Japan’s Sunrise Express is the country’s last regularly scheduled overnight sleeper train. It combines two services that leave Tokyo together before separating at Okayama: the Sunrise Seto continues to Takamatsu, while the Sunrise Izumo travels to Izumoshi.
You can choose between open sleeping spaces and private sleeper cabins. This guide explains the Sunrise Express routes, journey times, prices, JR Pass coverage, accommodation options, and how to book your tickets.
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What is the Sunrise Express sleeper train like?
The Sunrise Express is designed for overnight travel rather than standard daytime seating. Passengers can reserve a Nobi Nobi seat, an open carpeted sleeping space with partial dividers, or choose from several private cabins for one or two people.
The train also has toilets, washbasins, small lounges, vending machines, and shower rooms. Power outlets are available in the private sleeper cabins.
How the Sunrise Express runs
The Sunrise Express consists of two overnight services: the Sunrise Seto and the Sunrise Izumo. The trains travel together between Tokyo and Okayama. At Okayama Station, they separate and continue to different destinations.
Sunrise Express routes
| Service |
Route |
|---|---|
| Sunrise Seto | Tokyo to Takamatsu via Okayama |
| Sunrise Izumo | Tokyo to Izumoshi via Okayama, Yonago, and Matsue |
On journeys toward Tokyo, the two trains join at Okayama before continuing east together. Stops vary depending on the route and direction, so check the latest timetable before traveling.
Sunrise Express prices and JR Pass coverage
The cost of the Sunrise Express depends on your route and accommodation type. A standard ticket usually includes the base fare, a limited express charge, and a sleeper charge.
The following sleeper charges apply to private cabins:
| Accommodation |
Sleeper charge |
|---|---|
| Solo | ¥6,600 |
| Single | ¥7,700 |
| Single Twin | ¥9,600 |
| Single Deluxe | ¥13,980 |
| Sunrise Twin | ¥7,700 per person |
An additional ¥5,500 is charged when adding a second bed to a Single Twin cabin. A Sunrise Twin requires fares and charges for two adults, even when occupied by one person.
Is the Sunrise Express covered by the JR Pass?
The Japan Rail Pass fully covers the base fare, limited express charge, and reservation for a Nobi Nobi seat. You don’t need to pay an additional sleeper charge.
For a private cabin, the JR Pass covers the base fare only. You must pay the limited express charge and the relevant sleeper charge separately. The final price varies by your route, cabin type, and travel date.
How to book Sunrise Express tickets
Sunrise Express tickets go on sale at 10:00 a.m. Japan Standard Time one month before the departure date. Private cabins and Nobi Nobi seats can sell out quickly, so book as soon as reservations open.
You can book your tickets in several ways:
- Online through JR-West: Reserve and pay through the JR-West Online Train Reservation service. You must collect your paper tickets from an eligible JR station before boarding.
- At a JR station: Buy tickets from a JR ticket office or compatible reserved-seat ticket machine in Japan.
- Through a booking service: International travelers can use Sunrise Express Tickets to request tickets and have them delivered in Japan or internationally. This is an independent service, so check its prices, delivery options, and booking conditions before purchasing.
Demand is especially high during weekends, public holidays, and peak travel periods. Booking early improves your chances but doesn’t guarantee your preferred cabin.
Sunrise Express cabins and seats
The Sunrise Express offers open sleeping spaces and private cabins for one or two passengers.
| Accommodation |
Capacity |
What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Nobi Nobi seat | 1 person | An open, carpeted sleeping space with partial dividers. It offers less privacy but is fully covered by the JR Pass. |
| Solo | 1 person | A compact private cabin with a bed. |
| Single | 1 person | A private cabin with more space than a Solo cabin. |
| Single Twin | 1 to 2 people | A single-person cabin that can accommodate a second passenger using an additional bed. |
| Sunrise Twin | 2 people | A private cabin with two beds. |
| Single Deluxe | 1 person | The most spacious private cabin available on the train. |
Private A and B sleeper cabins have power outlets. Other onboard facilities include toilets, washbasins, lounges, vending machines, luggage storage, and shower rooms.
Shower access is limited and requires a separate shower card, so availability is not guaranteed.
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Other night trains in Japan
The Sunrise Express is Japan’s only regularly scheduled overnight sleeper train. However, several luxury cruise trains offer multi-day journeys with private suites, meals, sightseeing stops, and onboard experiences.
- Seven Stars in Kyushu: A luxury sleeper train that travels around Kyushu. Depending on the season, passengers can choose from 2-day or 4-day itineraries combining train travel with local food, culture, and excursions.
- Train Suite Shiki-shima: JR East’s luxury cruise train offers seasonal multi-day journeys through eastern Japan. Trips begin at Ueno Station and include private suites, fine dining, and stops at selected destinations.
- Twilight Express Mizukaze: This JR West luxury train travels through western Japan, including destinations along the Sanyo and Sanin routes. Its itineraries include private accommodation, onboard dining, and sightseeing excursions.