Tuesday, June 24, 2025
Japan’s railways are about to elevate the travel experience with a brand new sleeper train. JR East is converting its E657 express EMU to offer an overnight journey from Tokyo to the scenic northern Tohoku region. Slated to launch in spring 2027, this unique service will turn long-distance travel into an adventure in itself.
By transforming an ordinary overnight trip into a luxurious, destination-worthy experience, JR East is aiming to revive the excitement of train travel while promoting the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Tohoku area.
A New Era of Rail Travel
In an era where high-speed bullet trains are the norm, JR East is making waves by reintroducing the charm of overnight rail travel. This new train, designed for maximum comfort, will offer exclusive sleeping compartments on a journey from Tokyo to the northern Tohoku region. With the promise of plush accommodations and stunning landscapes, this sleeper train is set to become a travel experience unlike any other.
The new service isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about turning the journey itself into a destination. JR East envisions the train ride as a memorable experience, providing passengers with a relaxing, scenic, and cultural immersion that can be enjoyed overnight.
Premium Green and Green Class: Ultimate Comfort
This train will focus on luxurious yet practical accommodations for travelers. In total, the 10-car train will provide two types of exclusive spaces: Green class and Premium Green class.
- Green Class: This will cover seven of the train’s 10 cars, offering cozy and comfortable sleeping arrangements. The rooms will cater to small groups or solo travelers, with private compartments designed for up to four passengers.
- Premium Green Class: The end cars will feature the high-end Premium Green class, with rooms that offer added comfort. These private rooms will feature luxurious interiors and plush amenities designed for one or two passengers.
Each room will be designed with comfort and convenience in mind, featuring beds that can be transformed from large L-shaped sofas, ample luggage storage, and private spaces that make the journey feel like a personal retreat.
Lounge Car: A Social Experience
To complement the private rooms, the train will feature a lounge car in Car number five, where passengers can relax and socialize. The lounge will be a great way to unwind, take in the landscape through large windows, and meet fellow travelers, creating a sense of community even while traveling long distances.
Accessibility for All
Inclusivity is at the forefront of the design. In Car 6, there will be two wheelchair-accessible Green private rooms designed for one or two passengers. These rooms will provide the same level of comfort as the regular Green rooms, ensuring that all passengers can enjoy the experience, regardless of mobility challenges.
Reviving Rail Tourism
JR East’s new sleeper train is more than just a way to travel—it’s an experience designed to make passengers fall in love with the journey itself. It’s about reconnecting people to the joys of train travel and offering an authentic, scenic view of Japan’s countryside. By targeting both domestic and international tourists, the project hopes to spark renewed interest in Japan’s lesser-explored regions, especially the Tohoku area, which is rich in natural beauty and culture.
Through this initiative, JR East is aiming to attract not only railway enthusiasts but also those eager to explore Japan’s rural charm in a way that no other form of transport can offer. As the train rolls out in 2027, it’s poised to become a key player in the future of tourism in Japan, offering an unforgettable journey through one of the country’s most picturesque regions.
Bottom Line
JR East’s upcoming sleeper train is set to redefine long-distance travel, turning a routine journey into a luxurious escape. With its focus on comfort, inclusivity, and scenic views, this train is sure to attract tourists from all over the world. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this new experience promises to be a highlight of any trip to Japan.
