{"id":911,"date":"2017-06-14T15:28:37","date_gmt":"2017-06-14T13:28:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/?p=911"},"modified":"2025-08-28T08:39:37","modified_gmt":"2025-08-28T06:39:37","slug":"joyful-character-trains","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/joyful-character-trains","title":{"rendered":"The 10 best Japan joyful and character trains"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>In Japan, taking the train can offer much more than simply reaching your destination. <strong>Joyful Trains<\/strong> turn train travel into an experience you\u2019ll never forget!<\/p>\n<p>These are special themed trains with designs that can <strong>make travel more fun and exciting<\/strong>. Joyful Train interiors might feature tatami mats, art installations, or colourful anime and manga characters that bring the journey to life.<\/p>\n<p><!--more--><\/p>\n<p>There are also historic and more luxurious trains operated as part of the Joyful Train concept.<\/p>\n<p>Many offer regional delicacies, onboard activities, or routes chosen for their scenery.<\/p>\n<p>Get ready to <strong>immerse yourself in the charm and personality of Japan<\/strong> and its culture.<\/p>\n<p>Here are the top 10 Joyful Trains that you can take in 2025:<\/p>\n<div id=\"toc_container\" class=\"toc_white no_bullets\"><p class=\"toc_title\">Table of Contents<\/p><ul class=\"toc_list\"><li><a href=\"#Pokemon_With_You_train\"><span class=\"toc_number toc_depth_1\">1<\/span> Pok\u00e9mon With You train<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Seven_Stars_Kyushu_train\"><span class=\"toc_number toc_depth_1\">2<\/span> Seven Stars Kyushu train<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Shirakami_Resort_Train\"><span class=\"toc_number toc_depth_1\">3<\/span> Shirakami Resort Train<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#High_Rail_1375_Train\"><span class=\"toc_number toc_depth_1\">4<\/span> High Rail 1375 Train<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#BBBase_Train\"><span class=\"toc_number toc_depth_1\">5<\/span> B.B.Base Train<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#SL_Gunma\"><span class=\"toc_number toc_depth_1\">6<\/span> SL Gunma<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#KAIRI\"><span class=\"toc_number toc_depth_1\">7<\/span> KAIRI<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Special_Shinaknsen\"><span class=\"toc_number toc_depth_1\">8<\/span> Special Shinaknsen<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#Hello_Kitty_Shinkansen\"><span class=\"toc_number toc_depth_2\">8.1<\/span> Hello Kitty Shinkansen<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#One_Piece_Shinkansen\"><span class=\"toc_number toc_depth_2\">8.2<\/span> One Piece Shinkansen<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Disney_Shinkansen_Wonderful_Dreams\"><span class=\"toc_number toc_depth_2\">8.3<\/span> Disney Shinkansen Wonderful Dreams<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n<h2><span id=\"Pokemon_With_You_train\">Pok\u00e9mon With You train<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_919\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-919\" style=\"width: 800px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\"  decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-919 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/pokemon-train-e1486127358849.jpg\" alt=\"Pok\u00e9mon with you train has gained popularity with the recent Pok\u00e9mon Go mobile game\" width=\"800\" height=\"455\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-919\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Pok\u00e9mon with you train has gained popularity with the recent Pok\u00e9mon Go mobile game<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Since the release of the first Pok\u00e9mon video game in Japan in 1996, and the anime series the following year, the <strong>Pok\u00e9mon franchise<\/strong> has become popular with both children and adults the world over.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/pokemon-with-you-train\">Pok\u00e9mon With You train<\/a> has run since 2012 in the <strong>Tohoku region<\/strong> on the <strong>Ofunato Line.<\/strong> It was designed &#8220;to bring smiles to Tohoku children&#8221; since this was the region devastated by the earthquake and <strong>tsunami of 2011<\/strong>. Its two train cars are decorated inside and out with <strong>images of more than 100 pok\u00e9mon<\/strong>, including favorites such as Pikachu and Charmander.<\/p>\n<p class=\"note\"><strong>Note<\/strong>:\u00a0Since July 2017 the Pokemon Train is again operating with a revamped new design. Routes will go<strong> from Ichinoseki to Kesennuma<\/strong> and back.<\/p>\n<p>Inside the Communication Seat Car, each seat back features images of 1 to 2 pok\u00e9mon, and <strong>no two seats are the same<\/strong>. Pok\u00e9balls are featured on the center aisle carpeting, and the curtains and other d\u00e9cor are also themed. The <strong>Playroom Car<\/strong> is decorated as a Pok\u00e9mon-filled forest.<\/p>\n<p>Activities for children on this car include a play tunnel, plush Sleepytime Snorlax pillow, picture block puzzles, and a bin full of pok\u00e9balls.\u00a0 Get your tickets for the Pok\u00e9mon train and get ready to begin your own Pok\u00e9mon adventure!