JR Tokai, Tokyu to Operate Luxury Train in Shizuoka Pref.

Shizuoka (Jiji Press) – Central Japan Railway Co., or JR Tokai, and Tokyu Corp. said Thursday they will operate a luxury tourist train in central Shizuoka Prefecture from November to December.

Passengers on The Royal Express, an eight-car train, can enjoy stunning views of Mount Fuji and Lake Hamana, as well as French and Japanese cuisine made from locally sourced food.

Packages start at ¥750,000, and a maximum of 30 passengers are accepted for each of the six rides over the two months. Applications submitted both online and by post will be accepted from Friday and tickets will be sold by lottery.

The two Japanese railway companies want to promote regional revitalization through the service.

At a press conference, JR Tokai president Shunsuke Niwa said the company would like to showcase the allure of Shizuoka to as many people as possible. Tokyu President Masahiro Horie expressed hope to contribute to the stimulation of the Shizuoka area.