FX.co ★ Japan has launched a "five-star" train for wealthy travelers

The Shiki-Shima, which means "island of four seasons" in a nod to the country, is the latest project from East Japan Railway Company. The train has only 10 coaches and can fit a maximum of 34 passengers, and its appearance and interiors resemble a five-star hotel.

During the trip, passengers will be able to see the most interesting corners of Japan: the Nikko pilgrim center, the highly developed Kanto district, the beautiful Tohoku center on the island of Honshu, and the island of Hokkaido.

Traveling by this train you can feel the highest level of comfort: from its champagne-gold exterior, opulent suites, Michelin-starred chefs and uniformed butlers to its futuristic observation cars, lacquerware latticework and, in one suite, an aromatic cypress wood bath.

Two cars have glass ceilings and walls so that travelers can fully enjoy the beauty of the opening landscapes.

Photo: The interiors of the Shiki-Shima train

The dining car, which serves fine cuisine from around Eastern Japan, boasts a Michelin star. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served on the train by uniformed butlers, who can also act as personal concierges.

The most expensive four-day trip from Tokyo to the island of Hokkaido is estimated at $10,000.

Nowadays, it has become popular to travel by comfortable trains. Similar elite tours can already be purchased in the US, Canada, as well as in South Africa and India. Japan can also boast such a train.