Flying ANA First Class on the Boeing 777-300ER from Tokyo to Chicago was a dream come true. From the exclusive Suite Lounge to spacious seats, gourmet dining, and personalized service, this once-in-a-lifetime experience showed why ANA is among the world’s best airlines.

The Shikoku Tosa Toki no Yoake no Monogatari is one of Japan’s luxurious sightseeing trains, blending history, scenery, and hospitality. With themed cars, scenic stops at Awa and Susaki, local performances, and regional snacks, this journey from Kochi to Kubokawa felt both cultural and unforgettable.

The Ai Yoshinogawa Trolley Train offers open-air views of Tokushima’s rivers, mountains, and countryside. With onboard commentary, a student welcome at Sadamitsu, and a delicious Awaodori chicken bento, this charming two-and-a-half-hour ride to Awa-Ikeda is a unique way to experience rural Shikoku.

After a scenic train ride from Geibikei Gorge, I spent the day wandering through Hiraizumi’s timeless temples. From the golden glow of Chusonji’s Konjikidō Hall to the cliffside beauty of Takkoku-no-Iwaya and the tranquil pond at Motsuji Temple, it was a slow, peaceful journey through Japan’s ancient past.

Drawn by the legendary cedar-lined path to Togakushi’s upper shrine, I explored the sacred sites linked to Japan’s Sun Goddess myth. From serene Mirror Lake to centuries-old cedar trees, the hike between Togakushi’s three shrines offered both natural beauty and heartfelt encounters in the mountains of Nagano.

Chureito Pagoda, perched on Mount Arakura, offers one of the most photographed views of Mount Fuji. Climb 398 steps from Arakura Sengen Shrine to the five-story pagoda and enjoy seasonal beauty, from cherry blossoms in spring to autumn foliage. A short walk from Shimoyoshida Station makes it an easy, unforgettable excursion.

Ride the SL Fuyu-no-Shitsugen steam train through Hokkaido’s snowy wilderness. From spotting red-crowned cranes to tasting Shibecha’s famous dairy, this scenic winter journey is a must for train and nature lovers alike.

A quiet winter journey on the Abashiri–Shiretoko-Shari sightseeing train offers stunning coastal views of Hokkaido’s Sea of Okhotsk and Shiretoko mountains—a serene alternative to drift-ice cruises.