steep cliff sides, a forested ravine and the gurgling Kurobe River, as they traverse more than 20 bridges and some 40 tunnels. Different stops along the way offer plenty of opportunities to go for a hike or, why not, stop at an open-air onsen.

Tickets start at $18 (or 2,610 yen). Be aware that the train operates seasonally from late April through November, and it’s most popular in October, when the fall foliage turns the hillsides into a tapestry of reds and yellows. If you go then, bring a jacket: most of the cabins are open-sided.

Gonoline ran to side of the Sea of Japan. Vehicle Transportation Train Watercraft and Vessel

Gono Line

Running along the western coast of the Aomori and Akita Prefectures in northern Japan—a region brimming with wild nature and volcanic mountain ranges—the 91.5-mile Gono Line is an important route for residents of the area. ...continue reading

News On Japan
POPULAR NEWS

From April 1st, a new regulation took effect across Osaka Prefecture requiring all restaurants with a customer seating area larger than 30 square meters to become entirely smoke-free indoors—unless they install a designated smoking room. Establishments violating the rule face fines of up to 50,000 yen, while customers may be fined up to 30,000 yen.

The Imperial Household Agency launched an official YouTube channel on April 1st to introduce the activities of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.

Japan's new fiscal year began on April 1st, with companies across the country holding entrance ceremonies to welcome new employees.

The Japanese government has released an updated damage forecast for a potential Nankai Trough megaquake, estimating that up to 298,000 people could die in the worst-case scenario. This projection reflects a slight reduction from the previous estimate of 332,000 deaths made 13 years ago.

The Japan Meteorological Agency announced on March 30th that cherry blossoms (Somei-Yoshino) in central Tokyo have reached full bloom, one day earlier than the historical average and five days earlier than last year.

MEDIA CHANNELS
         

MORE Travel NEWS

'Parade of Blue and the Night Rainbow' is a water and air spectacle show scheduled to be held during the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo.

A traditional spring event known as the 'Himesama Dochu' (Princess Procession) was held in Hamamatsu City, drawing large crowds along the route.

The Japan Meteorological Agency announced on March 30th that cherry blossoms (Somei-Yoshino) in central Tokyo have reached full bloom, one day earlier than the historical average and five days earlier than last year.

The eruption alert level for Mount Shinmoedake, part of the Kirishima mountain range on the border of Kagoshima and Miyazaki prefectures, has been raised to Level 3, or "entry restrictions," due to increased volcanic activity.

Explore the hidden gem of Okayama Prefecture, known for its scenic canals, top-tier garden, and famous folktale. Follow along on a three-day adventure through Kurashiki, the Kibiji District, Korakuen garden and Uno Port, the gateway to Japan’s art islands. (japan-guide.com)

An opening ceremony was held Saturday for the Japan Pavilion at the Osaka-Kansai Expo. As the host country's main exhibit, the pavilion is positioned as the symbolic "face" of the Expo, welcoming visitors from around the world with a presentation of Japan's culture of circularity.

The international terminal at Fukuoka Airport, which had been undergoing expansion and renovation, will reopen on March 28th.

The Osaka District Meteorological Observatory announced on March 27th that cherry blossoms have begun blooming in Osaka, marking an opening three days earlier than last year.