The Koshino Shu*Kura Train

Published on : 26/06/2016
by : Japan Experience

Travel In Niigata

This incredible train has live jazz and local saké! Read more about this magical Japan train.

Out in the beautiful mountains of Niigata Prefecture is one of Japan’s many special trains. Glide across the countryside in style on the Koshino Shu*Kura train.

Niigata Prefecture - Takada Station to Tokamachi Station

This train, which runs along the Sea of Japan, is a perfect getaway: take in the ocean views as you drink local spirits (jizake) and listen to live jazz! At this train’s terminus, the town of Tokamachi is surrounded by a mountain range that is home to many ski resorts and onsen.

There is even a snow festival in February, too! It is famous for rice, which means that all around you can see picturesque rice paddies.

ShuKura
© By 羽吹舞 - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=36669206

Located just one station away from the Joetsu Shinkansen’s Nagaoka Station, Miyauchi Station is a great gateway to visit Settaya, a small town that produces local sake, miso, and soy sauce.

This side trip is an incredible way to visit small-town Japan, with its old wooden buildings, while eating well and picking up memorable small-batch souvenirs.

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