Complete Guide to Kintetsu Trains | HINOTORI, shimakaze, AONIYOSHI, and Ulran Symphony [Experience Report]

*This article was created for travelers planning to visit Japan, but readers in Japan may also find it useful.

Sightseeing express trains are not just trains for traveling to their destinations. They are designed so passengers can enjoy the time they spend on the train.

Many sightseeing express trains have deep ties to the regions where they run. Onboard, traditional local culture is introduced and dishes made with local ingredients are served. Such initiatives also help revitalize local tourism.

Sometimes, local residents hold events to welcome passengers at the time the train passes by. Therefore, tourist express trains can be said to bring vitality to the region.

There are also sightseeing express trains that offer different services depending on the section and time of day. One of the attractions of sightseeing limited express trains is that you can have special experiences exclusive to each section or time slot.

The interior design and services incorporate the history and culture of the local area. Experiencing beautiful scenery, local cuisine, sightseeing, interacting with local people, and experiencing history and culture in one trip is the value of riding Japan's sightseeing limited express trains.

The Kintetsu sightseeing limited express trains introduced here offer unique designs and services that bring joy and excitement to many customers both inside and outside Japan, making them an indispensable presence for sightseeing in the Nagoya ~Osaka~ Ise/Shima area.

On the Kintetsu Sightseeing Limited Express and Limited Express trains, you can slowly watch the scenery transition from urban areas to rural and mountain landscapes through large windows. Not only tourist spots, but also the towns and villages where Japanese people live, are also part of the attraction.
For example, on the section from Tsu Station to Osaka Namba Station on the "HINOTORI" route, you'll find a stretch of wide rice fields, green mountains, and houses with tiled roofs. You can enjoy scenery reminiscent of Japanese movies and anime, unlike the high-rise districts of Tokyo or Osaka.
In addition, you can also enjoy unique Ise-Shima scenery at the 'Shimakaze'.

Some sightseeing limited express trains have cars dedicated solely to food and drink.
For example, the 'Shimakaze' train connecting Osaka Namba Station to Ise-Shima has a dedicated café car. While looking out the window, you can enjoy dishes made with ingredients like Matsusaka beef along the line, as well as hotel-made sweets.

The interior design of the tourist express trains connecting each tourist spot is designed to reflect the culture along the route.

On the sightseeing limited express train 'Aoniyoshi' connecting Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto, you can experience the history and culture of Nara. The train body and interior feature patterns Image the Tenpyō pattern, which was also used as a treasure of the Shosoin, as well as purple, a color considered noble.

Not only the seats, but also the aisles and washrooms are all designed in a unified way, showing attention to detail in every detail. This train lets you experience the beauty of Nara even before you reach your destination.

Sightseeing limited express trains also feature thoughtful seating and shared spaces so you can enjoy your time inside. Since the atmosphere varies greatly depending on the train, comparing the interiors is one of the pleasures.

For example, the "Blue Symphony" features interiors reminiscent of classic hotels or Western-style houses.
The interior features deep wood grain tones and antique-style lighting, creating an elegant and calm atmosphere.

There is also a library space inside the train where you can spend time reading books about the railway routes.
Recommended for those who want to relax quietly even while on the move.

The Kintetsu sightseeing train offers different scenery throughout the year. Spring brings cherry blossoms, early summer fresh greenery, summer lush countryside, autumn Autumn foliage, winter clear air with mountains, and snowy days with white fields—the same route changes its impression with the seasons.
Changing the season of your visit allows you to discover new sights and discoveries. The appeal of the Kintetsu Sightseeing Limited Express trains is that you won't want to ride them again and again, not just once.

To ride Kintetsu sightseeing limited express trains and limited express trains, you need three types of tickets: a regular ticket, a limited express ticket, and a special car ticket specific to each train. Even when using an IC card or KINTETSU RAIL PASS, you must purchase a limited express ticket and a special car ticket separately for sightseeing limited express trains.

