Two spring tours in Japan’s central Tokaido region have been announced for the luxury cruise train, the Royal Express.
The Royal Express Tokaido-Fuji Cruise Train
Jointly run by the railway companies Tokyu Corporation and JR Central, the Royal Express Tokaido-Fuji Cruise Train will run two distinct itineraries both of which include scenic views of Mount Fuji. These unique travel experiences will include a brand-new tour to Lake Biwa and a tour that runs to key cultural sites in Gifu and Shizuoka prefectures. Both tours begin and end in Yokohama, last for 4 days and 3 nights, and include high-end accommodation in the plans.
A map showing the route between Yokohama and Lake Biwa
The “Sparkling Blue Lake Biwa” trip is a brand-new course that includes a mini cruise on a private sightseeing boat around Japan’s largest and most beautiful lake, with an on-board live violin performance. This tour will also include a guided tour of the Sekigahara Battlefield in Gifu prefecture. Here in the year 1600 a decisive battle was fought that marked a turning point in Japanese history, and the beginning of the Tokugawa Shogunate that would rule Japan for another two and half centuries.
The Royal Express passing Mount Fuji
The second travel experience plan is the Mino and Gifu route that runs through historic post towns along the old Tokaido highway taking in handicraft experiences in Shizuoka, a luxury stay beside Lake Hamana, and visits to some of the best-preserved traditional architecture in Japan.
While on either trip, passengers can view an on-board exhibition of Utagawa Hiroshige’s “Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido” woodblock prints and enjoy fine regional cuisine served by the on-board chefs.
The Royal Express car interior
Tickets will cost between 890,000 yen to 1,010,000 yen per person (tax included) depending on the precise course chosen.
The departure dates for the Lake Biwa tour are April 10th, 17th, and 24th and May 29th. More details and booking information can be found on the official tour page.
The departure dates for the Mino-Gifu tour are April 3rd and May 8th with more details on the official tour page.
Article by Michael Lambe. Images courtesy of The Royal Express. All rights reserved.
