Sightseeing trains in Tohoku and Kanto offer some of Japan’s most varied rail experiences, from dramatic coastal journeys in northern Honshu to family-friendly themed trains, luxury resort trains and steam locomotives within easy reach of Tokyo.
Tohoku is particularly strong for JR sightseeing trains that highlight local scenery and culture, while Kanto offers several premium and historic trains that can be incorporated into day trips or short overnight journeys from Tokyo.
Best Sightseeing Trains in Tohoku & Kanto
Resort Shirakami → POKÉMON with YOU → Hinabi → SATONO → SAPHIR ODORIKO → SPACIA X → SL Taiju
This guide covers scenery, family-friendly trains, luxury rail travel, reservation requirements and rail-pass coverage.
Tohoku & Kanto Sightseeing Trains at a Glance
| Train | Region | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Resort Shirakami | Tohoku | Sea of Japan scenery and long scenic journeys |
| POKÉMON with YOU Train | Tohoku | Families and children |
| Hinabi | Tohoku | Northern Tohoku scenery and slower regional travel |
| SATONO | Tohoku | Southern Tohoku culture and countryside |
| SAPHIR ODORIKO | Kanto / Izu | Luxury coastal rail travel from Tokyo |
| SPACIA X | Kanto | Nikko and Kinugawa in premium comfort |
| SL Taiju | Kanto | Steam-train experience near Nikko |
Many Services Operate Only on Selected Days
Sightseeing-train schedules can change throughout the year, especially in Tohoku. Check the current operating calendar before arranging hotels or other reservations around a particular train.
1. Resort Shirakami — Sea of Japan & Shirakami Mountains
Resort Shirakami is one of Japan’s classic sightseeing trains and our top rail experience in Tohoku.
The train travels along the scenic Gono Line between the Akita and Aomori areas, passing the Sea of Japan, the foothills of the Shirakami Mountains and small coastal communities that many visitors would otherwise never see.
Why Ride Resort Shirakami?
- Spectacular Sea of Japan coastal scenery
- Views toward the UNESCO-listed Shirakami Mountains
- Large windows and observation areas
- Three distinctive trainsets: Buna, Aoike and Kumagera
- Regional performances on selected journeys
- Easy to incorporate into a northern Japan rail itinerary
Best for Travelers Who Enjoy the Journey
Resort Shirakami is not the fastest way to travel between Akita and Aomori. That is exactly the point.
Choose this route when you have time to make the railway journey itself one of the highlights of your Tohoku trip.
Resort Shirakami Routes and Trainsets
Main Routes
Current Resort Shirakami services operate between:
- Akita ↔ Aomori
- Akita ↔ Hirosaki
The train uses the Gono Line for the scenic central part of the journey.
Buna, Aoike and Kumagera
Resort Shirakami is not a single trainset. Three differently designed formations — Buna, Aoike and Kumagera — are used on the service.
The exact formation depends on the departure, so check the operating schedule if riding a particular trainset is important to you.
Box Seats
Some formations include spacious box-style seating in addition to conventional reserved seats.
These can be especially appealing to families and small groups who want to sit together while enjoying the scenery.
Resort Shirakami Tickets and Reservations
All Seats Are Reserved
Resort Shirakami is an all-reserved train. You need the applicable basic fare or rail pass plus a reserved-seat ticket before boarding.
JR East does not sell the required reservation onboard, so arrange your seat before departure.
How to Reserve
Reservations can be made through JR-EAST Train Reservation or at participating JR ticket offices and reserved-seat ticket machines.
Reserved seats normally go on sale from 10:00 a.m. Japan time one month before the travel date.
Japan Rail Pass and JR East Passes
Travelers holding an eligible Japan Rail Pass or JR East rail pass that covers the route can currently reserve an ordinary seat without an additional reservation charge.
Always check that your particular rail pass covers the complete section you intend to ride.
Reserve Early for Scenic Seasons
Autumn foliage, Japanese holiday periods and popular weekend departures can fill quickly. If Resort Shirakami is a priority, reserve as soon as your booking window opens.
