- I paid $12 to take a luxurious sightseeing train in Japan from Nara to Kyoto.
- Because I was traveling solo, I had to purchase two twin seats, sold as a pair.
- The train had comfortable plush chairs, a café, a reading nook, and a bidet in the bathroom.
Japan may be known for its network of high-speed bullet trains, but one of the country’s trendiest train trips takes around 35 minutes and screams luxury.
The Kintetsu Railway’s Sightseeing Limited Express “Aoniyoshi” train connects Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto and makes train travel stylish and convenient.
While solo traveling in Kyoto this winter, I planned a day trip to Nara: a city known for its wild deer, Buddhist temples, and historic sake breweries.
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Although I decided to take a basic train there, I decided to treat myself to a trip on the Sightseeing Limited Express Aoniyoshi train on the way back.
That decision came at a negligible cost — both in money and in time — and the ensuing ride encapsulated some of the best parts of Japan.
Here’s what my trip on Japan’s Aoniyoshi train was like.