Train Cruise

Synopsis

Criss-cross Japan by rail. Enjoy an amazing diversity of nature and scenery across the four seasons, exploring both well-known and hidden Japan.

First Air Date: 2013-05-25

Last Air Date: 2025-08-09

Number of Seasons: 13

Number of Episodes: 64

Networks: NHK WORLD-JAPAN

Season 1 (2013) - (2 Episodes)

Season 2 (2014) - (7 Episodes)

Season 3 (2015) - (4 Episodes)

Season 4 (2016) - (3 Episodes)

Season 5 (2017) - (4 Episodes)

Season 6 (2018) - (9 Episodes)

Season 7 (2019) - (6 Episodes)

Season 8 (2020) - (3 Episodes)

Season 9 (2021) - (4 Episodes)

Season 10 (2022) - (4 Episodes)

Season 11 (2023) - (8 Episodes)

Season 12 (2024) - (5 Episodes)

Season 13 (2025) - (6 Episodes)

No overview available for this season.

Ep. 1: A Century-Old Railway in Kyushu (2013-05-25)

Canadian, Nick Szasz, takes us train cruising, the best way to travel, on the Hisatsu Line in Kyushu that connects Kumamoto to Kagoshima. Known as the Treasury of Railway Heritage, this century-old line has many historic stations and bridges, and is a popular destination for rail enthusiasts. Nick travels along the Kuma River on the Steam Locomotive Hitoyoshi; transfers to the Isaburo Shinpei, which climbs slopes using a loop and a switchback; and boards Hayato no Kaze, a limited express to arrive at Sakurajima. On the way he tastes the local ekiben lunch boxes, and experiences the magnificent natural landscape.
Ep. 2: Journey to Highland Hot Spring Resorts (2013-11-16)

Climb aboard the limited express that runs between Hakata and two of Japan's most popular hot spring resorts, Yufuin and Beppu. The train slows down along scenic spots to let passengers enjoy the beautiful landscape through oversize windows. Discover the local specialties and the charms of highland hot springs.