<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"Seven_Stars_Kyushu_train\">Seven Stars Kyushu train<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_765\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-765\" style=\"width: 800px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\"  decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-765 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/seven-stars-kyushu-1024x597.jpg\" alt=\"Seven Stars Kyushu luxury train\" width=\"800\" height=\"466\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-765\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Seven Stars Kyushu<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Japan\u2019s most luxurious railway <strong>adventure awaits aboard the Seven Stars <\/strong>in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/regions-of-japan\/kyushu\">Kyushu<\/a>. This deluxe sleeper train wraps offer you the best way to get to your destination overnight.<\/p>\n<p>The Seven Stars train has fine woodwork, kumiko lattice screens, and porcelain fixtures crafted by Sakaida Kakiemon XIV. This was one of Japan\u2019s most famous potters and ceramicists, and was given the title of <strong>National Living Treasure of Japan<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>A dedicated dining car pairs seasonal gourmet meals with <strong>beautiful views of Kyushu\u2019s landscapes<\/strong>. You\u2019ll see hot springs, villages, and mountain vistas. With just ten cabins on board, every ride feels exclusive and deeply immersive.<\/p>\n<p>You can also enjoy some atmospheric live music at the train\u2019s Piano Lounge.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"Shirakami_Resort_Train\"><strong>Shirakami Resort Train<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_21678\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21678\" style=\"width: 800px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\"  decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"size-large wp-image-21678\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/shirakami-resort-train-800x450.webp\" alt=\"Shirakami Resort Train\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/shirakami-resort-train-800x450.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/shirakami-resort-train-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/shirakami-resort-train-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/shirakami-resort-train.webp 888w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-21678\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Shirakami Resort Train &#8211; Image: JR East<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The Resort Shirakami train, <strong>introduced in 2016<\/strong>, replaced the older KiHa 48 series and offers a delightful journey between Akita and Aomori along the JR Gon\u014d Line. With its <strong>semi-open compartments and cozy seating<\/strong>, it\u2019s designed for comfort and relaxation.<\/p>\n<p>The train\u2019s interior is a celebration of local craftsmanship, featuring <strong>wood from the regions it passes through<\/strong>. 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.<\/p>\n<p>Foreign travelers will find plenty to enjoy on the Resort Shirakami. The train <strong>slows down at scenic spots<\/strong>, giving you ample time to snap photos of the stunning landscapes.<\/p>\n<p>Onboard, you might catch a<strong> traditional shamisen performance or hear local storytelling<\/strong> in the Tsugaru dialect, adding a cultural touch to your journey.<\/p>\n<p>For those who love a bit of fun, there\u2019s even a <strong>basketball shooting challenge at Noshiro Station<\/strong>, where you can win special prizes.<\/p>\n<p>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.<\/p>\n<p>Whether you\u2019re 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.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"High_Rail_1375_Train\"><strong>High Rail 1375 Train<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>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 &#8220;<strong>the train closest to the sky<\/strong>,&#8221; it reaches an impressive elevation of 1,375 meters.<\/p>\n<p>With large windows to view the <strong>Yatsugatake Mountains<\/strong>, this train is perfect for nature lovers. The interior features seasonal constellations, adding a celestial vibe to your trip.<\/p>\n<p>One of the highlights is the <strong>stargazing session at Nobeyama Station<\/strong>, where a guide will help you explore the night sky.<\/p>\n<p>Car 2 houses a <strong>mini-astronomy library and a domed planetarium<\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n<p>Don&#8217;t forget to check out the sales counter for <strong>limited-edition items<\/strong> and snacks, making your journey even more special!<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"BBBase_Train\"><strong>B.B.Base Train<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_21673\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21673\" style=\"width: 800px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\"  decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-21673 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/b-b-b-train-jr-east-800x450.webp\" alt=\"B.B.BASE train JR East\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/b-b-b-train-jr-east-800x450.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/b-b-b-train-jr-east-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/b-b-b-train-jr-east-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/b-b-b-train-jr-east.webp 888w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-21673\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">B.B.BASE train &#8211; Image: JR East<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The B.B.BASE train was introduced in January 2018 and is a cyclist\u2019s dream. Running from Tokyo\u2019s JR Ryogoku Station to the Boso Peninsula, it lets you <strong>bring your bike onboard<\/strong> without any hassle. Just mount your bicycle on the onboard racks and you&#8217;re ready to go.