From Belmond’s Britannic Explorer to the revival of the Orient Express, it’s no secret that the golden age of rail travel is making a comeback in the western world.
Yet, over a decade ago in 2013, Japan’s Kyushu Railway Company launched The Seven Stars, an exclusive sleeper train that chugs around the island of Kyushu on various itineraries that start and end at Hakata Station.
It’s so exclusive, in fact, that the public have to apply lottery-style to win a place on board; and I managed to bag myself a cabin to try it out.
So what is it like to ride Japan’s most elite experience on rails?
The journey starts in a private lounge, where champagne and canapes are served against live piano music while the itinerary – a two-day, one-night circuit – is explained. From there, the platform is accessed via a priority gate, and in true Japanese-style, the train pulls into the station at exactly 9:29am.
From the outside, the company’s gold star emblem shines proudly from the train’s gleaming royal wine-red exterior, further enhanced by the smart navy blue uniforms of the crew, waiting at each entrance to greet you with a bow.
With only seven cars and a maximum of 20 guests, the experience is intimate. Unfolding amidst ten suites are the salon car, lounge car, a tea room, a hidden bar and the gallery shop.
While each suite has its own spacious shower room and has been set up to accommodate two sofas, which are transformed into beds at night, there is no doubt that the best room is 701.
Sitting at the end of the last car, it features a floor-to-ceiling picture window that frames the passing views outside.
Designed by Eiji Mitooka, the train’s interiors are nostalgic and romantic. Evocative of Meiji-era Japan, an east meets west sensitivity is enhanced by beautiful Japanese craftsmanship.
From the kumiko lattice woodwork to the Aritayaki porcelain lamps, every detail has been thoughtfully executed by local artisans that showcase the best of Kyushu.
Kyushu, Japan’s third largest island, is known for its volcanoes, hot springs and long, desolate beaches. In between exquisite meals, the journey is broken up by immersive excursions that showcase the best of these spots. Expect visits to local potters, weaving workshops and sake tastings.
Of course, on a cold, wintry day, there’s nothing better than returning to the warmth of the train, just in time for lunch or dinner.
Meals on board are elegant, formal affairs cooked by multiple chefs, some of whom boast Michelin stars. Ingredients are sourced straight from the island to create dishes ranging from the rich and creamy uni sushi to kelp-marinated seabream immersed in Taichazuke (rice with green tea broth).
Follow that with a whiskey nightcap in the discreet four-seater bar, before retiring to your cosy cabin to be rocked to sleep by the gentle motion of the train as the snow begins to fall gently outside.
How to book: The Seven Stars is featured by the Luxury Train Club which works with agents.
