The futuristic champagne-gold Train Suite Shiki-shima, operated by East Japan Railway, has five-star lounge, dining and observatory cars and features a menu devised by a Michelin-starred chef. The 10-car train accommodates just 34 passengers in 17 suites, and the most expensive room, the Shiki-shima, costs ¥950,000 (£6,600) per person for two sharing. The train embarked on its maiden journey on 1 May and seats have already been booked up until March 2018
Train enthusiasts snap photos of the sleeper as it makes its debut at Ueno station in Tokyo before a four-day trip to north-eastern Japan
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Train Suite Shiki-shima departs
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Trainspotters watch the 10-car vehicle cross a field in Nikko, north-east of Tokyo
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A peek inside the futuristic observatory car
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All aboard: the train’s main door
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The dining car, where guests can select from a menu devised by a Michelin-starred chef
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The suite room, one of 17 on the Train Suite Shiki-shima
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Introducing the five-star Shiki-shima suite …
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... with twin beds below the dining area
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A minimalist meal served in the dining car
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A pianist entertains passengers in the lounge
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The train passes through Date, Hokkaido, with Mount Yotei in the background
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The journey to north-east Japan offers spectacular views
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