36+3 Express 787 luxury train in Kyushu

The 36+3 luxury train is a new daytime service inaugurated in October 2020. The jet-black-and-gold-trim trains are refurbished Express 787 series models that JR Kyushu has remodeled to the highest standard of luxurious comfort. They operate on 5 routes around Japan’s southernmost main island, Kyushu.

The meaning of 36+3 is derived from the fact that Kyushu is the 36th largest island in the world, combined with the 3 elements of JR Kyushu, locals, and customers coming together on the new service. Additionally, the number 39 is written as “san-kyu” in Japanese, which is also similar to how “thanks” is pronounced in the language.

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Tashirojima: Cat Island travel guide

An idyllic getaway off the east coast of Japan, Tashirojima Island is perfect for visitors looking for a unique destination that is not overrun with tourists. This rural paradise is steeped in tradition, from its small fishing villages to its shrines to the cats that watch over the island and its people.

Cats are probably the most famous thing about Tashirojima — there are more feline residents here than humans! This has given it the nickname “Cat Island”. These furry inhabitants are often more than happy to approach visitors. They might even pose for a photo with you!

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Kabuki in Japan: What it is and how to watch it

If you’re planning to visit Japan and are eager to learn about its vast cultural heritage, then you should definitely include at least one Kabuki performance on your travel itinerary. The traditional dance-drama is one of the three major classical Japanese theaters, alongside noh and bunraku.

This complete guide can help you to understand the cultural meaning and significance of Kabuki, where to see a performance, what to expect from a show, and how to book tickets.

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Yamagata City and Prefecture travel guide

The city of Yamagata, capital of the eponymous Yamagata Prefecture, is one of Japan’s premier winter destinations. Surrounded by snowy mountains and natural beauty, Yamagata city is the perfect base to visit the ski slopes, hot springs, national parks, and historic monuments that fill the region.

Located in the north of Honshu (the largest of the islands that make up Japan), Yamagata forms part of the Tōhoku region. It is known for being a hub of winter sports centered around Mount Zao. It is also home to one of the National Treasures of Japan: the Five-storey Gojuto Pagoda of Mount Haguro.

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Akita City and Prefecture travel guide

Akita prefecture and its capital, Akita City, is located in the Tohoku Region in the north of Japan’s largest island, Honshu. Akita translates to ‘autumn rice paddy’ in Japanese, and accordingly the prefecture is well-known for its extensive rice farming. It is also famous for its sake breweries and for supposedly being the origin of the Akita dog breed.

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