In Japan, taking the train can offer much more than simply reaching your destination. Joyful Trains turn train travel into an experience you’ll never forget!
These are special themed trains with designs that can make travel more fun and exciting. Joyful Train interiors might feature tatami mats, art installations, or colourful anime and manga characters that bring the journey to life.
There are also historic and more luxurious trains operated as part of the Joyful Train concept.
Many offer regional delicacies, onboard activities, or routes chosen for their scenery.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the charm and personality of Japan and its culture.
Here are the top 10 Joyful Trains that you can take in 2025:
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Pokémon With You train
Since the release of the first Pokémon video game in Japan in 1996, and the anime series the following year, the Pokémon franchise has become popular with both children and adults the world over.
The Pokémon With You train has run since 2012 in the Tohoku region on the Ofunato Line. It was designed “to bring smiles to Tohoku children” since this was the region devastated by the earthquake and tsunami of 2011. Its two train cars are decorated inside and out with images of more than 100 pokémon, including favorites such as Pikachu and Charmander.
Note: Since July 2017 the Pokemon Train is again operating with a revamped new design. Routes will go from Ichinoseki to Kesennuma and back.
Inside the Communication Seat Car, each seat back features images of 1 to 2 pokémon, and no two seats are the same. Pokéballs are featured on the center aisle carpeting, and the curtains and other décor are also themed. The Playroom Car is decorated as a Pokémon-filled forest.
Activities for children on this car include a play tunnel, plush Sleepytime Snorlax pillow, picture block puzzles, and a bin full of pokéballs. Get your tickets for the Pokémon train and get ready to begin your own Pokémon adventure!
Seven Stars Kyushu train
Japan’s most luxurious railway adventure awaits aboard the Seven Stars in Kyushu. This deluxe sleeper train wraps offer you the best way to get to your destination overnight.
The Seven Stars train has fine woodwork, kumiko lattice screens, and porcelain fixtures crafted by Sakaida Kakiemon XIV. This was one of Japan’s most famous potters and ceramicists, and was given the title of National Living Treasure of Japan.
A dedicated dining car pairs seasonal gourmet meals with beautiful views of Kyushu’s landscapes. You’ll see hot springs, villages, and mountain vistas. With just ten cabins on board, every ride feels exclusive and deeply immersive.
You can also enjoy some atmospheric live music at the train’s Piano Lounge.
Shirakami Resort Train
The Resort Shirakami train, introduced in 2016, replaced the older KiHa 48 series and offers a delightful journey between Akita and Aomori along the JR Gonō Line. With its semi-open compartments and cozy seating, it’s designed for comfort and relaxation.
The train’s interior is a celebration of local craftsmanship, featuring wood from the regions it passes through. From Akita cedar to Aomori hiba, the natural materials create a warm and inviting atmosphere, making you feel connected to the great outdoors as you travel.
Foreign travelers will find plenty to enjoy on the Resort Shirakami. The train slows down at scenic spots, giving you ample time to snap photos of the stunning landscapes.
Onboard, you might catch a traditional shamisen performance or hear local storytelling in the Tsugaru dialect, adding a cultural touch to your journey.
For those who love a bit of fun, there’s even a basketball shooting challenge at Noshiro Station, where you can win special prizes.
The self-checkout sales counters offer snacks, beverages, and railway goods, making it easy to grab a treat or souvenir without the need for cash.
Whether you’re soaking in the views or enjoying the onboard entertainment, the Resort Shirakami offers a unique and memorable way to experience the beauty of northern Japan.
High Rail 1375 Train
The HIGH RAIL 1375 made its debut in July 2017. It offers a magical journey along the JR Koumi Line between Komoro and Kobuchizawa. Dubbed “the train closest to the sky,” it reaches an impressive elevation of 1,375 meters.
With large windows to view the Yatsugatake Mountains, this train is perfect for nature lovers. The interior features seasonal constellations, adding a celestial vibe to your trip.
One of the highlights is the stargazing session at Nobeyama Station, where a guide will help you explore the night sky.
