Restaurant Car Gifu charter train departs Feb 17 2027 with gourmet dining
JR Central will run a one‑way charter train, the Restaurant Car Gifu, from Nagoya to Takayama on 17 February 2027. The service, part of three travel packages, starts on that date and targets tourists booking the designated overnight itineraries.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- One‑way charter train with dining, music and cultural shows
- Timing
- Service begins on 17 February 2027
- Who is affected
- Travelers booking the Restaurant Car Gifu packages
The details
- Announced by
- Central Japan Railway Company (JR Central)
- Takes effect
- 17 February 2027
- Previous rule
- Before this announcement no dedicated charter train operated on the Takayama Line for tourism purposes.
- New rule
- A special outbound charter train, the Restaurant Car Gifu, will run from Nagoya to Takayama on 17 February 2027 as part of designated travel packages.
Announcement and purpose
The initiative was announced on 30 October 2026 by JR Central together with Gifu Prefecture and the Gifu Prefecture Tourism Federation. It aims to promote regional gastronomy, cultural heritage and winter outdoor activities by linking railway travel with curated overnight itineraries.
Service details
The charter departs Nagoya Station at about 10:20 am, travels through Gifu and arrives in Takayama, operating only in the outbound direction. Onboard, passengers receive meals featuring Gifu’s local dishes, live performances by the JR Central Music Club, and a heritage presentation by a representative portraying Nōhime.
- One‑way journey, no return charter scheduled
- Live music and cultural storytelling included
- Regional cuisine served throughout the trip
Package booking and requirements
Three travel packages incorporate the charter: JTB’s Five Senses Hida Journey (starting at ¥46,800, minimum 20 travellers), Club Tourism’s Hirayu Waterfall and Shinhotaka Snow Hiking (¥69,900, minimum 25 travellers) and Club Tourism’s Deep Takayama Food and Heritage Journey (¥69,900, minimum 25 travellers). Bookings opened on 30 October 2026 and remain available until 31 January 2027, subject to participant numbers.
If the required minimum is not met, the operator may cancel the departure.
- Booking period: 30 Oct 2026 – 31 Jan 2027
- Minimum participants: 20 or 25 depending on package
- Prices start at ¥46,800 per person
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Existing bookings must align with the single outbound departure on 17 Feb 2027.
- Travelers need to arrange return transport separately, as no return charter is offered.
Cost and documents
- Package prices start at ¥46,800; no additional train ticket fee is required.
- Passengers should verify any dietary requirements with the package organiser before booking.
What you need to do
- Confirm participation before the 31 Jan 2027 booking deadline.
- Check that the chosen package meets the minimum participant threshold.
- Arrange accommodation and onward travel for the night after arrival in Takayama.
Who this affects
-
JTB Five Senses Hida Journey travellers
They book the lowest‑priced package that includes the Restaurant Car Gifu charter.
What to do Secure a reservation before 31 Jan 2027 and meet the 20‑person minimum.
-
Club Tourism winter adventure participants
Their package combines the charter with Hirayu Waterfall and Shinhotaka snow‑hiking activities.
What to do Book by 31 Jan 2027 and ensure at least 25 participants are confirmed.
-
Travelers seeking a one‑way railway experience to Takayama
The charter operates only outbound, requiring separate return arrangements.
What to do Plan alternative transport for the return leg after the 17 Feb 2027 journey.
Frequently asked questions
When does the Restaurant Car Gifu charter train run?
The charter departs Nagoya for Takayama on 17 February 2027 at approximately 10:20 am and operates only in the outbound direction.
How can I book the Restaurant Car Gifu experience?
Bookings are available through JTB and Club Tourism packages; the window runs from 30 October 2026 until 31 January 2027, subject to the required minimum number of participants.
What is included in the onboard service?
Passengers receive regional Gifu cuisine, live music by the JR Central Music Club, and a cultural presentation featuring a Nōhime representative.
Is there a return charter train after the 17 Feb 2027 journey?
No, the official programme only provides a one‑way outbound charter; travelers must arrange their own return transportation.
What are the price levels for the different packages?
The JTB Five Senses Hida Journey starts at ¥46,800 per person, while Club Tourism’s winter adventure and heritage packages are priced from ¥69,900 each.
