S1 E1 • A Century-Old Railway in Kyushu

Canadian, Nick Szasz, takes us train cruising, the best way to travel, on the Hisatsu Line in Kyushu that connects Kumamoto to Kagoshima. Known as the Treasury of Railway Heritage, this century-old line has many historic stations and bridges, and is a popular destination for rail enthusiasts. Nick travels along the Kuma River on the Steam Locomotive Hitoyoshi; transfers to the Isaburo Shinpei, which climbs slopes using a loop and a switchback; and boards Hayato no Kaze, a limited express to arrive at Sakurajima. On the way he tastes the local ekiben lunch boxes, and experiences the magnificent natural landscape.

Première diffusion : 25 mai 2013

S1 E2 • Journey to Highland Hot Spring Resorts

Climb aboard the limited express that runs between Hakata and two of Japan's most popular hot spring resorts, Yufuin and Beppu. The train slows down along scenic spots to let passengers enjoy the beautiful landscape through oversize windows. Discover the local specialties and the charms of highland hot springs.

Première diffusion : 16 novembre 2013

S1 E1 • Exciting Rail Attractions on a 400km Journey

A stunning train journey through central Japan, from the Japan Sea coast to the Pacific Ocean. Ride with us and enjoy breathtaking views from the Sightseeing Limited Express, and a special event on a local train. We visit famous spots such as Takayama, where evocative old wooden houses still line the streets, and the spectacular Ise-Jingu Shrine. We also visit a popular museum packed full of attractive railway exhibits, making this program more of a "must-see".

Première diffusion : 25 janvier 2014

S1 E2 • A Fall Trip from Kyoto to the Japan Sea

If you have a passion for railways, do not miss this program! Our tour starts in Kyoto, Japan's ancient capital. We first ride on a special streetcar and an open-air tram before boarding a charming local train to the Japan Sea coast. Foodies will enjoy the snow crabs and other local gourmet specialties we encounter along the way.

Première diffusion : 1 février 2014

S1 E3 • A Heart-Warming Journey Through the Tohoku Winter

This time we travel to the cold, snowy Tohoku. We first board the Akita Inland Traverse Railway Home-cooking Dining Car, where we take in the wintery landscapes, while feasting on a homemade farmers' meal. We then hop on the Resort Shirakami to catch a spectacular panorama view of the Sea of Japan. Changing to the Tsugaru Railway Hot Stove Car, we warm ourselves by the hot onboard stove while the snow storms pass by outside. We mingle with the locals and nibble on fried cuttlefish snacks.

Première diffusion : 8 mars 2014

S1 E4 • Shikoku Railroad Wonderland - Part 1

"Train Cruise" is a program taking you around Japan on train trips. The stage of this episode is Shikoku. In Shikoku, made up of 4 prefectures, there are many trains running that have distinctive characteristics. They are fun both to ride on and to look at. An American, Michael Rivas will take a 4-day trip on such trains. In Takamatsu City in Kagawa Prefecture, Michael rides on the oldest streetcar in Japan which is hugely popular among railroad fans. And he rediscovers the charms of a retrospective train. On the Dosan Line running through a valley known as a difficult place for traffic in Shikoku, Michael enjoys the dynamic scenery to its fullest. In the warm southern prefecture of Kochi where he visits in the middle of his trip, Michael gets to eat the local specialty bonito, and is captivated by its delightful taste! Michael then uses the Yodo Line to head to the trip's final destination, Ehime Prefecture. There, he encounters a train modeled after Shinkansen bullet train which can be said the symbol of super-fast trains. There, Michael learns that the Yodo Line has other trains running that are fun to ride on, such as an original tram on which you can enjoy the surrounding scenery filled with great nature. On the trip this time, our American traveler, Michael Rivas introduces not only how to use trains for going from one place to another, but also to enjoy the train themselves as you ride on them.

Première diffusion : 14 juin 2014

S1 E5 • Shikoku Railroad Wonderland - Part 2

This program is Part 2 of "Shikoku Railroad Wonderland". In Part 1, Michael Rivas travelled through Kagawa, Tokushima and Kochi Prefectures, 3 of Shikoku's 4 prefectures. In Part 2, he travels through Ehime Prefecture. He starts from Uwajima City where he ended up in the first episode. He rides the limited express Uwajima heading for his destination of Matsuyama City. In the train, he enjoys an ekiben boxed lunch with jyako-ten deep fried fish cake, a local specialty. On the way to Matsuyama, he transfers to a local train from Iyo Ozu station and he introduces the beautiful scenery of Seto Inland Sea (Seto Nai-kai) as the train runs along the shoreline. At his final destination of Matsuyama, he rides the Botchan Train which is a reproduction of a 100 year old steam locomotive. He finds a surprise function of the Botchan Train, which is very popular among tourists. Dogo Onsen, the oldest hot spring in Japan, also makes an appearance in Part 2. In addition, the latter half of the program includes an omnibus edition of the Train Cruise series. It is a showcase of rare and beautiful trains and specially selected scenes. Don't miss it!