Car 2 houses a mini-astronomy library and a domed planetarium, while Car 1 offers various seating options, all designed to maximize your view of the stunning scenery. You can even pre-order a special lunch box to enjoy during your ride.
Don’t forget to check out the sales counter for limited-edition items and snacks, making your journey even more special!
B.B.Base Train
The B.B.BASE train was introduced in January 2018 and is a cyclist’s dream. Running from Tokyo’s JR Ryogoku Station to the Boso Peninsula, it lets you bring your bike onboard without any hassle. Just mount your bicycle on the onboard racks and you’re ready to go.
Designed for cyclists, the B.B.BASE train features slip-resistant flooring and spacious interiors. Each car has outlets to keep your devices charged during your journey.
No bike? No problem! Rent a sports bike at the B.B.BASE Bicycle Station at Ryogoku Station. The staff will guide you, making it easy for beginners.
The Boso Peninsula is a cyclist’s paradise with its mild climate, scenic routes, and charming towns. Check out local spots like the sumo-themed Ryogoku Edo NOREN food hall, or enjoy a coffee at Beck’s Coffee Shop.
Hop on the B.B.BASE train and explore the Boso Peninsula, creating unforgettable memories along the way.
SL Gunma
Take a nostalgic thrill ride onboard SL Gunma. This is an impressive steam-hauled Joyful Train that’s perfect for vintage train lovers. It uses locomotives D51 498 (“Degoichi”) and C61 20 (“Shirokuichi”) to haul refurbished passenger cars.
The interiors have retro-style wooden finishes, and the rolling stock includes blue 12-series cars equipped with modern facilities.
The service runs on routes in Gunma Prefecture, offering a heritage railway experience with scheduled departures on selected dates.Your kids will also love this train ride, as they’ll have the opportunity to wear conductor outfits and make live announcements.
An onboard lounge serves snacks, card games, and train-themed ekiben (boxed lunches). This charming experience brings classic steam romance right into the 21st century.
KAIRI
If you want to see some of Japan’s most beautiful coastal routes, the KAIRI train is perfect for your trip. This is a Joyful Train service operated by JR East that runs between Niigata and Shonai. Its name combines the characters for “sea” and “village,” reflecting the coastal scenery along its route.
One car functions as a dining space, offering seasonal dishes prepared by Niigata and Shonai restaurants. Another car serves as a shop for local products and as a venue for events.
The train makes a special stop at Kuwagawa Station, where you can purchase a sea-themed soft-serve ice cream available only at that location.
Special Shinaknsen
In addition to the Joyful Trains, you can also enjoy some of Japan’s most famous pop culture icons on the Special Shinkansen.
These are high speed trains decorated in the style of popular characters, including Hello Kitty and One Piece.
Hello Kitty Shinkansen
JR West debuted a Hello Kitty bullet train service on the Sanyo Shinkansen line on June 30th, 2018. For now, it’s not known how long it will run, but it has so far proved to be incredibly popular!
The train offers themed cars such as the HELLO! PLAZA exhibition space and the KAWAII! ROOM photo area.
It’s also decorated with Hello Kitty’s iconic red ribbon, as a way to represent the strengthening of the ties between the Shinkansen services and the western part of the country. The best part? It’s included in your JR Pass!
One Piece Shinkansen
The One Piece Shinkansen is a special livery service on the Sanyo Shinkansen, that began operating in 2025. It celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Sanyo Shinkansen and is themed after the One Piece manga and anime series.
The train features exterior artwork of characters such as Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Crew. You’ll also get to enjoy the themed interior elements and announcements. It operates on select services between Shin-Osaka and Hakata.
Disney Shinkansen Wonderful Dreams
The Disney Shinkansen Wonderful Dreams is a special service on the Tokaido Shinkansen, that began operation from February 2025.
It’s themed around the Fantasy Springs expansion at Tokyo DisneySea, featuring characters and scenes from Frozen, Tangled, and Peter Pan on the exterior.
Interior elements include themed headrest covers, decorative details, and background music related to the featured films. It is the first time a full-length design has been applied to a Tokaido Shinkansen train.