One of Japan's most luxurious trains, SPACIA X, has been operating from mid-July last year to provide travellers with a new deluxe and memorable experience.

An upgraded version of SPACIA, the limited express train by Tobu Railway connects Tokyo's Asakusa district to Nikko in Tochigi prefecture, and features a unique design loved by locals for more than 30 years.

The “X” in the new name and logo not only reflect Tobu's vision of future railway travel but multiple words such as “exciting,” “excellent,” “extra,” and “experience.” Furthermore, the “X” also represents the cross of interesting people, cultures, and infinite possibilities.

Blending tradition with modern luxury and innovation, the exterior, interior, and performance have been updated whilst showcasing the essence of Edo culture throughout the design such as Kanuma Kumiko, a Tochigi woodworking technique.

Nikko is renowned for its beautiful, natural scenery and cultural heritage derived from Shinto and Buddhist traditions during the Edo period. Travellers can visit many of Nikko's attractions during a day trip from Tokyo or enjoy an extended, relaxing stay in one of the eight hot spring resort areas. 

Through the Tobu Group's commitment to environmental sustainability, SPACIA X goes beyond providing a luxurious journey – trains run on 100% renewable energy in the Nikko/Kinugawa area and use sustainable express trains aimed at reducing CO2 emissions so that culture, tradition, and nature can continue to coexist.

Various seating options are available on SPACIA X including lounge-type seats, premium and standard seats, as well as private compartments and a premium cockpit suite with plush sofas. Here is an overview of SPACIA X's cars and seating:

Car 1 – Cockpit Lounge
Inspired by Nikko's old ambassador villas and Nikko Kanaya Hotel, Japan's oldest operating hotel, the concept of this car is a “lounge outside of time.” Here, travellers can enjoy priority access to SPACIA X's coffee shop “Goen Cafe” where they can purchase food, coffee and other beverages for a satisfying journey.

 
Car 2 – Premium Seat
Equipped with wide, electric reclining seats and adjustable headrests, this car lets you seamlessly recline without disturbing the passenger behind you thanks to the back shell design. The ergonomic neck pillows give a similar vibe to the business class section of airplanes. 

 
Cars 3, 4 and 5 – Standard Seat
Whilst the seats in cars 3, 4 and 5 are considered standard, they have convenient features that make for a comfortable journey. Passengers can use the foldable tables attached to the back of the seat ahead as well as recline their seat and use an electric outlet for their devices.

Car 5 – Box Seat
The Box Seat inside Car 5 features two seats facing each other to form a semi-private space with partitions for added privacy. Travellers can relax and focus on work while enjoying the view from the window. These seats are also ideal for families with young children.

Car 6 – Compartment and Cockpit Suite
The U-shaped sofa and foldable table of the compartments can be extended into an extra wide configuration. The blue carpet and walls coloured in Kabuki-style red and brown are unique features of this car. It is perfect for couples, families and small groups who can enjoy conversations in the comfort of their own space.

Based on the concept of a “travelling suite room,” Car 6 is inspired by the cockpit of a private jet. The design of the lights resembles Nikko Toshogu Shrine's Yomeimon Gate. The most luxurious space of the whole train, the plush sofa seats and large windows of the Cockpit Suite will make for a cherished memory of your travels.

Passengers in the Compartments and Cockpit Suite of Car 6 can also enjoy priority access to SPACIA X's coffee shop “Goen Café.”

GOEN CAFE
The café counter located inside the Cockpit Lounge of Car 1 offers exclusive products produced in collaboration between SPACIA X and leading local businesses such as beer from Nikko brewing and seasonal flavoured craft coffee from Nikko Coffee.

SPACIA X Fares and Charges
The fares and charges vary depending on the seat type, length of journey, and number of people you are reserving for.

Fares and Standard Seat Limited Express Charges are required to reserve Special Seats such as the Cockpit Lounge, Box Seat, Compartment and Cockpit Suite.

For example, the cost of booking a seat in the Cockpit Lounge includes the Fare, Standard Seat Limited Express Charge as well as the Special Seat Charge.

The Special Seat Charge will depend on the number of people you're reserving for. For more information on the breakdown of pricing, visit: https://www.tobu.co.jp/spaciax/en/ticket/

Seat Reservation
Seat reservation is available from 30 days in advance. For large group and combined hotel bookings by travel agencies, Tobu Top Tours can provide assistance. Please download the booking form, complete and send it to m.watabe@thedoq.com

For Australia and New Zealand media enquiries, please contact Maki Watabe at m.watabe@thedoq.com.

 
About Tobu Railways
Tobu Railway Co., Ltd. is one of Japan's largest commuter railway networks which operates in Tokyo as well as in large portions of the surrounding prefectures. Tobu Railways is part of the Tobu Group, which is engaged in other transportation sectors such as buses and taxis, they also operate Department stores, hotels, health clubs, golf courses and theme parks, as real estate. They are the largest investor in the TOKYO SKYTREE - the tallest broadcasting tower in the world, which is the centrepiece of the large commercial development.