SAPPORO–Hokkaido Railway Co. (JR Hokkaido) announced that its Norokko sightseeing trains will make their final runs by the end of March 2026 due to difficulties in maintaining them.
JR Hokkaido has been operating two Norokko trains, mainly during the summer season.
Composed of five cars including the engine, the Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko train was introduced in 1989 to connect Kushiro and Toro, stations separated by a distance of 27.2 kilometers.
The Furano Biei Norokko train, consisting of four cars including the engine, has serviced Asahikawa and Furano stations since 1998 along a stretch covering 54.8 km.
Passengers are treated to majestic views of the nature-rich northernmost main island. On sunny days, passengers can feel the wind coming through large windows.
Farm products, craft beers, wines and other local delicacies are offered during the ride. The service has proved popular among tourists.
But with engines manufactured at least 45 years ago and carriages more than 40 years old, JR Hokkaido explained it has become increasingly difficult to procure parts for maintenance.
After the turn of 2024, JR Hokkaido revealed its plans to cease operation of the Norokko trains in the business year ending in March 2026.
The mayors of Kushiro and other municipalities along the lines begged JR Hokkaido last June to keep the trains going.
Company president Yasuyuki Watanuki noted Dec. 18 while meeting reporters that the trains offered a chance to leisurely enjoy landscapes unique to Hokkaido “as they run through the Kushiro wetlands where cars can’t go while running through lavender fields in the Furano and Biei areas.”
But he said the company has yet to decide future plans for the sightseeing services, including whether it would operate other trains under the same names.
AloJapan.com