Roam remotely in Japan by train

Japan’s rail network isn’t just about fast and convenient connections – it also offers one of the most eco-friendly ways to explore the country’s diverse landscapes.

For those looking to reduce their carbon footprint, relax and be immersed in the wonderful Japanese landscapes, train travel presents a responsible and scenic alternative to car or air travel.

Where Wild Things Roam highlights six destinations to explore by train, each offering a glimpse into Japan’s natural beauty, all the while making you feel good about your travel footprint. By choosing rail travel, you can contribute to a more sustainable tourism model that helps preserve Japan’s pristine natural areas and cultural heritage for future generations.

A top tip for savvy rail adventures in Japan is to plan to use the Japan Rail Pass.

1. Tsubojiri Station, Shikoku

Nestled in Shikoku’s mountainous interior, Tsubojiri Station on the Dosan Line provides eco-conscious travellers with a tranquil experience deep in nature. Known as a “hikyo eki” (secluded station), Tsubojiri showcases the beauty of Japan’s untouched landscapes, which can be accessed without the environmental toll of a car journey. Travelling on the Shikoku Mannaka Sennen sightseeing train enhances the experience, with its sustainably sourced wooden interiors, local cuisine, and sake – all crafted to support the local community. Starting from Okayama Station, visitors take the Seto-Ohashi Line to Tadotsu Station, then transfer to the Dosan Line to reach Tsubojiri.

2. Okuoikojo Station, Shizuoka Prefecture

For breathtaking views over Lake Sesso, Okuoikojo Station encourages slow tourism through its seasonal beauty. Perched high above the lake, this train journey allows travellers to experience the local environment up close – from cherry blossoms in spring to snowy winters – without adding pollution to the pristine setting. Travellers start at Kanaya Station on the JR Tokaido Line, take the Oigawa Main Line to Ieyama, and then board the Ikawa Line to reach Okuoikojo. Opting for train travel over cars or flights helps protect these natural areas from the impact of increased emissions.

3. Kushiro Shitsugen Station, Hokkaido

In Hokkaido, the Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko sightseeing train provides an environmentally friendly way to explore Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, Japan’s largest marshland and a haven for rare wildlife. The train’s slow pace offers a unique perspective on the wetlands, allowing passengers to witness red-crowned cranes, deer, and migratory birds while minimizing human impact on this fragile ecosystem. The 50-minute journey from Kushiro Station to Toro Station offers a mindful approach to nature tourism, promoting appreciation for Japan’s biodiversity.

4. Gono Line, Aomori and Akita Prefectures

Running along the rugged Sea of Japan coastline, the Gono Line is a sustainable way to experience the remote beauty of Aomori and Akita’s coastlines and fishing villages. With access to Shirakami-Sanchi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, travellers can explore untouched beech forests and ancient ponds without contributing to road congestion or emissions. Stops along the line offer entry to natural treasures like the Senjojiki Coast and Aoike, making train travel both scenic and eco-conscious.

5. Hakubi Line, Okayama to Shimane Prefectures

Traversing the Chugoku region’s mountains and valleys, the Hakubi Line provides a scenic and sustainable route from Okayama to Shimane. This train route passes through small villages, rivers, and forests, offering access to attractions like Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, the “Mountain Castle in the Sky,” as well as the labyrinthine Ikura Cave. Travelling by train through this region not only reduces road traffic in remote areas but also helps protect the region’s delicate ecosystems, while supporting sustainable tourism in lesser-known destinations.

6. Narai Station, Nagano Prefecture

A visit to Narai-juku from Narai Station is a responsible way to enjoy the historical Nakasendo Trail without disturbing its carefully preserved architecture and heritage sites. Set in the Japanese Alps, Narai-juku’s wooden structures and traditional merchant houses can be reached directly by rail, sparing the roads and environment from emissions. With highlights like Nakamura Residence, Shizume Shrine, and Kiso Bridge, train travel to this area supports the preservation of Edo-period townscapes and enhances sustainable tourism.

For more info on what Japan has to offer, check out the official Japanese tourism site which can be found here.

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