2. POKÉMON with YOU Train — Best Tohoku Train for Families
POKÉMON with YOU Train is one of Japan’s most family-friendly sightseeing trains, with Pikachu-themed seating, colorful interiors and a dedicated playroom car.
Originally closely associated with the route toward Kesennuma, the train now appears on several selected Tohoku routes, giving families more ways to include it in a northern Japan itinerary.
Why Kids Love It
- Pikachu-themed reserved seats
- Pokémon decorations throughout the train
- Dedicated playroom in Car 2
- Large Pikachu figure onboard
- Pokémon-themed stations and photo opportunities on selected routes
- A fun way to turn a regional train journey into an attraction
Not Just for Very Young Children
The train is clearly designed with families in mind, but Pokémon fans of all ages can enjoy the themed interior and unusual rail experience.
Where Does POKÉMON with YOU Train Run?
JR East currently operates the train on different Tohoku routes on selected dates rather than following one permanent daily route.
| Service | Route |
|---|---|
| Kesennuma Service | Ichinoseki ↔ Kesennuma |
| Miyako Service | Morioka ↔ Miyako |
| Kamaishi Service | Hanamaki ↔ Kamaishi |
Check Your Travel Date Before Choosing a Route
The three route patterns do not operate every day. The route available to you depends on JR East’s operating calendar for your travel date.
Check the current schedule first, then build the surrounding Tohoku itinerary around the confirmed train.
POKÉMON with YOU Tickets and Reservations
All Seats Are Reserved
POKÉMON with YOU Train is an all-reserved service. You need a basic-fare ticket or eligible rail pass plus a reserved-seat ticket.
Advance purchase is required.
When Do Reservations Open?
Reserved seats currently go on sale at 10:00 a.m. Japan time one month before departure.
Reservations can be made through JR-EAST Train Reservation as well as eligible JR ticket offices and ticket machines.
Using a Japan Rail Pass or JR East Pass
An eligible Japan Rail Pass or JR East pass covering the route can be used for the journey, with the required reserved seat obtained without an additional reservation charge under the current rules.
Because the train has limited capacity, having a rail pass does not guarantee that a seat will be available.
Book Early During School Holidays
This is one of the trains in this guide where advance planning matters most. Family-oriented services can be particularly popular during weekends and Japanese school-holiday periods.
3. Hinabi — Slow Travel Through Northern Tohoku
Hinabi is one of JR East’s newer sightseeing trains, designed for slower, more relaxed journeys through northern Tohoku.
The train operates on selected routes in Iwate and Aomori, passing rural landscapes, mountains, coastline and communities that are easy to miss when traveling only by Shinkansen.
Why Ride Hinabi?
- Large windows for seasonal scenery
- Observation spaces in both cars
- Green Car box seating for groups
- Ordinary reserved reclining seats
- Routes through Iwate and Aomori
- Local food available by advance mobile order on selected services
Best for Travelers Exploring Beyond the Shinkansen
Hinabi works best if your itinerary already includes places such as Morioka, Hanamaki, Tono, Kamaishi, Miyako or northern Aomori.
Rather than making a special round trip only for the train, use it to turn part of a regional Tohoku journey into a sightseeing experience.
Where Does Hinabi Run?
Hinabi does not follow one permanent daily route. JR East currently uses the train on several route patterns on selected operating dates.
| Route | Good For |
|---|---|
| Morioka → Hanamaki → Kamaishi | Tono, Kamaishi and the scenic Kamaishi Line |
| Morioka → Miyako | Sanriku coast access |
| Hachinohe → Ominato | Northern Aomori and Shimokita Peninsula |
Check the Operating Calendar First
Hinabi’s route depends on the travel date, so confirm the current operating calendar before building the surrounding itinerary.
Hinabi Seats and Reservations
Car 1 — Green Car
Car 1 uses Green Car reserved seating, with two-person and four-person box seats plus an observation area.
This is the better choice for families or small groups who want more space and a more social seating arrangement.
Car 2 — Ordinary Reserved Seating
Car 2 uses two-person reclining seats and also includes an observation area with large side windows.
This is the simpler and less expensive option for most travelers.
All Seats Are Reserved
Hinabi is currently an all-reserved train. Purchase the appropriate reserved-seat ticket or Green Car ticket before boarding.
