Train travel is a convenient way to experience some of Japan’s most stunning landscapes, and this is the ideal itinerary for fans of sake.
East Japan Railway Company’s Shu*Kura train is a three-hour sightseeing route through Niigata prefecture, a destination well known for its sake production thanks to its ideal climate (nicknamed “snow country“), its rice production, and water quality.
Courtesy of JR East
The train travels along the region’s coast, up through its mountain landscapes, with the scenery outside changing with the seasons, from beautiful blooms in spring and summer to a light touch of foliage in the fall and a soft blanket of snow all winter long.
Along the way, sake tastings are paired with local treats and live music performances as a feast for all the senses. Sake makers will even educate guests on board. However, no two trips will ever be alike. According to Japan Rail Club, the participating breweries that provide samples for sake flights and tastings change depending on the day and typically offer a variety of sakes to sample.
The East Japan Railway Company has converted a few very special cars just for this ride. JRPass details that the train consists of three rail cars with different seating arrangements. In car one, guests will find box seats so families can sit together to enjoy both the drinks and the views outside the picture window. Also in car one, guests can sit together in observation pair seats, which all face the same direction to drink in the stellar views.
In car two, travelers can stretch their legs and hang out in the event room, which comes with standing tables. This, the rail company says, is where travelers can also find live music and order a few local snacks from the bar. Finally, in car three, guests will find both reclining and sofa-style seats, so everyone can kick back and unwind for the end of the journey.
The train begins at Joetsu Myoko and makes its way to Tōkamachi, Echigo Yuzawa, and Niigata city (the routes rotate weekly). Guests can come aboard the one-way journey on weekends from March through September. Reservations are required.
