Luxury trains are growing in popularity, as we are seeing them emerge in different corners of the globe. Our team at Cevalon were delighted at the news that Japan Railways Kyushu (JR Kyushu) has recently launched their latest luxury electric train, called the 36+3, offering travellers and tourists a unique opportunity to see the best of what the island of Kyushu has to offer in exquisite fashion.
The name 36+3, has nothing to do with the dimensions of the train. It was derived from Kyushu being the 36th largest island in the world, with the number 3 signifying the coming together of JR Kyushu, Kyushu locals and customers.
Kyushu is home to Mount Aso – the country’s largest active volcano – as well as several hot springs and azalea flowers that bloom in spring. The 36+3 travels along 5 routes that circle the perimeter of Kyushu, highlighting its well renowned natural beauty and stunning views.
Depending on the day of the week, 36+3 travels one of its five Kyushu routes. On Thursdays, the train departs from Hakata (in the north of the island) and travels down the west coast, offering East China Sea views along the way.
On Fridays, it runs along the south of Kyushu from Kagoshima-Chuo to Miyazaki Airport, stopping off at Osumi Okaware Station for lunch. From here, passengers can take in views of Kinko Bay and the Sakurajima volcano.
Saturdays see 36+3 travel along the island’s eastern coast to Beppu, stopping at Saiki City, known for its black tea and chestnut jam. On Sundays, the train leaves Beppu and heads along Kyushu’s northern coastline, with views of Beppu Bay on one side, and the mountains of the Oita Prefecture on the other.
On Mondays, 36+3 takes transport passengers from Hakata station to the city of Nagasaki, stopping off at a historic town celebrated for its sake.
Aside from the perfectly planned out routes of the 36+3, passengers will undoubtedly marvel at the interior beauty of this electric train, which combines modern Western, and classic Japanese features, such as shoji screen doors and okawa kumiko latticework – which comes from Kyushu’s Fukuoka prefecture.
The train’s first two cabins have 13 private compartments with couches and tables for up to six people. The third cabin has drinks and snacks served at the bar, including sake and local cuisine, such as Wagyu beef and seafood dishes. The fourth cabin has a lounge decorated with an arched lattice work ceiling and tables for dining. Finally, cabins five and six have regular seating combined with tatami mat floors crafted from the island’s rush grass (passengers must remove their shoes before entering).
Ticket prices vary depending on the route travelled, but with meals, they range from 12,000 yen (US$116) to 30,000 yen (US$290). All tickets must be reserved in advance.
At Cevalon, we are happy to share our knowledge about these beautiful experiences with our clients, and make it our business to stay two-steps ahead when there are unique luxury experiences.
For those of you that are looking to explore Kyushu through the all new 36+3 electric train, let us arrange and manage your flight and accommodation bookings, private charters, airport transfers, car hire and everything that lets you take your mind off the road and so you can prepare for arriving at your destination, relaxed and ready.
Our unsurpassed global know-how ensures your destination is perfect. Be that a private island to be away from it all, or the most efficient location for a business liaison with our Private Concierge Service London.
Cevalon can help you find the destination that will excite and delight you and your family, and provide an itinerary that gives you the opportunity to create unforgettable vacation memories with our Private Family Office Services. Contact us today…
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