From ultra-fast bullet trains that criss-cross the country to scenic rides along the coast, Japan’s rail network has a lot to offer tourists.
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And now those planning a trip to Osaka have another option to consider as Nankai Electric Railway Co. is launching a luxury tourist train this April.
Dubbed GRAN Tenku, the train will run between Osaka’s Namba Station and Gokurakubashi Station in Koya.
The journey takes around 90 minutes, and along the way guests will be able to take in panoramic views while enjoying a seasonal menu of breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea dishes.
After disembarking at Gokurakubashi Station, travellers can then take a cable car up to Mount Kōya.
What to do in Mount Kōya
Mount Kōya forms one part of the UNESCO-listed sacred sites and pilgrimage routes in the Kii mountain range.
The area is the centre of Shingon Buddhism, which was brought to Japan by monk Kobo Daishi in the 9th century.
Here, you will find the head monastery for the sect as well as Okunoin Temple where Daishi is enshrined. The latter is also the largest cemetery in the country, with more than 200,000 graves.
There are a number of pilgrimage trails you can explore, including the Fudozaka Trail, which starts at Gokurakubashi Station and takes you to Fudozaka-guchi Nyonindo temple where you can continue on the Women Pilgrims Course to the entrance of Okunoin.
Many of the temples in Mount Kōya offer shukubo (temple lodging) to tourists, where you’ll be able to sleep on futons, try shojin ryori, the traditional vegetarian Buddhist cuisine, and even join morning prayers.
Everything you need to know about GRAN Tenku
Nankai Electric Railway Co.’s new line is set to launch on 24 April 2026, with bookings launching on 24 March.
There are two round trips per day, departing Namba station at either 9 am or 12:45 pm, and returning from Gokurakubashi at 10:46 am or 2:58 pm. Stops along the way include Shin-Imamiya, Tengachaya, Sakaihigashi, Kongō, Kawachinagano, Rinkanden-entoshi, Hashimoto and Kudoyama.
Prices start from €9.30 for a one-way ride.