Première diffusion : 15 juin 2014

S1 E6 • Family Fun at the Aso Caldera

Another episode in our series for train lovers. This time we feature a fun trip for the whole family. Starting at Kumamoto Station in Kyushu, we head towards Mt. Aso. Kids will be delighted with the cute dog mascot for the special express train, Asoboy. The train is equipped with a library with a collection of picture books and plenty of space for families to play and rest. We then take the old-fashioned scenic "Torokko" trolley train, crossing a bridge 60 meters high over a stunning valley amid the beautiful surrounds of Mt. Aso.

Première diffusion : 19 juillet 2014

S1 E7 • Traveling like a local around Lake Biwa

Our train journey takes you to Lake Biwa, Japan's biggest lake. We board trains cherished by the locals and sample food they recommend. The Gachakon Train on the Omi Railway Main Line gets its name from the noisy "gacha" sound it makes during its journey. We also ride a special summer train that operates as a beer hall on wheels and climb aboard the SL Kita-Biwako that travels the JR Hokuriku Main Line at certain times of the year.

Première diffusion : 27 septembre 2014

S1 E1 • Autumn Delights in Tohoku and Shin-Etsu

The stage of our train cruise this time is deep autumn in East Japan's Yamagata, Fukushima and Niigata Prefectures. Our traveler thoroughly enjoys both food created from abundant autumn crops and beautiful views of the colored leaves of autumn. In addition, our train trip touches local people's lives by exploring regional traditions. The cruise starts from Shinjo, Yamagata which is located less than 4 hours from Tokyo by train. Our traveler enjoys a boxed lunch filled with Yamagata's autumn tastes and a Shinkansen event train car called Treiyutsubasa, which is equipped with an ashiyu hot spring foot bath. The next leg of the trip takes place on the Oza-Toro-Tembo Train from Aizu Wakamatsu in Fukushima Prefecture. Our traveler is thrilled by the beautiful colored leaves viewed from the observation car and surprised to meet a cat stationmaster. From Niigata Station, our traveler visits Sea of Japan on the Ryuto Shu*Kura where passengers can sample sake rice wine produced in Niigata, one of Japan's foremost sake brewing areas. The train cruise experience deeply touches both our traveler and the other passengers.

Première diffusion : 4 janvier 2015

S1 E2 • Japanese Culture along the Inland Sea

In this episode, we take you between the prefectures of Hiroshima and Yamaguchi in western Japan. In Hiroshima, we see some of the famous antique streetcars that have been gathered here from across Japan. We then follow a route linking 2 World Heritage Sites, the Atomic Bomb Dome, which survived the devastation of the nuclear bomb, and the Itsukushima Shrine, a magnificent temple in the sea. Reaching Yamaguchi Prefecture, we go into the mountains along small railway lines from Iwakuni, a town famous for its beautiful wooden Brocade Sash Bridge (Kintaikyo Bridge), with its graceful arches.

Première diffusion : 21 mars 2015

S1 E3 • A Taste of Japanese Culture along the Oigawa River

The Oi River (Oigawa) flows through the center of Shizuoka Prefecture starting from the Southern Alps. The Oigawa Railways run a distance of 65 km along the river. They feature a nostalgic steam locomotive and a tram which climbs a steep hill. This route draws the attention of railway enthusiasts as a functioning railway theme park. Along the route, we encounter thriving traditional Japanese culture and view beautiful forest scenery from the windows of retro rail cars. Our traveler this time is Francesco Bellissimo, a food researcher from Italy. He journeys along the Oigawa Railways to discover unseen parts of Japan.

Première diffusion : 18 juillet 2015

S1 E4 • Autumn in Japan's Northern Island

From the Kushiro Wetlands teeming with wildlife to the deep blue Sea of Okhotsk, we travel along the Senmo Line for the 160-km journey from Kushiro to Abashiri, discovering some of the most stunning panoramas of Hokkaido while autumn is in full swing.

