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IN SHORT
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Embark on an extraordinary journey aboard the Seven Stars, the most luxurious train in Japan, where luxury, serenity, and well-being intertwine to offer an unparalleled experience. For two days and one night, the island of Kyushu reveals itself in an intimate atmosphere, marked by the deliberate slowness of the train and the refinement of every detail. A true exceptional interlude reserved for a select few, the Seven Stars does much more than take its passengers from one destination to another: it invites you to a contemplative journey at the heart of Japanese culture and its magnificent landscapes.
An exceptional train for a rare experience
The Seven Stars stands out in the Japanese rail landscape, where speed and efficiency prevail with the famous Shinkansen. Here, the focus is on the quality of time, not its rapidity, inviting travelers to savor every moment of a journey that is as precious as it is rare. The train accommodates no more than twenty passengers per trip, ensuring intimacy and tranquility away from the crowds. This elite train offers carefully selected routes, departing from Hakata Station in Fukuoka and traversing the island of Kyushu, among mountains, rice fields, and natural hot springs.
The pinnacle of Japanese refinement
Inside the Seven Stars, every detail celebrates Japanese craftsmanship. Noble woods blend with polished copper finishes, creating a warm and plush atmosphere. The cabins, spacious and tastefully decorated, evoke the most elegant ryokans, those traditional inns of Japan. The common lounges encourage connection and contemplation, while panoramic windows open onto changing and spectacular views of the Japanese countryside. This discreet refinement gives the journey an almost surreal sensation, comparable to an exceptional night atop the world, much like the experience of spending a night at the summit of Pic du Midi (see this fascinating account).
Immersion in the nature and culture of Kyushu
This train offers more than superficial luxury. It provides a deep immersion into local culture, from carefully orchestrated stops to the dishes enjoyed onboard, prepared with exceptional regional ingredients. Thus, each stop becomes an opportunity to meet artisans, explore villages, or enjoy hot springs, for an experience that engages with Japanese history and tradition. This attention to detail and authenticity recalls the depth of other journeys discovering cultures around the world, such as a return to the warm city of Prague (read more here).
A privilege reserved for exceptional travelers
Gaining access to the Seven Stars remains a privilege, not only due to its high price – the basic journey starts at several thousand euros per person – but also because the train only operates a few trips each week. Since its inauguration in 2013, it has captivated an international clientele seeking refinement and exclusive experiences. Each of its journeys is an event, sometimes as coveted as a stay in a mythical destination or participating in a unique experience like a festival in Cannes reinterpreted in Paris (discover how).
Ode to slowness and contemplation
Unlike most train journeys where speed takes precedence over the landscape, the Seven Stars invites you to slow down and live in the moment. The landscapes of Kyushu pass by not as a blurred backdrop but as an open book showcasing steep mountains, ancient forests, and preserved villages. This invitation to contemplation evokes the tranquility sought by lovers of unforgettable getaways, reminiscent of a stay in the mountains of Majorca (learn more here).
Well-being on board: a unique serenity
Well-being is also at the heart of the Seven Stars experience. Far from urban turmoil, the calming rhythm of the train, the attentive service of the staff, the impeccable quality of onboard dining, and the common areas dedicated to relaxation create an atmosphere where every detail is designed for the absolute comfort of travelers. This rare combination of serenity, intimacy, and natural beauty makes each crossing an enchanted interlude, akin to the escape trips that, every summer, leave unforgettable memories in other unique settings (see also).