When Do Reservations Open?
Tickets currently go on sale from 10:00 a.m. Japan time one month before travel.
Reservations are available through JR ticket offices, reserved-seat ticket machines and Eki-net.
Local Food
On selected Hinabi Kamaishi services, regional food can be ordered in advance through JR East’s mobile-order service and collected during the journey.
4. SATONO — Scenic Rail Travel Through Southern Tohoku
SATONO is JR East’s sightseeing train for southern Tohoku, linking destinations in Fukushima, Miyagi and Yamagata on selected operating days.
The train emphasizes a slower regional experience, combining large windows, comfortable seating, local food and routes through some of southern Tohoku’s most attractive countryside.
Why Ride SATONO?
- Routes through Fukushima, Miyagi and Yamagata
- Green Car box seating
- Ordinary reclining seats with large windows
- Regional food and drinks available by advance order
- Good access to Aizu, Yamagata and the Miyagi coast
- Easy to combine with a southern Tohoku itinerary
Best for Food, Culture and Regional Scenery
SATONO is less about one dramatic landmark and more about experiencing southern Tohoku at a relaxed pace.
It works especially well for travelers who want to combine train travel with destinations such as Aizu, Yamagata or the Miyagi coast.
Where Does SATONO Run?
| Route | Good For |
|---|---|
| Koriyama ↔ Kitakata | Aizu-Wakamatsu, Inawashiro and western Fukushima |
| Sendai ↔ Yamagata | Yamagata city and nearby attractions |
| Sendai ↔ Onagawa | Ishinomaki and the Miyagi coast |
Aizu SATONO Is Especially Useful
The Koriyama–Kitakata route passes through Aizu-Wakamatsu and gives travelers a convenient way to combine the sightseeing train with one of Fukushima’s most interesting historic regions.
SATONO Seats, Food and Reservations
Car 1 — Green Car
Car 1 currently has 25 Green Car seats, mainly arranged in box seating with tables designed to make it easy to enjoy meals during the journey.
Car 2 — Ordinary Reserved Seats
Car 2 currently has 34 reclining seats with large windows for enjoying the scenery along the route.
Regional Food
SATONO offers regional meals, local dishes and drinks through JR East’s advance-order service.
These products must be ordered ahead of time; JR East currently does not offer same-day onboard sales for these preordered items.
| Seat Type | Current Seat Charge* |
|---|---|
| Car 1 Green Car | ¥2,000 |
| Car 2 Ordinary Reserved Seat | ¥840 |
Reserve Before Boarding
Both cars use reserved seating. Tickets are currently sold through JR reserved-seat ticket machines, Midori-no-Madoguchi counters, Eki-net and participating travel agencies.
5. SAPHIR ODORIKO — Luxury Coastal Train from Tokyo to Izu
SAPHIR ODORIKO is JR East’s premium limited express for travel from the Tokyo area to the Izu Peninsula.
The train combines spacious Green Car seating, private compartments, panoramic windows and onboard dining with a route toward Atami, Ito and Izukyu-Shimoda.
Why Ride SAPHIR ODORIKO?
- Premium rail experience from Tokyo toward Izu
- All cars are Green Car or better
- Premium Green seating in Car 1
- Private compartments for groups and families
- Dedicated cafeteria in Car 4
- Coastal scenery approaching the Izu Peninsula
- Easy to combine with an Atami, Ito or Shimoda stay
Best as Part of an Izu Trip
SAPHIR ODORIKO is most worthwhile when you are already planning to visit the Izu Peninsula.
Instead of taking an ordinary limited express, use SAPHIR ODORIKO to turn the journey from Tokyo into part of the vacation.
SAPHIR ODORIKO Seats and Private Compartments
Premium Green — Car 1
Premium Green is the train’s highest individual seating class, with a spacious 1+1 arrangement designed for privacy and comfort.
Green Car Private Compartments — Cars 2 and 3
Private compartments are available for groups of up to four or six people.
These can be particularly attractive for families or groups who want to travel together in a private space rather than occupy several individual seats.
