Train lines to admire cherry blossoms

Stunning views from a window

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The Most Scenic Sakura Train Rides in Japan

Eki-ceptional views of cherry blossom trees

Slow and relaxing, train journey is one of the best ways of getting around Japan if you have the time to spare. If you’re planning your trip for cherry blossom season, which goes from mid-March to mid-April, some of the most breathtaking views in Japan can be enjoyed from behind a train window. Here we take a look at our top 5 Japan’s most scenic train journeys to enjoy sakura.

Tsugaru line, Aomori

The Tsugaru line runs through Aomori Prefecture, the northern-most prefecture in main island Japan. From late April to early May, you will be greeted by the sight of cherry blossoms on both sides of the track. Stopping at several stations, it notably passes by the Ashino Park station, known for its 1,500 cherry trees!

SL Moka, Ibaraki

The Moka Railway (top image) – Steam Locomotive is a local train line that spans about 40 km, from Shimodate station in Ibaraki to Mogi station in Tochigi. This railway line is famous for the stunning views of light pink cherry blossoms trees contrasting with the bright yellow of nanohana (vegetable flowers) fields.

Oigawa Railway, Shizuoka

This 1930s steam locomotive travels from Shin Kanaya station to Senzu station, in the Shizuoka prefecture. During the cherry blossom season, there are a lot of cherry blossom spots alongside Oigawa Railway. Especially the tunnel of cherry trees that span around 1km along the Oi River near Ieyama station.

Kominato and Isumi lines, Chiba

Another railway, well known for its cherrrry blossoms and nanohana flowers. The Kominato Line is a rural railway over a 40-kilometer stretch with view of nanohana fields and cherry blossoms ubiquitous in the spring, surrounded by small mountains.

Sagano line, Kyoto

Nicknamed “Sagano Romantic Train“, the steam train of the Sagano line offers a 25-minute journey along the banks of the Hozu River and Hozukyo ravine, from Saga Torroko station to the tunnel of Kameoka Torroko station.