Boarding This Beautiful ‘Kyotrain’ Feels Like Stepping Into a Traditional Japanese Inn

Kyotrain Garaku Osaka to Kyoto Train Japan Train

Even with its cutting-edge technology and ultra modern art, Japan is proud of its past. In homage to the country's history and customs, contemporary designers constantly look to traditional models for inspiration. This approach has culminated in coffee shop tea houses, Kei truck gardens, and, most recently, a train masquerading as an inn.

Called the Kyotrain Garaku, this train boasts an interior reminiscent of a ryokan, or a traditional Japanese inn. In order to capture the look and feel of these sites, the train incorporates elements like tatami reed detailing, partitions that look like shōji sliding doors, and even real landscaped gardens.

Kyotrain Garaku Osaka to Kyoto Train Japan Train

The thematic approach doesn't stop there. In addition to these thoughtful touches, each Kyotrain Garaku car will be decorated according to a specific season. The first car will represent autumn with a maple leaf motif, while the second will incorporate bamboo to symbolize the New Year, or start of winter. The third will channel spring with sakura, or cherry blossoms, and the fourth car's geraniums will invite passengers to step into summer. Finally, the fifth and sixth cars will evoke early autumn and early spring with pampas grass and plum blossoms, respectively.

Embarking in March of 2019, the Kyotrain Garaku will connect Kyoto to Osaka, stopping at Karasuma, Katsura, Awaji, and Juso during the 45-minute journey. With tickets estimated to cost just $3.50, this is one train you won't want to miss.

Want to see Japan in style? Catch the Kyotrain Garaku, a train that incorporates elements of traditional Japanese interior design.

Kyotrain Garaku Osaka to Kyoto Train Japan Train

Kyotrain Garaku Osaka to Kyoto Train Japan Train

Kyotrain Garaku Osaka to Kyoto Train Japan Train

Kyotrain Garaku Osaka to Kyoto Train Japan Train

h/t: [SoraNews24]

All photos via Hankyu Corporation Press Release.

Related Articles:

Travel Japan in Super-Cute Style on the Hello Kitty Bullet Train

Japan’s Ferrari-Design Luxury Train Takes Travel to New Levels of Opulence

15 Japanese-Inspired Gifts to Creatively Celebrate “Culture Day”

Kelly Richman-Abdou

Kelly Richman-Abdou is a Contributing Writer at My Modern Met. An art historian living in Paris, Kelly was born and raised in San Francisco and holds a BA in Art History from the University of San Francisco and an MA in Art and Museum Studies from Georgetown University. When she’s not writing, you can find Kelly wandering around Paris, whether she’s leading a tour (as a guide, she has been interviewed by BBC World News America and France 24) or simply taking a stroll with her husband and two tiny daughters.
Become a
My Modern Met Member
As a member, you'll join us in our effort to support the arts.
Become a Member
Explore member benefits

Sponsored Content