Green Car — Cars 5 to 8
The remaining passenger cars use spacious Green Car reserved seating, providing a simpler and less expensive way to experience the train.
Current Tokyo–Izukyu-Shimoda Example Fares
During the standard pricing period, current adult fares including the applicable fare and charges are approximately:
- Green Car: ¥10,540
- Premium Green: ¥12,940
Private-compartment pricing depends on the compartment size and number of passengers, and seasonal limited-express pricing can also change the final fare.
SAPHIR ODORIKO Cafeteria and Reservations
Car 4 Cafeteria
SAPHIR ODORIKO has a dedicated cafeteria serving light meals and drinks.
Main menu items can be ordered in advance through the SAPHIR Pay service, subject to availability.
How to Reserve
Premium Green and ordinary Green Car seats can currently be reserved through JR-EAST Train Reservation, JR reserved-seat ticket machines and Midori-no-Madoguchi ticket offices.
Green Car private compartments are currently sold through JR reserved-seat ticket machines and JR ticket offices rather than JR-EAST Train Reservation.
Book Early for Private Compartments
The private compartments are limited in number, so reserve early if they are an important part of your trip, especially during weekends and busy travel periods.
6. SPACIA X — Premium Train from Asakusa to Nikko
SPACIA X is Tobu Railway’s flagship limited express connecting Asakusa with Nikko and, on selected services, Kinugawa Onsen.
Introduced as a modern successor to the classic SPACIA, the train combines distinctive Japanese-inspired design with several seating styles and an onboard café.
Why Ride SPACIA X?
- Direct premium train from Asakusa to Nikko
- Standard and Premium Seats
- Cockpit Lounge with panoramic forward views
- Private compartments
- Cockpit Suite for larger groups
- Onboard café with regional products
- Easy to combine with a Nikko day trip or overnight stay
Our Pick for Getting to Nikko in Style
If you are already planning to travel from Tokyo to Nikko, SPACIA X is an easy way to make the transportation itself part of the experience.
It is particularly convenient for travelers staying around Asakusa or eastern Tokyo.
SPACIA X Seating Options
| Seat Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Standard Seat | Most travelers and best value |
| Premium Seat | More space and comfort |
| Cockpit Lounge | Panoramic atmosphere and easy café access |
| Box Seat | Two travelers wanting semi-private seating |
| Compartment | Families and groups of up to four |
| Cockpit Suite | Groups of up to seven seeking the premium experience |
Current Special-Seat Supplements
In addition to the normal fare and applicable Standard Seat limited express charge, current special-seat supplements include:
- Box Seat: ¥400 per section
- Compartment: ¥8,000 per room
- Cockpit Suite: ¥18,000 per room
- Cockpit Lounge: ¥500–¥2,000 depending on seating configuration
SPACIA X Café and Reservations
GOEN CAFÉ SPACIA X
The café counter is located inside the Cockpit Lounge in Car 1 and focuses on products from the Nikko and Tobu Railway region.
Current signature items include an original SPACIA X coffee blend, craft beer and locally inspired snacks and drinks.
Café Access Depends on Your Seat
Passengers in the Cockpit Lounge, Cockpit Suite and Compartments receive priority café access under the current system.
Passengers in Cars 2–5 generally need an online numbered ticket before visiting the café counter and use the café primarily for takeout.
Reservations
SPACIA X limited express tickets and special seating can be purchased through Tobu Railway’s reservation channels.
Premium and special seating has limited capacity, so book in advance if a particular seat type is important to you.
Japan Rail Pass Is Not Valid
SPACIA X is operated by Tobu Railway rather than JR, so the nationwide Japan Rail Pass does not cover the train.
Tobu offers its own Nikko-area discount passes, but the SPACIA X limited express and special-seat charges may still need to be purchased separately depending on the pass.
7. SL Taiju — Steam Train Through Nikko & Kinugawa
SL Taiju is Tobu Railway’s historic steam-train experience in the Nikko and Kinugawa Onsen area, making it one of the easiest steam locomotive journeys to combine with a trip from Tokyo.
Most services run between Shimo-imaichi and Kinugawa Onsen, while selected SL Taiju Futara services also operate to and from Tobu-Nikko.
