KUSHIRO, Japan (Kyodo) — JR Hokkaido’s popular sightseeing Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train made its final run Saturday through a wetland in eastern Hokkaido, with a departure ceremony held at a station on Japan’s northernmost island.
Operating since 1989, the train is ending its 37-year history due to aging rolling stock. It runs slowly between Kushiro and Toro stations, allowing passengers to enjoy close-up views of the Kushiro wetland and wildlife through large windows in observation cars.
The train’s name, Norokko, comes from the Japanese phrase “noronoro hashiru torokko ressha,” meaning “slow-moving trolley train,” as it slows down at scenic spots along the route.
Tomoaki Kito, head of JR Hokkaido’s Kushiro branch, said at the ceremony, “I was involved in designing this train about 30 years ago, but I never imagined I would witness a moment like this.”
The platform at Kushiro Station was packed with people seeing off the train, with some calling out, “Have a good trip.” A photo session is planned for next Saturday to allow people to enjoy the train until the end, the operator said.
According to JR Hokkaido, formally Hokkaido Railway Co., the train has served as a key draw for the loss-making Senmo Line, which has relatively few passengers and is considered difficult to maintain on its own, operating from spring to autumn.
Reserved-seat tickets for the final run sold out on the day they went on sale.
AloJapan.com