・ HINOTORI (Regular): Ticket or KINETSU RAIL PASS + Limited Express Ticket + HINOTORI Special Car Ticket (Regular)

・ HINOTORI (Premium): Ticket or KINETSU RAIL PASS + limited express ticket + HINOTORI special car ticket (Premium)

・ Blue Symphony: Ticket or KINETSU RAIL PASS + limited express ticket + special car ticket

・ Aoniyoshi: Train ticket or KINETSU RAIL PASS + limited express ticket + special vehicle ticket

・ Shimakaze: Ticket or KINETSU RAIL PASS + limited express ticket + Shimakaze special car ticket

The KINTETSU RAIL PASS is a digital ticket for inbound foreigners. It can also be purchased on the official Kintetsu website or through agencies like Klook.

Limited express tickets and special car tickets can be purchased online, at station counters, or from automatic ticket machines. Don't feel secure just by reserving a train or seat—be sure to prepare your ticket for the travel section as well.

Limited express tickets for sightseeing trains can be reserved from 10:30 AM (Japan time), one month before the boarding date (the same day as the previous month). The "Shimakaze," "Aoniyoshi," and "Blue Symphony" are especially popular, and depending on your preferred date or seat, they may be Full on the release date.
Once your travel dates are set, it's best to book your express ticket as early as possible.

You can bring your suitcase onto the train. The "HINOTORI" and "Shimakaze" have free lockers for large suitcases, but their number is limited. If lockers are not available, it's reassuring to check the space around your seat and luggage storage in advance.
Also, sightseeing limited express trains have relatively wide seat spacing, so you can comfortably place small luggage at your feet.

Café and Lounge cars do not require advance reservation, but available seats are limited. A line forms immediately after boarding, and you may end up arriving at your destination while waiting in line. If you want to use the ride, it is recommended to arrive as soon as possible after boarding.

While English signage is becoming more common at Japanese train stations and on trains, detailed information regarding train delays or cancellations may still only be available in Japanese. It's crucial to gather information quickly and accurately in case of cancellations or delays due to weather, accidents, or other factors. A misjudgment could necessitate changes to your travel plans.
If this is your first time visiting Japan, it's a good idea to prepare a translation app and plan your itinerary with plenty of time to spare. If you encounter any problems, show your screen to station staff or train crew members for clarification.

After reading this far, some of you may be thinking, "I'd like to ride the Kintetsu sightseeing limited express train, but making reservations and transfers seems difficult."

Kintetsu's sightseeing express trains are very popular, so if you want to combine your desired trains, you will need to make reservations on the ticket release date and plan your itinerary carefully.

Furthermore, there are many things you need to arrange yourself, such as purchasing train tickets and express train tickets, booking hotels, and transportation to tourist destinations.
For those traveling to Japan for the first time, or those who want to ride multiple trains within a limited timeframe, tours are a convenient option.

With tours, travel agencies have already reserved Reserved seating for sightseeing express trains, so you don't need to check release dates and make reservations yourself. Hotels and transportation are also arranged together, greatly reducing the burden of preparation.

On tours with Tour conductor, you can receive guidance on necessary information such as transfers and train facilities and services, Meeting point. If there are train delays or schedule changes, they will coordinate with the railway company, so even those unfamiliar with Japanese railways can feel at ease.

The tour includes not only the sightseeing express train but also popular sightseeing spots along the route.
For example, you can take the train from the last stop at Osaka Station to Accommodation to Osaka for night sightseeing, then use the "Shimakaze" to head toward Ise-Shima the next day and enjoy sightseeing in that area—this is how you can tour the wide area all at once.

For independent travel, you need to book trains and hotels separately and check transportation from the station to the tourist spots. Since the tour is organized as a single itinerary, you can focus on enjoying sightseeing without being rushed to make reservations or transfers.

From here, we will introduce the itinerary of the Club Tourism Kintetsu sightseeing limited express train and express train transfer tour I actually participated in, along with the features of the four trains.