Why Ride SL Taiju?
- Historic steam-locomotive experience
- Easy to combine with Nikko sightseeing
- Access to Kinugawa Onsen
- Railway turntables at Shimo-imaichi and Kinugawa Onsen
- Good choice for families and railway enthusiasts
- Easy connection with Tobu trains from Asakusa
Best as Part of a Nikko or Kinugawa Trip
SL Taiju is not a direct steam train from Tokyo. Travel from Asakusa toward the Nikko area first, then incorporate the steam train into your sightseeing around Shimo-imaichi, Tobu-Nikko or Kinugawa Onsen.
This makes it especially suitable for a Nikko overnight trip rather than riding the train purely as a separate excursion.
Where Does SL Taiju Run?
Shimo-imaichi ↔ Kinugawa Onsen
This is the main SL Taiju route, with trains also stopping at Tobu World Square Station.
The journey is relatively short, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing on the same day.
SL Taiju Futara
On selected operating days, SL Taiju Futara connects Tobu-Nikko with Shimo-imaichi and can continue toward Kinugawa Onsen.
This variation can be particularly useful if your itinerary already includes Nikko’s temples and shrines.
Not Every Service Uses a Steam Locomotive
Tobu also operates DL Taiju services using a diesel locomotive. Check the operating calendar carefully if riding behind a steam locomotive is the main reason for your trip.
SL Taiju Tickets and Reservations
| Route | Current Adult SL Seat Charge |
|---|---|
| Shimo-imaichi ↔ Kinugawa Onsen | ¥1,000 |
| Shimo-imaichi ↔ Tobu-Nikko | ¥1,000 |
| Tobu-Nikko ↔ Kinugawa Onsen | ¥1,150 |
The applicable basic railway fare is required in addition to the SL seat-reservation charge.
All Seats Are Reserved
You need an SL seat-reservation ticket before boarding. Reservations currently open at 9:00 a.m. Japan time one month before travel.
Online Booking
Tobu currently allows SL Taiju seat reservations and purchases online, including choosing a seat from the seating chart.
Tickets can also be purchased at eligible Tobu stations and through participating travel agencies.
Nikko Pass
Eligible Tobu Nikko-area passes can cover the applicable basic railway fare within their coverage area, but the SL seat-reservation ticket still needs to be purchased separately.
Japan Rail Pass Is Not Valid
SL Taiju is operated by Tobu Railway rather than JR, so the nationwide Japan Rail Pass does not cover the train.
Which Tohoku & Kanto Sightseeing Train Should You Choose?
| Train | Our Pick For | Best Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Resort Shirakami | Scenery and longer rail journeys | Sea of Japan and Shirakami Mountains |
| POKÉMON with YOU Train | Families | Pokémon-themed train and playroom |
| Hinabi | Exploring northern Tohoku | Regional routes and observation spaces |
| SATONO | Food, culture and southern Tohoku | Regional experiences and comfortable seating |
| SAPHIR ODORIKO | Luxury travel from Tokyo | Premium Green seating and Izu scenery |
| SPACIA X | Nikko in premium comfort | Six seating styles and onboard café |
| SL Taiju | Steam-train fans and families | Historic railway experience near Nikko |
Our Overall Picks
For pure scenery, choose Resort Shirakami. For families with younger children, POKÉMON with YOU is the standout choice.
From Tokyo, choose SAPHIR ODORIKO for a luxury coastal journey, SPACIA X for Nikko, or SL Taiju for a steam-train experience.
Can You Use a JR Pass on These Sightseeing Trains?
Pass coverage varies considerably between the JR-operated Tohoku trains and the private-railway services in Kanto.
| Train | Operator | Rail Pass Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Resort Shirakami | JR East | Eligible JR passes can cover ordinary reserved seating within the pass area. |
| POKÉMON with YOU | JR East | Eligible JR passes can cover the journey and reserved seat within the pass area. |
| Hinabi | JR East | Ordinary reserved seating can be covered by an eligible pass. Green Car seating may require additional charges depending on the pass. |
| SATONO | JR East | Ordinary reserved seating can be covered by an eligible pass. Green Car seating may require additional charges. |
| SAPHIR ODORIKO | JR East / Izukyu | Extra charges apply because the train has only Green Car or higher accommodation and also uses the private Izukyu Line. |
| SPACIA X | Tobu Railway | Not covered by the nationwide Japan Rail Pass. |
| SL Taiju | Tobu Railway | Not covered by the nationwide Japan Rail Pass. |
Current JR EAST PASS
Since March 2026, JR East has replaced its former separate Tohoku and Nagano-Niigata passes with a broader JR EAST PASS.
