The Twilight Express Mizukaze, regarded as one of the most luxurious sleeper trains in the world, offers an unparalleled travel experience through Japan’s scenic landscapes. Launched by JR West in 2017, this opulent train journey combines high-end amenities with an immersive cultural experience, capturing the essence of Japan’s beauty.
Travelers aboard the Mizukaze can expect to indulge in a range of lavish accommodations, with only 34 guests allowed on each journey. The train features six sleeping cars, each designed to elevate comfort, from classic rooms to twin and single accommodations, culminating in a grand suite that occupies an entire carriage. This suite boasts a bedroom, lounge, marble bathroom, and a private balcony, reflecting the train’s ambition to serve as a five-star hotel on wheels.
In terms of monetary value, the train is estimated to be worth around ¥3 billion (approximately £15 million). The experience aims to allow passengers to “discover the allure of beautiful Japan from the comfort of a car with the superior quality of a hotel.”
Gastronomic Delights and Unique Design
One of the standout features of the Mizukaze is its Michelin-star dining cart. Rather than standard fare found on typical trains, guests enjoy meals prepared by chefs from a three-Michelin-star restaurant in Osaka. The thoughtfully crafted menu highlights local delicacies sourced from southern Japan, with offerings categorized into three sections: earth, sea, and land.
A recent traveler, known as Trek Trendy, shared his experience on social media, praising the culinary journey and expressing amazement at trying puffer fish for the first time. He described the dining experience as “some of the best” he had ever encountered, illustrating the unique blend of luxury and adventure that the Mizukaze provides.
The train’s design is a striking combination of art deco elegance and modern luxury, a style the operators refer to as “nostalgic modern.” Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a steampunk science fiction film, creating an enchanting atmosphere for passengers. In addition to the dining car, the Mizukaze includes a bar and two glass observation cars, offering breathtaking views as the train traverses Japan’s picturesque mountains.
Access and Pricing
Despite the allure of this luxurious journey, securing a ticket to ride the Mizukaze is not straightforward. Tickets are available through a lottery system, and prices can be steep. A night in the royal twin room costs around £2,000, while prices for the more luxurious suites can exceed £33,000 for an entire trip, as experienced by Trek Trendy.
The exclusivity of the Mizukaze, combined with its luxurious offerings, makes it a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience for those fortunate enough to secure a ticket. As the train continues to weave through Japan’s historical and scenic routes, it elevates the concept of train travel to an art form, appealing to those who seek both adventure and sophistication on their journeys.
