The 10 Best Family-Friendly Train Journeys In Asia With Kids
Rail Adventures For Globetrotting Families!
Luxury train travel in Asia is undergoing a renaissance, with the rise of the “slow train” movement offering travelers ultimate relaxation and luxury on multi-day journeys. These extraordinary experiences are marked by ultra-luxurious accommodations, striking design, exquisite dining, and unparalleled service. Japan Rail has set the standard by introducing three of the world’s finest luxury trains—Shiki-Shima, Seven Stars, and Twilight Express Mizukaze—each offering a unique exploration of Japan’s landscapes and culture. Meanwhile, the Belmond company has expanded its offerings with two new luxurious journeys in Malaysia, including a route along the legendary Jungle Line, adding to the charm of Southeast Asia’s lush scenery. In India, trains remain the finest way to explore the treasures of Rajasthan, making luxury train travel a quintessential experience for discovering the rich heritage and beauty of the region.
Ready to roll? Let’s go! Choo, choo!
Main image: Belmond Eastern & Oriental Express
-
Shiki-Shima Japan
Ferrari And Porsche Designed Train TravelThe Shiki-Shima luxury train offers an unforgettable family experience, traveling between Tokyo and Hokkaido with two to four-day seasonal journeys. The Shiki-Shima embraces the slow train movement, allowing families to relax and enjoy the journey together. Designed by Ferrari and Porsche designer Ken Kiyoyuki Okyama, this train combines modern and traditional elements, providing an exclusive atmosphere with only 17 suites for up to 34 passengers. Families can choose from luxurious suites, including two-floor options with tatami mats, glass fireplaces, and traditional wooden Cyprus baths. The train’s observation cars offer floor-to-ceiling windows, perfect for taking in the scenic countryside. Dining is a highlight, with Michelin-starred chef Katsuliro Nakamura crafting meals catering to various tastes, ensuring every family member has something to enjoy.
Shiki-Shima Japan, https://www.jreast.co.jp/shiki-shima/en/
-
Twilight Express Mizukaze
Cruising Japan’s Western CoastsThe Twilight Express Mizukaze offers a family-friendly journey through Japan's stunning western coastlines, including views of the Sea of Japan and the Inland Sea. Departing from Kyoto, this luxury train provides one- or two-night trips focusing on relaxation and exploration. With only 34 passengers, families can enjoy spacious suites and exclusive access to scenic spots along the route, many of which are not usually open to the public. Onboard, the dining experience is exceptional, with gourmet meals prepared by expert chefs using local ingredients. The journey also includes stops at cultural landmarks and a visit to a traditional hot spring resort, making it an enriching experience.
Twilight Express Mizukaze, https://twilightexpress-mizukaze.jp/en/
-
Maharajas Express India
Embracing India’s World-Famed SitesThe Maharajas Express allows you to explore the highlights of Rajasthan and beyond in ultimate comfort. This luxury train provides journeys ranging from three to 10 days, making it an easy and convenient way to see India's famous sights, including the Taj Mahal, Jaipur's Amber Fort, and Ranthambore National Park. The train features spacious cabins with en-suite bathrooms, 24-hour butler service, and family-friendly dining options, including Indian and international cuisine. Families can enjoy the scenic views from large windows and participate in guided tours at each destination, all while experiencing India's rich and colorful culture and history.
Maharajas Express, https://www.luxurytrainsindia.org/maharaja-express/
-
Belmond Eastern & Oriental Express Essence Of Malaysia
Cultural ExplorationThe Essence of Malaysia journey on the Eastern & Oriental Express offers a family-friendly adventure through some of Southeast Asia's most beautiful destinations. Starting in Singapore, the train travels through lush landscapes, passing rice paddies and rural villages before stopping for exciting excursions. Families can enjoy a boat trip to Pulau Payar Marine Park for activities like snorkeling, paddle boarding, and tai chi, followed by a picnic and relaxation. The trip also includes visiting Penang Island, where families can explore Georgetown's culture or participate in a Peranakan cooking experience. With comfortable cabins, excellent dining, and fun onboard entertainment, it's a perfect way for families to explore Malaysia together.
Belmond Essence Of Malaysia, https://www.belmond.com/trains/asia/eastern-and-oriental-express/journeys/essence-of-malaysia
-
Belmond Eastern & Oriental Express Wild Malaysia
Winding Through The World’s Oldest RainforestsThe Wild Malaysia journey on the Eastern & Oriental Express takes you through Malaysia’s lush jungles and rich cultural sites. Starting in Singapore, this four-day trip takes you and your family through Taman Negara National Park, one of the world's oldest rainforests, where kids and adults alike can enjoy wildlife spotting and learn about jungle plants. The journey continues to Penang, with options for a hands-on Peranakan cooking class or a cultural tour of Georgetown. On board, families can relax in comfortable cabins and enjoy delicious meals while soaking up the beautiful scenery and learning about the magical Southeast Asian culture.