The tour I participated in this time was a product of Kintetsu's group company, Club Tourism!

Departing from Tokyo, the journey involves transferring between four trains: 'HINOTORI,' 'Blue Symphony,' 'Aoniyoshi,' and 'Shimakaze' over two days.
Each train has different seats, interiors, and services, allowing us to enjoy a variety of travel experiences even during short trips.

● From Tokyo Station, take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya Station.

● From Kintetsu Nagoya Station, take the limited express 'HINOTORI' to Osaka Namba Station.

● Walk and take the Osaka Metro to Osaka Abenobashi Station.

● From Osaka Abenobashi Station, take the sightseeing limited express 'Blue Symphony' to Kashihara Jingumae Station.

● From Kashihara Jingumae Station, take the Kintetsu Limited Express to Kyoto Station.

● From Kyoto Station, take the sightseeing limited express 'Aoniyoshi' to Osaka Namba Station.

● Osaka Accommodation (Dinner at your favorite restaurant)

● From Osaka Namba Station, take the sightseeing limited express 'Shimakaze' to Uji Yamada Station.

● Take a dedicated bus to Ise Jingu Shrine. Feel free to Temple visit and explore Oharai Town and Okage Yokocho.

● Take the dedicated bus to Uji Yamada Station. Take the Kintetsu Limited Express to Kintetsu Nagoya Station.

● From Nagoya Station, take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Tokyo Station.

Nagoya At the station, there was about a 50-minute transfer time, where you could buy Ekiben (railway boxed meal) and drinks. Inside the station, "HINOTORI" merchandise is also sold, allowing you to enjoy the train world even before boarding.
When the train arrived at the platform, many people were seen taking commemorative photos in front of the train body.

A distinctive feature inside the train is its large windows that extend up to the ceiling. The view is wide, and you can enjoy views of the countryside and mountains on the way from Nagoya to Osaka from the open interior.
Compared to typical sightseeing express trains, the distance to the scenery feels closer.

The seats have footrests, allowing you to remove your shoes for use. There is ample space between the front and back, making it comfortable to change posture even during long periods.
While eating the lunch I brought and enjoying the view, I arrived at Osaka Namba.

Among the four trains I rode this time, this one stands out for its particularly comfortable seats. With back-shell seats, you can recline fully without worrying about moving backward, and the seats are designed for comfort, allowing you to enjoy both travel and relaxation.

The next car I rode was the "Blue Symphony," characterized by its deep-toned body and classic interior.
With wood-grain walls and antique-style lighting, you can enjoy a classic hotel-like atmosphere from the moment you board the train. Spending time on the calm train will create a special time unlike any other. At night, you can enjoy a more romantic atmosphere.

The seats aren't large reclining seats like the 'HINOTORI,' but the aisle and deck have a unified design. You can enjoy admiring the interior decorations and taking photos while spending time.

In the Lounge space in Car 2, you can purchase drinks, sweets, and products along the train, and enjoy the view from the large windows.
It's extremely popular and sometimes has lines, so if you want to use it, it's best to arrive early.

The scenery outside the train window mainly consists of towns and rural landscapes typical of conventional railway lines, but grape cultivation and wine production are thriving along this route, and you can see many agricultural greenhouses used for growing grapes.

The last train I rode at the end of Day 1, the "Aoniyoshi," is a sightseeing limited express train connecting Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto.
It features spacious twin seats based on a single + one row layout, with wide spacing between adjacent seats, allowing you to enjoy conversations with family and friends while moving around.

" Aoniyoshi" is a pillow phrase placed before the word "Nara" (a pillow phrase: a cliché that adds emotion to words).

This train is Image to celebrate the beauty of the ancient city of Nara. The interior and exterior feature a Japanese-style design incorporating purple and Tenpyō patterns. The walls, ceiling, and washroom are decorated with intricate details, allowing visitors to feel Japan's history and culture.

