Traveling across Japan becomes extra special when you board the country’s themed trains, from ultra-modern to vintage designs. Of these trains, the etSETOra vintage train from Hiroshima to Onomichi offers an unforgettable ride. The old-fashioned train runs along the Seto Inland Sea .
The sea stretches about 450 kilometers long from east to west, separating Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu. The JR Kure line launched the etSETOra Vintage Train in October 2020. The name comes from “etcetera,” the Hiroshima dialect “ etto ” (many), and Seto for Setouchi region.
Photo by: Alma Reyes Fresh green upholstered seats inspired by the lustrous mountains along the coast. The exterior is vintage-styled, in color blue at the base and roof, which represents the blue sea, and white body reflecting the white-like ocean waves. The gold and black logo design with its intersecting letters depicts the fusion of food, customs and traditions of towns connected by a single rail line.
The train consists of only two cars. Car 1 is installed with orange-toned upholstered seats to portray the autumn feel of Miyajima . Tables, counters, and luggage storage are in dark brown wood in the image of Miyajima’s Senjokaku Pavilion.
The floor design emanates the tatami mats found in the same pavilion. You can find a bar counter in this car, serving liquor, snacks, and other distinct delicacies of the Setouchi region. Why not try the original cocktail Setouchi Blossom—a mix of Hatsukaichi City’s local craft gin Sakurao and Takehara City’s citrus fruit for that authentic Setouchi aroma.
Car 2 is decorated in fresh green upholstered seats inspired by the lustrous mountains along the coast. The floor pattern takes after the cobblestones of Onomichi. Both cars have widely allocated spaces for wheelchairs and baby strollers.
The left side of the train (when bound for Onomichi) opens to the mountain view, and the right side (which includes counter seating) to the ocean view, so you can select which seats you prefer for your desired scenery. Photo by: PIXTA/ hirohiroo An announcement guide also explains the sights along the way. Unlike the ordinary local train, which runs through the inner towns, etSETOra offers spectacular sea panoramas during the entire journey.
An announcement guide also explains the sights along the way, like the amazing patches of oyster rafts scattered on the sea. With extra reservation and fee, you can receive a box of Japanese and Western sweets on the outbound route, and a box of chocolates on the inbound route. Check the etSETOra site for the prices and reservation method.
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