A scenic steam train travels through a Japanese tea farm

When you arrive at Kawane, the mechanical clumsy of the old engine, the smell of green tea in the air and the bright forest colors greet you. Located in the heart of Shizuoka Prefecture, it feels like a glimpse of old Japan. Traditional architecture is mixed with modern hotels, and quiet quiet is often intertwined with the whistle and smoke of the steam train.

Why Traveling through Kawane provides the perfect escape from Tokyo

Kawane’s charm is as timeless as quiet. This nostalgia is widely recognized here and is introduced in media portraying old Japan, such as Legends otoko wa tsurai yo series. However, Kawane’s true signature is its endless rolling tea farm that flourishes in the warm, humid air trapped in the surrounding mountains. These are the ideal conditions for the best green tea in Japan.

Kawane invites you to continue. It won’t pass. You should taste the life here, just like tea. For those seeking a break from Tokyo’s neon craze, Kawane offers silence, space and guesthouses to invite you to stay for a while.

This is how to make the most of the weekend in Kawane, from the nostalgic train to the soothing hot springs and of course the best tea you have ever had.

Shin-kanaya Station: Arrival in Fashion

The journey begins at Shin-Kanaya Station in Shimada City in Crescent City, about 40 minutes from Shizuoka Station. From there, the walk is short and can be transferred to the Oigawa main line and Shin-Kanaya. However, while Shin-Kanaya Station is not the easiest to access, it is in Japan Toritessu (Train lover) for its fleet of steam locomotives (SL).

Built in 1939, the rolling smoke and industrially clumsy machines are the joy of enthusiasts. Wish to see many fans line up for the best angle. You will no longer bring your own camera to capture nostalgia.

Unlike bullet trains and subways that catch from location to location, the Oigawa main line invites you to slow down. No hasty announcements, no overcrowded platforms, just quiet expectation for a journey that takes place at a more thoughtful pace.

For a moment, standing on the platform, you might be in another era. You realize that the journey is as important as the destination. The sharp whistle brings you back to reality when you board the plane. The train left with a friendly wave of locals and staff. The wheels are clumsy and steady, taking you to your first destination.

All schedules are available in English and can be found on the Oigawa Tetsudo series website.

Enter the heart of the green

The train moves at a deliberate speed, its rhythmic chaos blends with the silence of the dynamic mountains. It snaked along the Oi River, cutting through the valley, adding another layer of depth to the striking central Alps.

In a typical Japanese way, there is no inch of space when climbing the side of the mountain as green tea fields ​​climb the side of the mountain. Growing tea is an art of patience. The leaves take time to soak in the mountains, just like encouraging tourists here to linger.

Encourage them to sip. Watch. And breathe. However, if you head to April in spring, the mountains are almost spots of silver and pink, spreading with wild cherry blossoms.

Whether you’re a budding photographer or someone who just admires nature, this view is a reminder that Japan is more than just neon cities and crowded trains. It’s also about the quiet patience of mountains, rivers and tea farms.

Of course, there are many steam train-themed snacks on the train, such as dolayaki and charcoal black SL ice cream.

ieyama station: nostalgic pit stop

In a short moment, the journey itself ceases. Steam trains are reinstalled, and so are their passengers. Take a short walk outside the station and you will be shocked by the direct quietness.

Stay away from the whistles and clumsy whistles of the refueling train, you’ll find small cafés offering aromatic and delicious green teas along with traditional Japanese dessert shops selling locally made snacks.

Just a few steps from Riverside Station is a small and stunning fanatic park with the tempting smell of barbecue drifting over the water. During the cherry blossom season, it is especially picturesque.

A 10-minute walk from the station is Nomori Pond, home to fireworks displays such as Kawane Big Nature and traditional festivals Bon-Corodori dance.

This is the gateway for those who long for deeper into the mountains. Buses from here will take you to Senzu and other areas.

Kawane Onsen Hotel

The end of the line: Coffee and Sassen Samsadodo

Leaving Ieyama, you’ll look at old Japan again as more green tea fields cross the windows. But when the train crosses the Oi River to your final destination, you are welcomed by the fun and surprisingly visible wave of the bathers at Kawane Hot Springs.

Contrary to the rustic charm of Old Kawane, Kawane Onsen Hotel offers a modern style of Japanese hospitality, including Japanese and Western-style rooms, private Onsen, Saunas and Grand Banquet Style restaurants. All windows leading to the hotel overlook the river and train lines, so for those who wish to stay, you can guarantee a room with views.

Both male and female bathrooms in Kawane Onsen have stunning views of the valley and train. As you soak in mineral-rich salt water, the heat penetrates into your tired muscles, you can finally stop. Outside, the train whistles in the distance, reminding you of the journey you take here.

After revitalizing the soak, you should try fresh locally grown fruits such as juicy oranges, and all dishes made with local ingredients.

Leaving Kawane, you remind you that not all Japan move at the speed of a bullet train. Some places, such as Tea Farm and Anson, exist in their own era. Sometimes, slowing down is the best way to travel.

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