Japan's has launched a luxury 'cruise train' with glass ceilings and suites that cost up to £7,200

pulse

May 5, 2017 11:54 AM

It has only 10 coaches and can fit a maximum of 34 passengers.

The Shiki-Shima has only 10 carriages and holds only 34 passengers.

Japan's new Shiki-Shima train could just be the most luxurious in the world.

The Shiki-Shima, which means "island of four seasons" in a nod to the country, is the latest project from East Japan Railway Company. It has only 10 coaches and can fit a maximum of 34 passengers.

Called a "cruise train," all of the rooms on board are suites. The train also boasts a lounge, two observatory cars made completely of glass, and a fine dining car.

The suites offer "a journey full of experiences and discoveries like no other you've experienced before," according to the website.

The basic and "deluxe" suites have beds, a shower, and a lavatory. The basic costs £5,164 for a solo traveller on a two-night/three-day trip, while the deluxe is £6,713.

Meanwhile, the "Shiki-Shima" two-floor maisonette suite, which will set a solo traveller back £7,230, has traditional tatami mats and a specially-made cypress bath.

The lounge car is designed like "a quiet forest."

The two observation cars, found at either end of the train, offer "front-row seats to this natural extravaganza" with glass walls and ceilings.

The dining car, which serves fine cuisine from around Eastern Japan, boasts a Michelin star, according to The Independent. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served on the train by uniformed butlers, who can also act as personal concierges.

There are a few options available, but the longest trip is the two-night and three-day tour starting from Tokyo's Ueno station.

The journey stops in the likes of Shiroishi, Aomori, Hirosaki, Ichinoseki, and Naruko-onsen for sightseeing tours — and it even features a trip to a hot spring.

It includes two breakfasts, three lunches, and two dinners.

Prospective passengers must apply online and will be chosen from a lottery, although applications for the season from December 2017 to March 2018 are already closed due to demand.

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