Looking for a weekend getaway from Tokyo? Head to Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka. The JR Tokaido local line runs through Shizuoka, as does the Shinkansen via Atami. The Limited Express Odoriko also takes you directly to Izukyu Shimoda from Tokyo station.
However, if you wish to treat yourself to upgraded comfort and luxury, Saphir Odoriko offers top-class service with elegant and streamlined interiors. The extra-special ride provides you with the most relaxing and private setting while gazing at the marvelous seacoasts of Shizuoka.
Origins of the Saphir Odoriko Luxury Train
Photo by: PIXTA/ Jun Saphir Odoriko replaced Superview Odoriko.
Saphir Odoriko launched in March 2020. The name “Saphir” comes from the blue sapphire color and jewel-like scenery of the Pacific Ocean. “Odoriko” was retained as the same name as the original Odoriko train from 1981, based on Yasunari Kawabata’s novel “Izu no Odoriko” (The Dancing Girl of Izu). The train was remodeled several times until its latest 2021 E257 series. Saphir Odoriko replaced Superview Odoriko, which operated between 1990 and 2020.
Train Features
Photo by: Alma Reyes
The train design’s mastermind, Ken Kiyoyuki Okuyama, was a designer at General Motors, Porsche and Pininfarina cars. Car 1 is the highest-ranking car. Its black and grey color scheme represents the volcanic land of Izu. Cars 2 and 3 are Green Car Private Compartments. The color ambiance is stark white for the window panels and ceiling, brown for the seats and wooden tables and blue carpeting. There are two sets of seating each, for a maximum of four people and a maximum of six people.
Photo by: PIXTA/ walk Another beautiful detail of this extraordinary train is the skylight overhead.
Car 4 belongs to the cafeteria, which consists of table settings and counter stools that all face the windows. It has an open kitchen concept and offers a menu crafted by popular chef Miyuki Igarashi. Passengers must make a prior reservation to eat at the cafeteria. Cars 5 to 8 are ordinary Green Cars with single and twin seats. The seat upholstery is light beige, and the carpet is light brown, inspired by the sandy beaches of Izu. The spacious seats have the same reclining and footrest features as the Premium Green car.
