Kyushu 'cruise train' full steam ahead despite high fares

Wealthy travelers from Japan and abroad are continuing to flock to Kyushu Railway Co.'s luxury "cruise train," prompting other railways to offer similar tours to overcome a stagnant commuter market.Kyushu Railway, better known as JR Kyushu, launched Seven Stars in Kyushu, which does a loop around the island, in October 2013.

Starting and finishing at Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture, the sightseeing train comprises seven coaches with 14 suites along with a lounge car and dining car. Each journey is limited to just 30 passengers.The suites are furnished with high-quality wood and fabrics and decorations include ceramic pieces by the late Arita porcelain master Sakaida Kakiemon XIV.

Eyebrows were raised when the company announced at the launch that fares would reach a maximum of ¥1.1 million ($9,200) per couple for a four-day trip, but applications have continued to flood JR Kyushu, even though it later raised fares to a maximum ¥1.5 million.Earlier this month, the railway said it will raise fares during its peak season in April and May to a maximum of ¥1.7 million per couple.

For trips between October and next February, applications exceed capacity by a ratio of 33 to 1, and rides on the train are allocated by lot. Reflecting the cruise train’s popularity, repeat passengers accounted for 27 percent of all applications, according to JR Kyushu.