Why the Kintetsu Aoniyoshi Should Be on Your Bucket List. Recently, a new gem was unveiled in the world of luxury travel: the Kintetsu Aoniyoshi Sightseeing Limited Express Train. This recent addition to Japan’s rich tapestry of travel experiences offers an indulgent day trip that combines cultural immersion with comfort. For luxury travellers, the queston arises: why should this train be on your bucket list when planning a visit to Japan?

A luxury sightseeing train connecting Osaka, Nara and Kyoto

The Kintetsu Aoniyoshi Sightseeing Train connects three of Japan’s most culturally rich and visually appealing cities: Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto. Each of these cities is a cornerstone of Japanese history, art, and architecture, making this route a journey through the Japan’s cultural heritage. Whether you’re an aficionado of ancient temples, serene gardens, or bustling modernity, this train provides an ideal platform t o explore these diverse landscapes.

Osaka, the starting point for many, is a city where the past meets the future. As the train departs from Osaka-Namba Station, passengers are treted to views of the city’s dynamic neighbourhoods, where contemporary skyscrapers stand alongside traditional markets and historic shrines. The bustling atmosphere of Osaka gradually gives way to the more serene landscapes of Nara and Kyoto, each city offering its own unique window into Japan’s soul.

Street of Gion, Image by Sergii Rudiuk, Shutterstock

Nara, the southern stop, is renowned for its peaceful parks filled with freely roaming deer, ancient temples, and the world-famous Todai-ji Temple, home to a colossal bronze Buddha. The northern destination, Kyoto, is the epitome of traditional Japanese elegnce. As the train approaches Kyoto Station, passengers can admire the city’s scenic beauty, characterized by its meticulously preserved temples, tea houses, and the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates.

Aboard the Kintetsu Aoniyoshi Sightseeing Train

One aspect that places the Kintetsu Aoniyoshi at par with other sightseeing trains is its luxurious design and thoughtful amenities. The train is a sanctuary of comfort and style, designed to enhance the sightseeing experience rather than merely transport passengers from one city to another.

Inside, the train features plush lounge sofas strategically positioned to face large panoramic windows, allowing travellers to absorb the scenic beauty outside fully. The train layout includes a combination of single-row seats and salon-style seating arrangements for groups of four. These groups can enjoy the privacy afforded by partitions, creating an intimate space to share the experience with friends or family.

Kintetsu Aoniyoshi Sightseeing Train Through Osaka Nara Kyoto

The train’s restaurant and bar service is another highlight, offring a select few local delights. For those who need to stay connected, the train provides complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the journey, ensuring that passengers can share their experiences in real-time.

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Whether you’re drawn to Nara’s historical richness, Osaka’s urban vibrancy, or Kyoto’s timeless beauty, the Kintetsu Aoniyoshi ensures that your journey between these destinations is as indulgent and memorable as the sites you’ll explore. In a country where the journey is often as important as the destination, the Kintetsu Aoniyoshi stands out as a luxurious and culturally rich experience that should not be missed. ◼

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© This article was first published online in Aug 2024 – World Travel Magazine.