The current pass costs ¥35,000 for 5 days or ¥50,000 for 10 days for adults and covers ordinary reserved seating on JR East trains within the eligible area, together with several partner railway lines.
Green Cars Need Extra Attention
The standard JR EAST PASS covers ordinary reserved seating. If you choose Green Car, Premium Green, private compartments or other premium accommodation, additional charges may apply.
This is particularly important for SAPHIR ODORIKO, which has no ordinary-class cars.
Booking Tips for Tohoku & Kanto Sightseeing Trains
Check the Operating Calendar First
Resort Shirakami, POKÉMON with YOU, Hinabi, SATONO and SL Taiju do not simply run on the same timetable every day throughout the year.
Confirm your train and operating date before arranging hotels or other fixed reservations around it.
Start Looking One Month Before Travel
Many JR reserved-seat trains open reservations at 10:00 a.m. Japan time one month before the travel date.
Popular Joyful Trains can fill quickly during weekends, Japanese holidays and peak sightseeing seasons.
Use JR-EAST Train Reservation for JR Services
Resort Shirakami, POKÉMON with YOU and many other JR East sightseeing trains can currently be booked through JR-EAST Train Reservation.
Private Railway Trains Use Separate Systems
SPACIA X and SL Taiju are Tobu Railway services, so use Tobu’s reservation system rather than JR East’s.
Premium Rooms Sell Faster
SAPHIR ODORIKO private compartments and the special seating on SPACIA X are limited in number.
If a particular room or seating style is part of the experience you want, book that first rather than assuming it will be available later.
Build the Day Around the Train
If a sightseeing train is one of the highlights of your trip, secure the train reservation first and then arrange the surrounding sightseeing.
Tohoku & Kanto Sightseeing Train FAQ
What is the best sightseeing train in Tohoku?
Resort Shirakami is our overall pick because of its long journey along the Sea of Japan and through the Shirakami region.
What is the best sightseeing train for children?
POKÉMON with YOU is the most family-oriented train in this guide, featuring Pikachu-themed reserved seating and a dedicated playroom.
What is the best luxury train from Tokyo?
SAPHIR ODORIKO is our choice for a premium journey toward the Izu Peninsula, while SPACIA X is excellent for travelers heading to Nikko.
Can I take a sightseeing train on a day trip from Tokyo?
Yes. SPACIA X works particularly well for a Nikko day trip. SAPHIR ODORIKO can also be used for destinations such as Atami and Ito, although an overnight stay farther down the Izu Peninsula is often more relaxing.
Which train is best for a steam-locomotive experience?
SL Taiju is the easiest choice to combine with a Tokyo-based itinerary because it operates in the Nikko and Kinugawa Onsen area.
Does the JR EAST PASS cover Joyful Trains?
Eligible JR East Joyful Trains can generally be ridden in ordinary reserved seating when the route falls within the pass coverage area. A seat reservation is still required.
Green Car and other premium seating may require an additional charge.
Does the Japan Rail Pass cover SPACIA X or SL Taiju?
No. Both are operated by Tobu Railway rather than JR and require separate Tobu tickets.
How far in advance should I reserve?
Start checking about one month before travel. For popular trains, family-oriented services or premium compartments, booking as soon as reservations open is the safest approach.
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Check Current JR Pass PricesAbout Train Travel Japan
Train Travel Japan is written from firsthand experience traveling throughout Japan by rail. I am a Japanese native based in Canada and have traveled to all 47 prefectures of Japan over more than 30 years.
My goal is to make Japan train travel easier to understand, especially for international visitors planning JR Pass trips, regional rail journeys and independent itineraries.