Japan’s Night Trains Are Back! Why Travelers Are Flocking to This Nostalgic Mode of Transport

Published on November 24, 2025

Night trains, once a hallmark of long-distance travel across Japan, are experiencing a resurgence in popularity. With the introduction of new services, including the much-celebrated WEST EXPRESS GINGA and the upcoming night train from JR East in 2027, the country is revisiting a nostalgic yet practical mode of travel. This revival comes as part of an effort to cater to both the growing demand for tourism and the need for more affordable travel options. Once iconic trains like the Blue Trains that ran across Japan’s vast rail network have become a symbol of the nation’s rich travel history, and they are once again attracting attention.

The Return of the BLUE TRAINS and New Developments

In 2020, JR West made headlines when it launched the WEST EXPRESS GINGA, a new night train connecting the Kansai region with the San’in area. The response was overwhelming, with many departures selling out quickly. Building on this success, JR East has announced plans to introduce a new night train in 2027, linking the Tokyo metropolitan area to the northern Tohoku region. This new addition will follow in the footsteps of the famous Blue Trains of the past, known for their luxury and iconic design.

A Journey Through Time: The History of Night Trains in Japan

Night train services in Japan have a storied history, with their origins dating back to 1889 when the full Tokaido Line was completed. The early services connected Shimbashi in Tokyo to Kobe, taking more than 20 hours with numerous local stops along the way. These trains operated as overnight services, offering travelers a convenient option to traverse long distances while sleeping through the night. As Japan industrialized and the need for efficient transportation grew, night trains became a staple for both business travelers and tourists.

After World War II, Japan’s rail network expanded further, with the rise of limited-express and express night trainsserving major cities across the nation. These services were a lifeline for long-distance travelers, offering comfort and convenience. However, over time, the introduction of faster modes of transportation, including the Shinkansen (bullet train), airplanes, and overnight buses, led to a gradual decline in the popularity of night trains.

The Shift Towards Tourism: Night Trains as a Unique Travel Experience

The decline of night trains was largely driven by the rise of faster and more affordable alternatives. According to railway analyst Ryozo Kawashima, night trains struggled to compete with the speed and price of newer travel options. The privatization of Japanese National Railways (JNR) also played a role in the decline, as profits from night train services had to be shared among the various JR companies that operated the different train segments, resulting in reduced profitability.

Despite these challenges, night trains have made a noticeable return to the spotlight, thanks in part to changes in demand. Rather than being used for business travel, night trains are increasingly popular among tourists seeking a unique way to explore Japan. The combination of travel and accommodation on a single journey has proven to be an attractive option for many, especially with the rising cost of hotels and accommodation in popular tourist areas. As Japan’s inbound tourismhas surged, the appeal of night trains has grown, offering an affordable and immersive way to travel.

The WEST EXPRESS GINGA: A New Night Train Experience

One of the most notable success stories of this night train revival is JR West’s WEST EXPRESS GINGA, which was reintroduced during the pandemic. This service operates between Kansai and the Ise/Chugoku regions, areas that had previously lost night train services. The WEST EXPRESS GINGA offers a nostalgic journey for passengers, many of whom are younger travelers or families looking for an adventure. With its spacious compartments and the comfort of a night’s sleep, the train offers a rare chance to travel while enjoying both the ride and the accommodation.

Since its launch, the train has seen immense popularity, with many departures selling out even on weekdays. Fares for the train ride between Kyoto and Shimonoseki start at approximately ¥12,900 JPY (around $80 USD), making it an affordable yet charming way to experience Japan.

The Growing Popularity of Night Trains Among Young Travelers

The appeal of night trains has grown particularly among younger travelers. Many of them have taken to social media platforms, sharing videos and posts of their night train experiences. These posts often garner millions of views, showing just how much interest there is in this mode of travel. Yuki Kobe, a university student from Kanagawa Prefecture, recalled how excited she was about her first ride on a night train, noting that the thrill of traveling overnight added a special element to the journey. She remarked that the difficulty in securing tickets only heightened the excitement of riding a night train, making it feel like a unique adventure.

Night trains have become more than just a means of transportation; they are now part of the experience itself. Travelers can choose between different types of accommodations, such as private compartments or open seating areas. For those seeking privacy and comfort, the Sunrise Seto/Izumo train offers a range of options, including lockable rooms that provide a more intimate setting. The chance to relax and enjoy the journey while traveling through the night has proven to be a major draw.

The Economic and Cultural Benefits of Night Trains

The resurgence of night trains not only meets the demand for affordable travel but also brings cultural and economic benefits to the regions they serve. For example, areas like Shimonoseki, which are often overlooked by other modes of transportation, are now becoming more accessible to tourists. By offering these services, Japan’s rail companies are helping to distribute the benefits of tourism more evenly across the country, encouraging visitors to explore lesser-known destinations.

Additionally, the revival of night trains helps ease the strain on Japan’s high-cost hotel market, which has been impacted by the increasing number of international tourists. By offering both travel and accommodation, night trains provide an efficient solution to rising hotel prices, making travel more affordable for tourists, particularly during peak seasons.

A Bright Future for Night Trains in Japan

The comeback of Japan’s night trains signals a shift in how people view transportation. What was once considered a relic of the past is now being embraced as a new and exciting way to travel. With more night train routes planned for the future, including the new service from JR East in 2027, the tradition of overnight travel in Japan is likely to grow even more popular. The convenience, charm, and affordability of night trains make them an appealing option for modern-day travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience, all while enjoying the comfort of a night’s rest on the move.