Special Train Rides for Kids and Families

7 memorable Japanese train rides, with honest tips on seats, trip length, crowds, and reservations

7 places curated by KidsGoTravel for family travelers.

  1. 1. family-train-resort-21

  2. 2. Saphir Odoriko

    Tokyo, Japan

    An all-reserved Green Car limited express to Izu, making a calm family journey easier to plan. If the budget fits, the private compartments for groups are a comfortable option.

  3. 3. Enoden

    Kamakura & Enoshima, Japan

    A compact coastal railway that works well as a short ride between Kamakura and Enoshima. Trains can be crowded enough that families must stand, so weekday daytime is the gentlest window.

  4. 4. family-train-resort-shirakami

  5. 5. Iyonada Monogatari

    Ehime, Japan

    A refined, all-reserved sightseeing train along the calm Iyonada coast. Pick one of its separate journeys to keep the day manageable, and reserve any onboard meal separately in advance.

  6. 6. Two Stars 4047

    Nagasaki & Saga, Japan

    An all-reserved West Kyushu sightseeing train with two sea routes: the Ariake Sea in the morning and Omura Bay in the afternoon. Choose the direction that best fits naps and the rest of your family day.

  7. 7. POKÉMON with YOU Train

    Iwate & Miyagi, Japan

    A bright Pikachu-themed train created for children, with a playful interior that makes the ride itself the attraction. All seats are reserved and operating days vary, so book before building the trip.

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