Japan's railway system is a marvel of efficiency, connectivity, and charm, offering travellers an unforgettable way to explore the country.

Rail tour specialist Ffestiniog Travel has created a 20-day escorted tour of the country that includes a First Class Japan Rail Pass - granting travellers access to an unparalleled railway network that blends cutting-edge innovation and nostalgic charm.

General Manager, Maria Cook, comments; “The iconic Shinkansen bullet trains will whisk travellers across the nation at speeds that rival airplanes, all while enjoying spacious seats, impeccable punctuality, and panoramic views of Japan's stunning landscapes. Beyond the high-speed lines, provincial trains traverse scenic rural areas, showcasing picturesque mountains, coastal vistas, smoking volcanoes and charming villages.”

Following a flight to Tokyo the train tour will head south to Kyushu, the southernmost point of the main islands before returning to the capital. En route travellers will enjoy stays and sightseeing in Beppu, Kagoshima, Kumamoto, Nagasaki and Kyoto.

For a dose of nostalgia there will be steam train journeys on the Yamaguchi Go train through rural Yamaguchi Prefecture and the Oigawa Railway takes passengers on a superb trip up the Oigawa Valley entirely by steam.  A day trip to Nara ends with an unforgettable journey back to Kyoto on board the Aoniyoshi luxury sightseeing train.

As  a complete specialist in rail-themed travel, Ffestiniog Travel also includes optional visits to Japan's most historic railway station, Mojiko Station, a tour of Kyushu Railway Museum, a journey in an open train on the Minami-Aso Railway at Tatento, sightseeing onboard Nagasaki's modern and historic tram network and a visit to the Kyoto Railway Museum, the largest in Japan boasting a live roundhouse full of steam locomotives.

It is an immersive railway holiday, but there is plenty to cater to the culture vultures too with visits to 'must see' Japanese landmarks including the Kamikaze Peace & Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museums and the UNESCO World Heritage Sites Himeji Castle and Kinaku-Ji (Golden Temple) in Kyoto. A stand-out highlight is an overnight stay in a traditional Japanese Onsen (Spa) Hotel in Sumatakyo.

Japan, Steam, Volcanoes & Bullet Trains  departs 17 September 2025.  The 20-day escorted holiday costs from £7,650pp (two sharing) and includes return flights, a First Clas Japan Rail Pass, B&B hotel accommodation, excursions and entrance fees, two dinners and the services of a UK tour leader and local English speaking guide.

Maria Cook added; “A journey on Japan's Bullet Trains is on many people's 'must do' list. This tour certainly fulfils that, but beyond these high-speed marvels lies a hidden world of local train lines waiting to be explored. A local train can take you to secluded hot springs, ancient temples, and coastal villages. Travellers will get a deeper look at everyday Japanese life whilst taking in all the famous tourist trappings too. Japan's railways deliver an unforgettable journey that seamlessly combines modern comfort and timeless beauty.”

Read full itinerary here https://www.ffestiniogtravel.com/escorted-tours/worldwide-connoisseur-tours/japan-steam-volcanoes-bullet-trains