Summary: We travel the Hisatsu Orange Railway from Yatsushiro in Kumamoto Prefecture to Akune in Kagoshima Prefecture. Much of the line hugs the coast, framing beautiful ocean vistas in the windows. Sea breezes nurture the regional specialty, Amanatsu citrus fruit, while billowing white sails lend traditional fishing vessels the nickname, "ladies in white dresses." One artisan crafts colorful fishing vessel banners for bountiful hauls. Meet a local culture fostered by the sea and the residents who eek their living from it.

Summary: We journey through the snowy landscapes of northern Fukui Prefecture in central Japan on the Echizen Railway. The local trains, which are a lifeline for residents, operate over a total distance of 53 kilometers and provide access to many sightseeing locations. Visit the 770-year-old Eiheiji and practice zazen meditation, sip locally brewed sake and dine on Echizen crab, as we train cruise through the natural winter wonderland of the old Echizen Province on the Sea of Japan.

Summary: We take a trip on the JR Yosan Line through the local history and culture of Ehime Prefecture. Learn modern history at a railroad museum featuring exhibits you can touch and a theme park located on the former site of a copper mine. Dive into an age-old culture at a hot spring town where Geiko entertainers delight guests. A beloved tourist train with dining cars takes us right along the sea and stops at a popular lookout. Experience Gagaku Imperial Court Music at an ancient Shinto shrine.