Japan unveils ‘Gran Tenku’ sightseeing train to Mount Koya, operations to begin in April 2026

Japan’s new Gran Tenku sightseeing train will offer a premium 90-minute journey from Osaka to the UNESCO-listed Mount Koya starting April 2026.

• Gran Tenku luxury train to connect Osaka and Mount Koya in April 2026
• Train offers scenic views and premium comfort for 70 passengers
• Tickets available from March 24, 2026, advance booking advised

Did our AI summary help?

Japan’s private railway operator Nankai Electric Railway has unveiled a new luxury sightseeing train, Gran Tenku, set to connect Osaka with the sacred mountain town of Mount Koya from April 24, 2026.

Designed to transform the 90-minute journey into an experience in itself, the train will pass through nearly 20 km of scenic landscapes along the Koya Line in Wakayama Prefecture, offering views of cedar forests, rolling hills, traditional villages and 24 tunnels.

The operator shared the first look of the train’s deep red exterior on social media platform X, noting that its emblem — inspired by a compass motif symbolising direction and time — reflects the hope that journeys aboard Gran Tenku will continue to expand for travellers.

新観光列車「GRAN 天空」の外観をお披露目しました🎉

方角と時間を表すコンパスをモチーフにしたエンブレムには、GRAN 天空を通して、皆さまの旅が広がりますように……という思いを込めております。 今後も随時お知らせしてまいりますので、是非お楽しみにお待ちください！#南海電鉄pic.twitter.com/4bm1UaL60P — 南海電鉄【公式】Nankai Electric Railway (@nankai_official) February 16, 2026

A curated journey to a UNESCO-listed spiritual hub

Mount Koya, also known as Koyasan, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the 1,200-year-old centre of Shingon Buddhism. Perched about 900 metres above sea level, the mountain plateau is home to more than 100 temples and monasteries.

Key landmarks include the atmospheric Okunoin Cemetery — one of Japan’s largest cemeteries — the head temple Kongobu-ji, and the historic Danjo Garan complex. For many travellers, the journey to Koyasan is as meaningful as the destination — a sentiment the new train aims to elevate.

Mount Koya

What to expect onboard the Gran Tenku

With a deep red exterior accented in gold, the four-carriage Gran Tenku has been positioned as a premium sightseeing service rather than a standard commuter train. The total capacity is limited to 70 passengers per trip.

Carriage 1: Reclining seats for a relaxed, long-view ride.

Carriage 2: Layout focused on expansive window views.

Carriage 3: Expected to feature a lounge-style setting.

Carriage 4: Likely to include sofa seating for onboard dining.

The operator says interiors are being finalised, but the focus will remain on comfort and unobstructed views of the mountainous landscape.

Route and travel time

The train will depart from Namba Station in Osaka and terminate at Gokurakubashi Station, the final stop on the Koya Line. En route, it will halt at Namba (origin), Shin-Imamiya, Tengachaya, Sakaihigashi, Kongo, Kawachinagano, Rinkanden-entoshi, Hashimoto, Gokurakubashi (final stop).

From Gokurakubashi, visitors typically continue onward to the temple town via cable car and local transport.

Japan’s evolving scenic rail experiences

Japan is globally known for its punctual and high-speed rail systems, but in recent years, railway companies have also invested in themed and luxury sightseeing trains aimed at both domestic and international tourists. The Gran Tenku reflects that shift — positioning rail travel not just as transport, but as a curated cultural experience.

For travellers planning a 2026 Japan itinerary, the new service offers a slower, immersive alternative to high-speed routes — combining natural beauty, design-led interiors and access to one of the country’s most spiritually significant destinations.

With operations set to begin in April 2026, the Gran Tenku could become one of the most sought-after rail experiences linking Osaka to Mount Koya.