Première diffusion : 21 novembre 2015

S1 E1 • The Cities, Mountains, and Seas of Osaka and Wakayama

We start at Kansai International Airport. In the metropolis of Osaka, we ride the futuristic Rapi:t that resembles something out of a sci-fi movie, enjoy a bite at a local eatery, and travel by the latest streetcar through the suburbs. In Wakayama Prefecture, we journey through rugged terrain to Mt. Koya, 800m in altitude. Here we leave forget the everyday and experience Buddhist monastic life. Then we take local trains down toward the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, we discover a little train that hauls the local mikan harvest through mountainside orchards near the coast. We also meet an old fishing family and a feline stationmaster. Enjoy a journey to the city, mountain, and sea in Osaka and Wakayama.

Première diffusion : 12 février 2016

S1 E2 • Visiting the Land of Japanese Myths

This time, we'll travel on trains through Shimane Prefecture, a spiritual part of Japan where Japanese gods and humans have a strong bond. We ride a pink train to Izumo Taisha, a shrine where all the gods come to assemble. We start our journey asking the gods to help us connect with others. Afterwards, a wide-open trolley takes us through a mountain range home to the mythical snake beast Orochi. Using a technique called "switchback", the trolley climbs up the mountain for a breathtaking view. We then get on a train designed with kagura, a traditional form of Japanese entertainment. We experience an exciting kagura performance about the god who comes to vanquish the Orochi. Travel with us back in time to the mythical world of Japanese legends.

Première diffusion : 3 septembre 2016

S1 E3 • Feel the Samurai Spirit in Kumamoto and Kagoshima

The Hisatsu Orange Railway runs across the west coast of the island of Kyushu, connecting Kagoshima and Kumamoto Prefectures. Television personality Thane Camus takes a ride from Yatsushiro to Sendai Station. Along the way, he catches views of the blue sea, mingles with commuters and students, and stops off at places they recommend. From Kagoshima's samurai traditions to Kumamoto's hot springs, the trip is filled with experiences to remember.

Première diffusion : 24 décembre 2016

S1 E1 • Hokkaido: Into the Harsh Winter of Japan's Far North

Our journey takes place in Japan's northern island of Hokkaido, where we travel to the northernmost part of the island using local train lines. The harsh Hokkaido winter scenery passes outside the windows, treating passengers to dreamy frozen landscapes bustling with wildlife. We even catch one of the few trains in Japan that runs through areas of heavy snowfall, as well as visit a travel lodge built in the style of an old train station, and even indulge ourselves with some famous eki-soba. This two-night/three-day trip will fill you with the magic of Hokkaido's winter.

Première diffusion : 10 février 2017

S1 E2 • Along the Coast of the Seto Inland Sea

Located in western Japan, the Seto Inland Sea is home to about 700 islands. This episode, we travel from Okayama Prefecture to Hiroshima Prefecture along the coast. The La Malle de Bois train is perfect for tourists with free Wi-Fi and outlets, while the Setouchi Marine View's huge windows allow for amazing views of the ocean. While taking in the beautiful sights, we stop at Kurashiki, Onomichi, Takehara, Kure, and finally Hiroshima, enjoying all that they have to offer.

Première diffusion : 17 juin 2017

S1 E3 • A Volcanic Peninsula on a Single-car Train

The Shimabara Railway runs along the coast of the Shimabara Peninsula, which is located in Nagasaki Prefecture in Kyushu. The peninsula is dominated by massive volcanoes and is blessed with hot springs and spring water gushing out in many places. At a seaside station, there is a marvelous view of the dynamic change in the tide, and we can also enjoy a crab dish. Furthermore, there is a beautiful Japanese garden with abundant spring water. We can fully enjoy the journey on a cute single-car train.

Première diffusion : 16 septembre 2017

S1 E4 • Heartbeat of a Northern Land

Our journey takes place in Japan's northern island of Hokkaido, where we travel along a figure 8-shaped route on local lines in the island's southern part. Rising amidst the railroad line is Mt. Komagatake, a stunning mountain whose different sides can be enjoyed from the train. Furthermore, we can see the high-speed Hokkaido Shinkansen, as well as experience a culinary treat indispensable to Japanese train travel, Ekiben. This 3 days 2 nights trip will delight you with Hokkaido's autumn.