<\/p>\n<p>Designed for cyclists, the B.B.BASE train features <strong>slip-resistant flooring and spacious interiors<\/strong>. Each car has outlets to keep your devices charged during your journey.<\/p>\n<p>No bike? No problem! <strong>Rent a sports bike<\/strong> at the B.B.BASE Bicycle Station at Ryogoku Station. The staff will guide you, making it easy for beginners.<\/p>\n<p>The Boso Peninsula is <strong>a cyclist&#8217;s paradise<\/strong> 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&#8217;s Coffee Shop.<\/p>\n<p>Hop on the B.B.BASE train and explore the Boso Peninsula, creating <strong>unforgettable memories<\/strong> along the way.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"SL_Gunma\"><strong>SL Gunma<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_21668\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21668\" style=\"width: 800px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\"  decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-21668 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/sl-gunma-train-800x416.webp\" alt=\"SL Gunma Train\" width=\"800\" height=\"416\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/sl-gunma-train-800x416.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/sl-gunma-train-300x156.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/sl-gunma-train-768x399.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/sl-gunma-train-1200x624.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/sl-gunma-train.webp 1250w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-21668\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">SL Gunma Train &#8211; Image: JR East<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Take a nostalgic thrill ride onboard <strong>SL Gunma<\/strong>. This is an impressive <strong>steam-hauled Joyful Train<\/strong> that\u2019s perfect for vintage train lovers. It uses locomotives D51 498 (\u201cDegoichi\u201d) and C61 20 (\u201cShirokuichi\u201d) to haul refurbished passenger cars.<\/p>\n<p>The interiors have retro-style wooden finishes, and the rolling stock includes blue 12-series cars equipped with modern facilities.<\/p>\n<p>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\u2019ll have the <strong>opportunity to wear conductor outfits<\/strong> and make live announcements.<\/p>\n<p>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.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"KAIRI\"><strong>KAIRI<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_21663\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21663\" style=\"width: 800px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\"  decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-21663 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/kairi-train-jr-east-800x416.webp\" alt=\"KAIRI train by JR East\" width=\"800\" height=\"416\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/kairi-train-jr-east-800x416.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/kairi-train-jr-east-300x156.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/kairi-train-jr-east-768x399.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/kairi-train-jr-east-1200x624.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/kairi-train-jr-east.webp 1250w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-21663\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">KAIRI train by JR East &#8211; Image: JR East<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><strong>If you want to see some of Japan\u2019s most beautiful coastal routes, the KAIRI<\/strong> train is perfect for your trip. This is a Joyful Train service operated by JR East that runs between <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/niigata-travel-guide\">Niigata<\/a> and Shonai. Its name combines the characters for \u201csea\u201d and \u201cvillage,\u201d reflecting the coastal scenery along its route.<\/p>\n<p>One car functions as a dining space, <strong>offering seasonal dishes<\/strong> prepared by Niigata and Shonai restaurants. Another car serves as a shop for local products and as a venue for events.<\/p>\n<p>The train makes a special stop at Kuwagawa Station, where you can purchase a <strong>sea-themed soft-serve ice cream<\/strong> available only at that location.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"Special_Shinaknsen\"><strong>Special Shinaknsen<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>In addition to the Joyful Trains, you can also enjoy some of <strong>Japan\u2019s most famous pop culture icons<\/strong> on the Special Shinkansen.<\/p>\n<p>These are high speed trains decorated in the style of popular characters, including Hello Kitty and One Piece.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Hello_Kitty_Shinkansen\"><strong>Hello Kitty Shinkansen<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<figure id=\"attachment_20511\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20511\" style=\"width: 800px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\"  decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"size-large wp-image-20511\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/hello-kitty-shinkansen-800x534.jpg\" alt=\"Hello Kitty Shinkansen\" width=\"800\" height=\"534\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/hello-kitty-shinkansen-800x534.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/hello-kitty-shinkansen-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/hello-kitty-shinkansen-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/hello-kitty-shinkansen.