Belmond Eastern & Oriental Express Wild Malaysia, https://www.belmond.com/trains/asia/eastern-and-oriental-express/journeys/wild-malaysia
-
Seven Stars Japan
Japanese Traditions, Crafts, And CuisineA journey on the Seven Stars in Kyushu is a unique family adventure combining luxury and cultural exploration. This train takes passengers through the heart of Kyushu, stopping along the way to experience the region's rich history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. Families can enjoy comfortable suites with panoramic windows for stunning views of mountains, forests, and coastlines. Onboard, there's a lounge for relaxation, a tearoom, and a bar, while off-train excursions allow you to explore local traditions, crafts, and cuisine. Seven Stars encourages the communities along its route to plant flowers and shrubs, adding to the scenic beauty and to wave at the passing train, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for travelers.
Seven Stars Japan, https://www.cruisetrain-sevenstars.jp/english/train/
-
Shangri-La Express China
Discovering China’s Remote And Historic RegionsThe Shangri-La Express offers a comfortable and family-friendly way to explore China’s remote and historic regions. With modern accommodations, families can choose between en-suite double-bed cabins or traditional twin-bed cabins with shared facilities, ensuring everyone has space to relax. The train provides the comforts of home, including regular linen changes and complimentary tea and coffee, while the large windows offer stunning views of the Chinese countryside. Onboard, dedicated staff are available to assist with any needs, making it an ideal option for families looking to experience the beauty of China and the ancient Silk Road in a convenient and comfortable setting.
Shangri-La Express, https://www.goldeneagleluxurytrains.com/trains/shangri-la-express/
-
The Deccan Odyssey India
The Blue Limousine On Rolling WheelsThe Deccan Odyssey offers a family-friendly way to explore India's most iconic destinations in comfort and style. Known as the "Blue Limousine on Rolling Wheels," this luxury train takes families on journeys through Rajasthan, Mumbai, Agra, and other cultural hotspots. With spacious cabins, onboard dining serving a variety of cuisines, and a range of modern amenities like Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and even a spa, it's an excellent way for families to travel together. The train also features a bar and lounge, as well as games for kids, making it relaxing and fun for everyone.
The Deccan Odyssey, https://www.thedeccan-odyssey.com/
-
The Palace On Wheels India
A New Day, A New AdventureThe Palace on Wheels offers families a royal journey through Rajasthan’s most iconic cities and landmarks, with a seven-night, eight-day trip starting from New Delhi. The train's 14 fully air-conditioned saloons each have four twin-bedded chambers with attached bathrooms, making it comfortable for families to travel together. The experience includes stops at Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and the Taj Mahal, with new destinations to explore each morning. On board, families can relax in the lounge, enjoy meals in the Maharaja and Maharani restaurants, and savor various cuisines, including Indian, Continental, and Chinese. It's a unique way to experience the rich culture and history of Rajasthan in comfort and style.
The Palace On Wheels, https://www.palaceonwheelsindia.com/
-
The Vietage by Anantara Vietnam
From Lush Jungles To Coastal TownsThe Vietage by Anantara offers a luxurious and family-friendly train journey through Central Vietnam, perfect for families looking to relax and enjoy scenic views together. It's an ideal way to explore the region with comfortable private booths, gourmet dining, and special treats like a kids' menu and games to keep little ones entertained. The journey includes beautiful views of Vietnam's landscapes, from lush jungles to coastal towns, with fun stops at places like the city of lanterns, Hoi An, and Quy Nhon. Families can unwind with onboard amenities like head and shoulder treatments while enjoying delicious food and drinks throughout the trip.
The Vietage by Anantara, https://www.thevietagetrain.com/
Want More?
Sign up for the Little Steps e-newsletter!
Recommends
Got kids? Little Steps Asia gives you the scoop on all the things to do and see with babies, toddlers, and kids in Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bali, Jakarta, Macau, and beyond. From family-friendly hotels, kids and baby shops, the best schools and after school activities, pregnancy tips and meet-ups and more – we have you sorted.
Sign up to receive the free Little Steps email newsletter packed with news, offers, and hidden treasures for families.
© 2021 Little Steps Asia. All rights reserved.
