Sit back and enjoy the journey: Japan's Top 10 local train rides

[cteno4]

Nice article

 

http://en.rocketnews24.com/2014/11/07/sit-back-and-enjoy-the-journey-japans-top-10-local-train-rides/

 

Jeff

[railsquid]

Damn, I've only done two of those (4 and 5).

[katoftw]

The writer must live in the Kanto region.  Seems very Eastern Japan heavy.  While some of those are the best tourist trains,  seems some much better Kyushu ones have been ommitted.

[JR 500系]

While wasn't the Hitsatsu Line mentioned? It was voted first in here: http://www.japan-rail-pass.com/japan-by-rail/travel-tips/ten-best-views-by-train

 

Along with the Takayama line, which really is scenic. I really enjoyed the Hida Wide View ride along the Takayama line...

[katoftw]

I cannot comment on all the trains in the top 10 written about. But yes the Hitsatsu Line ( SL Hitoyoshi/Isaburo/Hayato No Kaze if southbound) is much better than the Sagona Railway. The view of the jade green Kuma River flowing, the numerious stops at old wooden train stations to get out and explore, views of Kirishima Mountains and of Sakurajima is better than a 15 minute ride on the Sagona Railway.  The Sagona Railway is over just after it starts, and you don't go slow enough or have stops to enjoy the view.

 

After re reading the article, I see it was released by a travel agency.  So it's probably based more on sales figures than real life comparisons.  Probably more so why most on the list are closer to Tokyo.

 

If you click the travel agency link, you get to see 3 photos of each railway.  Put it through google chrome if you want it translated.

Edited November 8, 2014 by katoftw