Twilight Express Mizukaze: an exceptional English-language start!

The Twilight Express Mizukaze is so popular that Japanese passengers often have to wait up to six months to get a ticket and travel on board. However, the management of this iconic train has decided to open a special departure reserved for foreigners.

The Twilight Express Mizukaze available for English speakers © CG

Eager to build the train’s reputation beyond national borders, the management has launched this special English-speaking departure: it will allow non-Japanese-speaking customers who wish to experience a train travel in Japan to discover this gem of the world’s railways.

The Twilight Express Mizukaze available for English speakers © JR West

The spirit of the Twilight Express Mizukaze

Are you wondering what the name of the train, Twilight Express Mizukaze, means? The term “Mizukaze” means “cool and soothing breeze.” It evokes a peaceful journey through the beautiful landscapes of western Japan. The second part of the name refers to another exceptional train beloved by the Japanese: the illustrious Twilight Express. This original train was a legendary overnight train that once connected Osaka to Sapporo. It operated from 1989 to 2015 and was one of the most famous trains in Japan.

Breakfast with a view © CG

For the Japanese, the emotional connection is strong: the Mizukaze awakens nostalgia for the Twilight Express, and its aura extends far beyond train enthusiasts and lovers of luxury train travel. This is likely why the train inspires surprising enthusiasm as it passes by! In Osaka, as in all the station stops along its route, cheerful (and orderly) crowds gather to greet its approach. Travelers line up on the platform to wave. The staff even distributes flags that everyone waves affectionately under its windows. A French passenger aboard the Mizukaze shared, amazed: “In Okayama, all the staff at the town hall came out to welcome the train passengers. It was a memorable moment for the travellers.”

The staff of the Twilight Express Mizukaze © CG

A tribute to Japan's Orient Express

The historic Twilight Express held a near-mythical status in Japan, and the Mizukaze builds on that memory. As a worthy successor, the Twilight Express Mizukaze pays homage to tradition while introducing a modern and original twist. This trend of “reviving” historic luxury trains is reminiscent of the various reincarnations of the Orient Express we see today in Europe! Take, for example, the Accor Group’s project, “La Dolce Vita Orient Express”: by its name, the train anchors itself in the legend of the Orient Express while retaining its own unique character and personality.

Concert on board the Twilight Express Mizukaze © JR West

A luxury train with English-speaking departures

The Twilight Express Mizukaze is part of the trio of Japan’s most prestigious luxury trains, alongside the Seven Stars and the Train Suite Shiki-shima. The Seven Stars operates exclusively on the island of Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s main islands, and is distinguished by its refined interiors, inspired by Japanese traditions. Meanwhile, the Train Suite Shiki-shima stands out with its avant-garde design while traversing the northeastern regions of Japan. However, neither of these two trains currently offers services dedicated to English speakers.

Twilight Express Mizukaze - Restaurant © CG

The Mizukaze, on the other hand, offers a journey through the enchanting landscapes of western Japan. Combining luxury and modernity, it provides exceptional panoramic views, especially along the Sea of Japan, and positions itself as a pioneer by offering departures specifically tailored to an international clientele.

An Indonesian passenger, who had the opportunity to experience these three rail gems, assures: “In terms of bedding, the Mizukaze is the best. The bed, the sheets, the bedding – everything is extremely comfortable,” he explains, emphasizing that this detail, though subtle, takes on great importance during an overnight journey.

The best bedding on Japanese luxury trains © CG

Through the landscapes of Western Japan

The Mizukaze journey is a sensory immersion through varied landscapes and historic sites. It departs from Kyoto, where passengers are warmly welcomed before embarking on an exploration of the region:

• Day 1: After departing from Kyoto, the train travels through Okayama, famous for its Koraku-en Garden, one of the most beautiful in Japan.
• Day 2: The train runs along the Sea of Japan and passes through the Matsue region, where passengers visit Lake Shinji and Mount Daisen, before spending a second night on board.
• Day 3: The return journey passes by the sand dunes of Tottori, an iconic landscape. Each day, excursions are organized to allow passengers to explore cultural sites such as castles, traditional villas, or participate in tea ceremonies. One of the memorable experiences is a performance of the Kagura dance, a traditional Japanese dance with an orchestra.

Gastronomy and exceptional services

The Mizukaze transports a very limited number of passengers on each trip. With only seventeen cabins spread over ten cars, the train can accommodate a maximum of 34 passengers, ensuring an intimate and luxurious atmosphere. This reduced capacity allows for maintaining a high level of personalized service, with a high ratio of staff to passengers.

The gastronomy on board the Mizukaze is also a true celebration of local products. The meals, crafted by Michelin-starred chefs, are designed to reflect the specialties of each region traveled through, with some served in the dining car and others at the passengers' private compartment tables, meticulously set by the staff.

Meal in the compartment © CG

When it comes to ordering drinks, technology is on hand: “In the room, an iPad allows you to order anything you want within minutes,” one traveler shared. Passengers can choose from five types of coffee, teas, whiskeys, numerous wines... “You click on ‘Chablis,’ and a few minutes later, a butler brings it to you. Without any extra charge, of course, as all drinks are included in the experience.”

The compartment in Day mode © CG

A rare opportunity for English-speaking travelers

In March 2025, an English-speaking departure of the Mizukaze will be offered, allowing non-Japanese-speaking travelers to fully enjoy this extraordinary experience for the first time. The usual Japanese staff will be joined by English-speaking personnel to make this adventure even more accessible.

Discovery Trains, one of the few European agencies offering this opportunity, allows travelers to discover an authentic Japan through a luxurious and unforgettable journey aboard the Twilight Express Mizukaze.

The train's panoramic carriage © CG