Première diffusion : 18 novembre 2017

S1 E1 • Along the Mountain Rivers of Fukushima and Miyagi

This time, we travel through Fukushima and Miyagi Prefectures, a region that has maintained a close relationship with nearby rivers and mountains. We start off heading north alongside Japan's 6th largest river, visiting a mini steam locomotive and enjoy some river boating along the way. In the city, we find a subway train that climbs up mountains and crosses rivers, and at times offers some nice scenery. Our journey ends with a specialty tourist train and a visit to 1,000-year-old hot springs.

Première diffusion : 6 janvier 2018

S1 E2 • The Treasures of Country Life outside Osaka

We travel from Osaka Station, the gateway to western Japan, through neighboring Hyogo Prefecture. We explore a rural line that was revitalized by local residents, then travel to the Seto Inland Sea to relish fresh oysters. Next, we ride the futuristic Super Hakuto. At a 400-year-old post town that has changed little over time, we hear tales about master swordsman Miyamoto Musashi. Further on, we travel through mountains on the Hamakaze to a bag-producing town where we meet Japan's sole wicker-trunk weaver. At our final destination Kinosaki, we relax in 1,400-year-old hot springs and reflect on the treasures Hyogo has to offer.

Première diffusion : 20 janvier 2018

S1 E3 • Pacific Coastal Life in Shikoku Island

Luke Bridgford travels to eastern Kochi Prefecture in Shikoku where he embarks on his 200-kilometer long eastward journey along the Pacific coastline. He starts on the TOSA KUROSHIO Railway, exploring the epic nature of the Shimanto River basin. He then boards a Limited Express Nanpu with speeds of up to 120 kilometers per hour. He alights in Kuroshio -- an old fishing village. Later in the old castle town of Kochi, Luke gets around on Japan's oldest tram, the Tosaden. He reaches the eastern end of his journey on the Gomen-Nahari Line and his goal, Cape Muroto.

Première diffusion : 17 mars 2018

S1 E4 • Touch the Skies of Kanagawa

Reporter JJ starts his journey through Kanagawa Pref. in the naval city of Yokosuka and heads to Kamakura. This ancient seat of political power is alive with samurai culture and history. From there he heads to Enoshima on the nostalgic Enoden line that lazily runs through the streets and along the Pacific coast. Then he takes to the skies for a thrilling ride on a suspended monorail. And for the climax, he rides a train into the mountains of Hakone in search of a stunning view of the heavens.

Première diffusion : 24 mars 2018

S1 E5 • The Living Museum of Chiba

Discover modern railways and colorful local lines in Chiba Prefecture, just a stone's throw from Tokyo. We start on "Japan's doorstep", at Narita Airport, riding the Shibayama Line into Chiba City and glide through the sky on the Chiba Urban Monorail, the world's longest suspended railway. Then we cross the prefecture on the Kominato Line, passing stations and bridges built more than 90 years ago, meet the people who saved the Isumi Railway from closing, and finally arrive at a menagerie of trains.

Première diffusion : 5 mai 2018

S1 E6 • Izu: From Rugged Coastline to Inland Warmth

Izu Peninsula is a famous hot springs area located about 1 hour by Shinkansen bullet train southwest of Tokyo. On this Train Cruise, we ride on 2 railways that travel the peninsula. On the eastern shore's Izu Kyuko Railway, we visit an attractive and mysterious area designated as a Geopark by UNESCO. On the Sunzu Line of the Izu Hakone Tetsudo, we are delighted by the train's popular animation character decorations and visit a retro unmanned station and historical temple. This is an opportunity to enjoy hot springs and taste the other attractions of Izu.

Première diffusion : 2 juin 2018

S1 E7 • Building the Future on the Miyagi Coast

This time, we travel the Miyagi coastline across northeast Japan, an area that was devastated by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. We travel in trains with unique designs and experience a new method of transportation while indulging in delicious seafood and tasting local Japanese sake crafted to pair with the fish of this area. We also meet a famous symbol of Miyagi Prefecture that has made a major impact on recovery efforts after 2011. Don't miss this special recovery episode of Train Cruise.

Première diffusion : 7 juillet 2018

S1 E8 • The Southern Rays and Breezes of Miyazaki

Miyazaki, located in southeastern Kyushu, is a sun-drenched prefecture facing the Pacific Ocean. In this episode, we travel 170 kilometers from north to south along its coastline, hopping on different trains named "Sunshine" or "Nichirin", which means the "sun" in Japanese. On our way, we have a spectacular view of the "Devil's Washboard", the huge wave-like rock formations on the seashore, savor sweet, delicious mangoes, and come across designer handbags and lampshades made of Japanese cedar. We enjoy the blessings from the sun and the sea in Miyazaki.

