Tobu Spacia X スペーシア X

Published on : 05/08/2024
by : JLM

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Tobu Spacia X

A High Class journey to Nikko

The "Spacia X" was put into service in July 2023 by the private company Tobu, departing from Asakusa in Tokyo, to connect Nikko with a train with a unique design, awarded the "Blue Ribbon" grand prize in 2024, and which offers several levels of comfort according to your desires.

The private company Tobu created the "Spacia X" to run on its main line, departing from the large Asakusa Station in the heart of Tokyo to Nikko and Kinugawa-onsen in Tochigi Prefecture, very important places of tourism known for their culture, history and the many ryokans with onsens.

Spacia X-treme Design

Since Nikko has a rich history, the Spacia X wants to reflect this aspect with interior ambiances that immerse you in the atmosphere of Edo and the riches of the Tosho-gu Temple.

The beautiful all-white dress of the train recalls the white Gofun of the great shrine of Nikko. The very particular 'X' windows of the cars at the ends strongly impact the eye to indicate that the design is at the forefront of what can be done in Japanese railways. This 'X' is a novelty at Tobu while the name 'Spacia' has been the emblem of this company's fast trains for years.

Six levels of comfort

The Tobu company has decided to offer six levels of comfort for this new train.

Standard Seat, the base price, single seats in 2+2 layout, with a window for each row, a table at each place for very acceptable comfort.
Premium Seat, we move upmarket with a 2+1 layout, special features such as electronic adjustments of the seat and backrest, as well as the blind of your window. Beautiful orange fabric of the seat and gray carpet. Soft cushion in headrest, leather armrest.
Cockpit Lounge, here we completely change the atmosphere since you are in the front car (direction Nikko) just behind the driver's seat with panoramic view. Armchairs and sofas are arranged throughout the space to travel alone, in pairs or in fours, with small personal tables. The 'Bar' counter is arranged at the entrance of this car and you have free access to it with a snack offered when you have a place in this category. A hostess comes to offer you the menu shortly after departure.

The ultimate is in car 6, with the "Compartments", four closed spaces with U-shaped benches against your 'X' window and central table. Then the pinnacle with the private lounge 'Running Suite' behind the driver's seat (direction Asakusa), four armchairs and a large 3-seater sofa in a magnificent beige, hushed atmosphere like a private jet!

'Goen Café' for even more good times

Access to the "Goen Café" sales counter in car 1 is regulated for all passengers in Standard & Premium Seats. You must scan the QR code located on the seatback tablet in front of you to obtain an electronic ticket that will give you access to the Goen Café for a specific time slot. You can enjoy several kinds of drinks, some of which are specially created for the "Spacia X", beers, sakes, hot or cold coffees, fruit juices, as well as cakes, biscuits and local ice creams.
Don't forget to bring back some souvenirs for yourself or as gifts such as a fan, a small towel or a wallet marked 'Spacia X'.

Goen Cafe beverage, Spacia X (Tobu Railway)

Schedule and days of operation

The Spacia X runs daily between Asakusa and Nikko/Kinugawa-onsen.

Departures from Asakusa at 7:50, 9:00, 10:00, 12:30, 14:00 & 15:00 Thursday-Friday-Saturday and Sunday. Please note that there are fewer departures on other days of the week. In July-August, all departures are guaranteed.

From Nikko: 10:25, 11:55, 12:55 and 17:44.
From Kinugawa-onsen: 15:21 & 16:40.

Prices

Prices vary greatly depending on the level of comfort you want, knowing that the Japan Rail Pass does not work with Tobu, as it is a private company. But there is a solution for JRPass or Tokyo Wide Pass holders by leaving from JR Shinjuku Station with a JR train that interoperates with the Tobu.

For a one-way ticket Asakusa-Nikko or Kinugawa-onsen: 1940yen for Standard and 2520yen for Premium.

You will have to add 500yen for a seat in the Cockpit Lounge, 8000yen for a 'Compartment' and 18000yen for the 'Running Suite'.