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-20511\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Hello Kitty Shinkansen<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>JR West debuted a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/hello-kitty-shinkansen\">Hello Kitty bullet train service<\/a><strong> on the Sanyo Shinkansen <\/strong>line on June 30th, 2018. For now, it&#8217;s not known how long it will run, but it has so far proved to be incredibly popular!<\/p>\n<p>The train offers themed cars such as the HELLO! PLAZA exhibition space and the KAWAII! ROOM photo area.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s also <strong>decorated with<\/strong> <strong>Hello Kitty\u2019s iconic red ribbon<\/strong>, 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\u2019s included in your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/\"><strong>JR Pass<\/strong><\/a><strong>!<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">\n            <a class=\"fasc-button banner-button-shortcode fasc-size-large fasc-type-flat fasc-rounded-medium ico-fa fasc-ico-after fa-chevron-circle-right fasc-style-bold\" href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/the-japan-rail-pass\">\n                Buy your JR Pass\n            <\/a>\n        <\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"One_Piece_Shinkansen\"><strong>One Piece Shinkansen<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\"  decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-20280 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/one-piece-shinkansen-1-800x379.jpg\" alt=\"one piece shinkansen\" width=\"800\" height=\"379\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/one-piece-shinkansen-1-800x379.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/one-piece-shinkansen-1-300x142.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/one-piece-shinkansen-1-768x364.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/one-piece-shinkansen-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/one-piece-shinkansen\">One Piece Shinkansen<\/a> is a special livery service on the Sanyo Shinkansen, that began operating in 2025. It celebrates the <strong>50th anniversary of the Sanyo Shinkansen<\/strong> and is themed after the <em>One Piece<\/em> manga and anime series.<\/p>\n<p>The train features exterior artwork of characters such as <strong>Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Crew<\/strong>. You\u2019ll also get to enjoy the themed interior elements and announcements. It operates on select services between Shin-Osaka and Hakata.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Disney_Shinkansen_Wonderful_Dreams\"><strong>Disney Shinkansen Wonderful Dreams<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\"  decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-20646\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/wonderful-dreams-disney-shinkansen-800x390.jpg\" alt=\"Wonderful dreams - Disney Shinkansen\" width=\"800\" height=\"390\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/wonderful-dreams-disney-shinkansen-800x390.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/wonderful-dreams-disney-shinkansen-300x146.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/wonderful-dreams-disney-shinkansen-768x374.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/wonderful-dreams-disney-shinkansen-1536x749.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/wonderful-dreams-disney-shinkansen-1200x585.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/wonderful-dreams-disney-shinkansen.jpg 1674w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/disney-shinkansen-wonderful-dreams\">Disney Shinkansen Wonderful Dreams<\/a> is a special service on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/tokaido-shinkansen-jr-pass\">Tokaido Shinkansen<\/a>, that began operation from February 2025.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s themed around the Fantasy Springs expansion at Tokyo DisneySea, featuring <strong>characters and scenes from <\/strong><strong><em>Frozen<\/em><\/strong><strong>, <\/strong><strong><em>Tangled<\/em><\/strong><strong>, and <\/strong><strong><em>Peter Pan<\/em><\/strong> on the exterior.<\/p>\n<p>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.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In Japan, taking the train can offer much more than simply reaching your destination. Joyful Trains turn train travel into an experience you\u2019ll 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.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":924,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[3],"tags":[],"acf":{"related_tours":{"tour_number":false},"pageresume":"Riding trains in Japan is no longer just about getting from place to place. A ride on Japan Rail\u2019s Joyful Trains \u2013 with fun and exciting themed rail cars - is a destination in itself.","bread_1":false,"bread_2":false,"bread_3":false,"bread_4":false,"bread_5":false,"bread_6":false,"bread_7":false,"bread_last":false,"custom_guide":"","shortcodes":false},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v20.10 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>The 10 Best Japan Joyful and Character Trains - Japan Rail Pass<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Thematic trains run all over Japan: unique experiences many times related to anime, manga and videogames characters. Catch &#039;em all with your JR Pass!\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/911\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"The 10 Best Japan Joyful and Character Trains - Japan Rail Pass\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Thematic trains run all over Japan: unique experiences many times related to anime, manga and videogames characters. 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