Première diffusion : 1 septembre 2018

S1 E9 • Beyond the Brilliant Roof of Hokkaido

Our journey takes place in Hokkaido Prefecture, the northern part of Japan. From Asahikawa Station surrounded by mountains, we head to Shiretoko-Shari Station, located on the Sea of Okhotsk and the gateway to the world famous Shiretoko Peninsula. The trains we ride pass through beautifully lit mountains covered with autumn leaves turning deep red and gold. On our way, we taste the unique local food, made with freshly harvested produce grown along the lines, and see people who have been waiting for coastal waters to become teeming with fish. We also discover a station that is in use for a limited time each year and a steam locomotive that has been preserved by local townspeople. Let's enjoy the vibrant autumn of Hokkaido!

Première diffusion : 1 décembre 2018

S1 E30 • A Route Through Time Bookended by the Two Seas in Western Japan

Kyle Card embarks on a 250-kilometer train journey from the Seto Inland Sea in Okayama Prefecture to the Sea of Japan in Tottori Prefecture. While it's a bicoastal train ride, Kyle spends his time discovering the inland, mountainous area that was opened up when the tracks, he travels on, were completed more than 100 years ago. His trip kicks off on the sightseeing train, "La Malle de Bois," which affords spectacular views of the Seto area. But he soon parts from the water taking first the Tsuyama Line and later the Inbi Line to explore the inland area. As he heads deeper into the mountains he feels like he slips back in time. At Tsuyama, he visits an old railway depot and heritage museum. At Chizu he stays with a family in their farm-inn, learning about the local way of life, which is deeply connected with nature. From Tottori Station, he takes another sightseeing train, the "Ametsuchi" to the Sea of Japan ... his goal.

Première diffusion : 5 janvier 2019

S1 E31 • The Passage of Time in the Snowy North

Traverse the sublime winter wonderland in the northern reaches of Honshu on local lines. Tsugaru Railway is famous for the coal-fired stove on its train. Wonder at the rugged coastline along the Sea of Japan on the JR Gono Line. The Konan Railway is a lifeline for local residents. Visit the old temples, sake breweries, and wooden buildings designated as important cultural properties, and savor the local dishes. Enjoy a slow journey through tranquil snowscapes and sense the passing of time.

Première diffusion : 2 mars 2019

S1 E32 • Along the Sparkling River into the Heart of Japan

The Nagara River in Gifu Prefecture is one of Japan's most beautiful. Running for 72.1km north-south along the stream is the Nagaragawa Railway. The run takes about 2 hours and includes 38 stations. The people who live along the line have intimate relationships with the river. A highly skilled boatwright who uses ancient techniques to build wooden river ships. A middle-aged couple celebrates the river and mountain scenery at their country inn. A man refocuses his life on the river after giving up on his dream of making music overseas.

Première diffusion : 3 mai 2019

S1 E33 • The Energy of Yamaguchi's Harsh Coastline

We depart on our 120km journey from Mojiko in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Pref. Its grand station built in 1914 has been restored to its former glory. We travel through the world's first undersea tunnel to Shimonoseki, whose specialty is blowfish. After feasting on seafood, we head east along the stunning, azure seas of the Sea of Japan coast bound for Hagi, Yamaguchi Pref. We visit unusual sea stacks, feel the power of a millennium-old tree, and talk to the locals who live along these tempestuous seas.

Première diffusion : 1 juin 2019

S1 E34 • Quaint Sketches of Life in the Nagano Countyside

Travel the verdant countryside of Nagano Prefecture in early summer. Our journey starts at a hot-spring town on the Ueda Line where the conductor plays harmonica for passengers. Trains rattle through rustic, hilly terrain along Nagano Electric Railway. The Shinano Line gives new life to colorful, old trains. The JR Shinonoi Line has a view of 1,500 terraced rice fields. The JR Oito Line runs along the foot of the majestic Northern Alps. We peek into the lives of the residents who live each day with thanks to nature.

Première diffusion : 3 août 2019

S1 E35 • Summer Reflections in the North

Our stage this time is Hokkaido Prefecture in the north of Japan. There are many sites worth visiting, such as the hills that display a colorful tapestry under blue skies, Japan's most vast flower gardens, and a serene lake perfect for canoeing. Among the trains that run along this route, the most popular might possibly be the summertime-only sightseeing train, from which you can fully enjoy the summer winds and views. There is even a nostalgic, 40-year-old diesel engine that runs on this line.

Première diffusion : 10 octobre 2019