Pursuits

Opulent Trains Show Japan Is Eager to Spend

As optimism returns, the elderly and the affluent open their wallets

A four-day luxury package can cost more than $10,000. The rear car features two deluxe suites and an observation loungePhotograph by Asahi Shimbun/Getty Images

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By Chris Cooper and Kiyotaka Matsuda

October 4, 2013 at 1:51 AM UTC

This article is for subscribers only.

BusinessWeek Cover Image (13_41, 1600x2398)

This article is part of the October 7, 2013 issue of businessweek.

A train ride on the Seven Stars in Kyushu can set you back 391,000 yen ($3,900). For that price, a passenger gets three nights in a suite with walnut and maple paneling. A lounge car offers plush sofas and a pianist to provide live background music. The restaurant car features dishes devised by Koji Shimomura, whose Tokyo restaurant was awarded two stars by Michelin. The service makes its debut Oct. 15. Tickets are sold out until June.

Opulent Trains Show Japan Is Eager to Spend