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Here's what it's like to ride on Japan's luxury train, where guests have private butler service and tickets cost $12,000

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Airlines such as Emirates and Cathay Pacific are known for the over-the-top perks they offer elite customers.

But train travel can be just as glamorous.

For those who prefer a luxury experience when traveling by rail, East Japan Railway Company's Train Suite Shiki-Shima is just the ticket. Fares cost between $4,200 and $12,500 per person for two- to four-day trips, and provide guests with semi-private suites, hand-crafted meals from a Michelin-starred chef, butler service and daily sightseeing excursions.

Train Suite Shiki-Shima is also highly exclusive: Only 34 passengers can ride per trip, and it's sold out through June 2018. Interested passengers can fill out an application for July through September 2018, but due high demand for seats, tickets may be awarded through a lottery.

Ready to ride in style? Here's what it's like aboard the Train Suite Shiki-Shima:

Guests are greeted by copious gold plating.

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The train is comprised of 10 cars, including a lounge car, dining car and two observation cars, so riders can take in Japan's lush scenery.

Train Suite Shiki-Shima
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With only 17 suites available, a lucky 34 customers can ride at a time.

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Even the bathrooms feel more like they belong in a five-star hotel than a cross-country train ride.

STR | AFP | Getty Images

Guests can grab a seat in the lounge car to relax, read, chat or just enjoy the passing scenery.

STR | AFP | Getty Images

In the lounge, visitors can also enjoy live music.

STR | AFP | Getty Images

The dining car features white tablecloths, low lighting and table-side service.

STR | AFP | Getty Images
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