Concept cars tend to look so futuristic and progressive that they never make it into production in the shape they were showcased at car shows.
Shiki-Shima train is the concept car of trains, but somehow it managed to get approved by the East Japan Railway Company, and now anyone can book a trip on this smashingly well-designed train.
The exterior is gold coated and fitted with more holes for windows than an Emmental cheese. The direct benefit of this is the spectacular panorama from the inside.
Shiki-Shima is one of the most exclusive and luxurious trains in the world.
East Japan Railway Company - E001 Series Train
Dining car
You can enjoy live piano performances in the lounge. In the dining car, a Michelin-starred chef is cooking minimalist Japanese meals.
Two-Floor Suite with traditional tatami mats and a Cypress bath
Japan's sleeper train has 17 rooms on board, allowing a maximum of 34 passengers to experience the most luxurious ride of their life.
It's not all uber-modern here; bits and pieces of the best Japanese traditions were kept, such as the tatami mats and wooden bathtubs.
Cypress bath - wooden bathtub
You've got that right; your suite includes a bath with a bathtub and windows overlooking the passing scenery. At the main entrance, you'll find a fireplace. I'm sure that's a first, too!
Observatory Car
The best view is from the observatory cars on both ends of the train, with windows all around, including the ceiling.
The journey lasts two to four days in the northeastern part of Japan. Expect a slow ride; this is not a Shinkansen but a lifetime experience where your luxurious moving accommodation will take you through the magical lands of the country.
7 Chome Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005, Japan