The spacious legroom and face-to-face seats make it a great match for group travel. This is a Kintetsu sightseeing limited express train that lets you reminisce about the ancient city of Nara in a calm Japanese atmosphere, enhancing your sightseeing mood.

The 'Shimakaze' train I boarded on the Day 2 is a popular sightseeing limited express train connecting Osaka and Ise-Shima. There is a dedicated café car where you can enjoy meals and sweets while heading toward the Ise area.

A popular menu item is the "Matsusaka Beef Curry," which has been offered since the start of operations. In addition to curry made with 100% Matsusaka beef, they offer Matsusaka beef rice bowl, clam seafood pilaf, hotel-made cakes, and drinks such as vibrant blue Shimakaze soda and craft beer.

The café is a two-story building, and the wide windows on the second floor are recommended.
Next to the café, there are salon seats available for families and Traveling with friends.

This time, I boarded and went straight to the café car to line up for opening. Several people were already waiting, and Full was sure to be popular.

Upon returning to your seat, you'll find it equipped with a wide range of amenities for relaxation, including deeply reclining seats, footrests, large tables, and massage functions. Large windows extend to the sides of the seats, allowing you to enjoy the scenery even while reclined.

Q: Can I reserve all of 'HINOTORI', 'Blue Symphony', 'Aoniyoshi', and 'Shimakaze' individually?


A: Yes, you can also book individually.
Limited express tickets for sightseeing limited express trains can be reserved from 10:30 AM (Japan time) one month before the boarding date (the same day of the previous month). Once your travel dates are decided, make sure to book early on Kintetsu's official website.

Popular trains like "Shimakaze," "Aoniyoshi," and "Blue Symphony" are often Full on release day. If you want to ride your desired train, it's recommended to book as soon as it goes on sale.

All you need to ride are your ticket, limited express ticket, and special car ticket. Limited express and special car tickets can be reserved in advance, but tickets can be purchased on the day without issue.

Also, if you plan to use Kintetsu multiple times, using the KINTETSU RAIL PASS can help you save on transportation costs. However, since sightseeing limited express trains have Reserved seating seats only, you cannot board with just the rail pass. You need to purchase both the limited express ticket and the special car ticket separately.

Q: Are there any languages other than Japanese available?

A: Some menus on sightseeing express trains have English translations, but not all of them. Some menus only have Japanese translations for dish names and product descriptions.

Also, the informational materials and reading materials provided inside the train are only in Japanese. If you want to understand the content, a translation app will be helpful.

Some seat control buttons are labeled only in Japanese. While some buttons have illustrations that make their function clear, others have labels that are difficult to understand. If it's your first time using the service, it's best to ask a crew member for assistance.

Q: Can I bring a suitcase?

A: Yes, you can bring your own.
The "HINOTORI" and "Shimakaze" have free lockers for storing large suitcases. There are limited quantities, but you can use them freely if there's space.

Even if you can't use a locker, sightseeing express trains have wide seat spacing, so you can stretch out your backpack and relax comfortably.

Additionally, the deluxe seats in the "Blue Symphony" and "Shimakaze" have a 2+1 row, while the "Aoniyoshi" have a 1+1 row layout, ensuring ample space per passenger. Even on days with large luggage, you can move comfortably.

Q: Is there a restroom?

A: Yes, there is.
All four sightseeing express trains are equipped with restrooms. There are also wheelchair-accessible multi-purpose restrooms, so you can use them with peace of mind even on long journeys or when traveling with small children.

A distinctive feature of this sightseeing express train is that even the toilets and washrooms are beautifully designed. The design is consistent with the overall atmosphere of the train, creating a high-quality space reminiscent of a hotel.

In particular, the washbasins are meticulously crafted, with some trains even featuring floral-patterned ceramics. You can enjoy a special atmosphere unique to sightseeing express trains, not only in the seats but also in the toilets and corridors.

Q: Are there any unreserved seating?

A: No, there are none. All four sightseeing express trains have Reserved seating seats.

