The Twilight Express Overnight Train
Previous Overnight service from Osaka to Sapporo
The Twilight Express train was a very famous overnight train between Osaka and Sapporo.
It was in operation between 1989 and 2015. Here is a few points about this historical japan train.
The Twilight Express started at Osaka Sation, departing at 11:50 am, and arrived in Sapporo (Hokkaido) around 9:52 am-- yes, it took 22 hours!).
Along the way, the train makes stoped in Kyoto, Tsuruga, Fukui, Kanazawa, Toyama, and many other stations along the northern coast of mainland Japan.
In the morning, once the train reached Hokkaido, it stoped in Toya, Higashi-Muroran, Noboribetsu, and Minami-Chitose before reaching Sapporo.
Along the way, the train makes stoped in Kyoto, Tsuruga, Fukui, Kanazawa, Toyama, and many other stations along the northern coast of mainland Japan.
In the morning, once the train reached Hokkaido, it stoped in Toya, Higashi-Muroran, Noboribetsu, and Minami-Chitose before reaching Sapporo.
There were a wide variety of accommodations on the Twilight Express. The nicest was the Suite, equipped like a nice hotel room, with a TV, alarm clock, shower and toilet, a fridge, towels, and beverages.
The Royal accommodation option was similar, but did not include the stunning panoramic views that the Suites offer. Twin and Single Twin rooms included beds but no in-room bathrooms or other amenities.
Berths had beds but were shared with three other people. The "nobinobi" carpeted floor with futon option was the cheapest accommodation, which didn't require extra fees if you had a Japan Rail Pass.