Train fans traveling between Tokyo and Nikko can now do so in style on Tobu Railway’s newest limited express train, the Spacia X, which debuted on July 15th, 2023. The new train has a variety of seating options and its own onboard café.
The bright, white Spacia X
Spacia X is a six-car train with a bright, white exterior and hexagonal windows reminiscent of traditional lattice designs. Inside are six seating options, which include sofa seats, lounge seats and private rooms as well as standard seating.
This is the latest and most luxurious in the Spacia series of trains, which run between Asakusa in Tokyo and destinations such as Nikko and Kinugawa Onsen in Tochigi Prefecture. The new train runs on 100% renewable energy and has an improved motor performance that reduces carbon emissions by 40%.
The Cockpit Lounge
In Car 1 you will find the Cockpit Lounge which has been modelled after the famous Nikko Kanaya Hotel − the oldest Western style resort hotel in Japan. Here sofa seating is available for groups of four, two, or for single travelers. The lounge also has a café, so you can enjoy drinks and snacks along the way.
Tobu Spacia X Premium Seats
Car 2 has premium seats arranged in rows of single and paired seats. Premium seats have adjustable headrests, electric-powered reclining and a back-shell structure so you can sit back without bothering the passenger behind you. and for neck support.
Spacia X Standard Seats
Cars 3, 4 and 5 have standard seating. Standard seats are all equipped with fold-out tables and electrical power outlets.
Spacia X Box Seats
There are also some box seats in Car 5. These consist of a pair of facing seats that are partitioned off from other seats.
A private compartment
In Car 6 there are some private compartments which have spacious u-shaped sofa seating and fold-away tables.
The Cockpit Suite
Also in Car 6 is the luxurious Cockpit Suite, a private room designed to resemble the interior of a private jet. Seats here can be moved around freely. With a wide view from the front and side windows, the Cockpit Suite can seat up to 7 people.
Goen Cafe
Goen Café in Car 1 has a variety of products sourced from Nikko on the menu, which include delicious snacks and sweets as well as sake, craft beer, craft coffee and soft drinks. Passengers in Car 1 will receive priority service at the café, while passengers in other cars can buy tickets to use it.
Why not try Nikko Craft Coffee with a Sake Lees Butter Sandwich Cookie?
In conjunction with the debut of the new train Tobu Asakusa Station and Tobu Nikko Station have both had some shiny new renovations.
The new décor at Platform 5 at Tobu Asakusa Station
At Tobu Asakusa Station, Platform 5, the departure point for Spacia X, has been renovated. And at Tobu Nikko Station the atrium outside the ticket gates and the station waiting room have both been renovated.
The renovated atrium at Tobu Nikko Station
Both areas are now decorated with wooden décor and stonework from Tochigi Prefecture.
The new waiting room at Tobu Nikko Station
For more details about the Spacia X, please visit the official website.
Article by Michael Lambe. Photos courtesy of Tobu Railway. All rights reserved.