To board, you need to reserve your seat in advance.
However, some trains have shared spaces freely available.

The "Blue Symphony" features a classic Lounge, the "Aoniyoshi" has Lounge sofa seats, and the "Shimakaze" features salon seating with large windows offering views.

These spaces require no Additional fee or reservation, and anyone who is riding is free to use them.
Lounge and salon seats are on a first-come, first-served basis.

Q: Can I bring food and drinks into the train?

A: Yes, you can.
On the sightseeing limited express train, you can enjoy bento boxes, snacks, and drinks purchased at the station at your own seat.
The recommended item is the original Ekiben (railway boxed meal) inspired by sightseeing express trains. Items like "HINOTORI Bento" and "Shimakaze Bento."

These Ekiben (railway boxed meal) can be purchased at major stations such as Osaka Namba Station, Kintetsu Nagoya Station, and Kyoto Station. Some trains do not have onboard sales, so it's recommended to purchase them before boarding.

Enjoying the local Ekiben (railway boxed meal) while taking in the scenery is one of the unique pleasures of train travel in Japan.

Q: Are there smoking seats?

A: No, there is none.
All four tourist express trains have Non-smoking seats.
Also, the smoking rooms previously installed on some Kintetsu limited express trains were completely abolished as of Mar. 1, 2024. Currently, smoking is not allowed on trains.

Q: Is onboard sales available?

A: Yes, there is.
At 'Shimakaze', in addition to the café vehicles, wagon sales are also available. Even when the café is crowded, you can still buy drinks, Light meal, souvenirs, and more from your seat.

Also, limited edition goods and commemorative boarding passes may be sold for sightseeing limited express trains. Some limited-edition designs can only be purchased onboard, so if you find something you're interested in, it's best to buy it early.

Please note that the types of onboard sales vary depending on the train. "Shimakaze" has wagon sales, but "HINOTORI" does not. If you need drinks or meals, it's recommended to buy them at the station before boarding.

Q: Do I need to make a reservation in advance to use the café or Lounge cars?

A: No advance reservation is required.
However, cafe and Lounge cars are very popular, and lines can form immediately after boarding at the starting station.
On trains with a travel time of about two hours, you may arrive at your destination while waiting in line and may not be able to use the service.
If you want to use it, we recommend heading there as soon as possible after boarding.

Q: Can I use free WiFi inside the train?

A: Some sightseeing limited express trains use this service.
Free Wi-Fi is available at "HINOTORI," "Shimakaze," and "Aoniyoshi." If you want to use the internet inside the car, select "Kintetsu_Railway_Free_Wi-Fi" from the Wi-Fi network and follow the on-screen instructions to connect.

On the other hand, free Wi-Fi is not available at "Blue Symphony." If you plan to use the internet, it is recommended to prepare to have mobile data available on your smartphone.

Kansai Outside the provinces, there are also attractive sightseeing express trains throughout Japan. Each train offers different ways to enjoy the scenery, including windows, meals, and interior design.

In '25 JR Sightseeing Trains You Want to Ride at Least Once!' introduces sightseeing trains from all over Japan. Along with the Kintetsu sightseeing trains, please use this as a reference for your next trip to Japan.

The Kintetsu Sightseeing Limited Express train is a special train that you can enjoy sightseeing up to Travel time on your way to your destination. Each train has its own unique charm, such as views from large windows, unique designs from each train, and local cuisine.

You can also book individually, but popular trains may Full early. Preparing your ticket and express ticket, where to store your luggage, and timing for heading to the café or Lounge in advance will make your trip more comfortable.

On this tour, in addition to four sightseeing express trains, we were able to visit Kyoto, Osaka, Ise Jingu Shrine, Okage Yokocho, and more. If you're worried about booking or arranging transportation, or want to ride multiple trains on a short schedule, the tour is also recommended.

If you want to have a special experience different from regular trains during your trip to Japan, be sure to try riding the Kintetsu sightseeing limited express train. Travel time will also become an important memory of your trip.