"Azusa" Limited Express Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets

This article provides a comprehensive overview of JR East's "Azusa" Limited Express train, which connects Shinjuku Station with Matsumoto and Hakuba stations. It covers timetables, fares for representative routes, stations served, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. This long-established Limited Express train, operating since 1966, highlights key points to check before your trip. A Limited Express train is a type of train that makes fewer stops than a local train, allowing for faster travel between major cities. All seats are reserved, so advance seat reservations are required. Reserved seats are seats for which you need to reserve a seat number in advance. Unreserved seats are seats that do not require advance reservation. This train does not have unreserved seats.

*The timetable and fares are based on information as of March 2026.

*The information in this article is current as of July 2026. Operating days, timetables, fares, sales conditions, and purchase methods may change. Please check the latest information on Ekitan or the railway company's official website before use.

The "Azusa" is a JR East Limited Express train connecting Shinjuku Station with Matsumoto Station and Hakuba Station in Nagano Prefecture. A long-established Limited Express train that began operation in December 1966, it has seen changes in rolling stock over the years, from the 181 series, 183 series, 189 series, E351 series, and E257 series, before being standardized to the latest E353 series trains with the March 2019 timetable revision. All seats are reserved, so advance seat reservations are required. Initially, it ran two round trips a day between Shinjuku and Matsumoto, but the number of services has now increased significantly, and it has become a representative Limited Express train of the JR Chuo Line.

What is "Azusa"?

The "Azusa" is a JR East Limited Express train connecting Shinjuku Station with Matsumoto Station and Hakuba Station. It is a long-established train with a history of nearly 60 years since its launch on December 12, 1966. It is also known for the song "Azusa No. 2" by the singer Karyudo, and is one of Japan's representative Limited Express trains. Currently operated by the E353 series electric train, it features a body design inspired by the snowy landscape of the Southern Alps and the bluish-black color of Matsumoto Castle. The exterior design is based on the concept of inheriting tradition and dynamism toward the future, and is characterized by a black face with vertically positioned headlights.

Train Features and Popular Points

The appeal of the "Azusa" Limited Express lies in its convenience, offering direct access from Shinjuku to Matsumoto and Hakuba without transfers. From the train windows, vineyards unfold after passing Otsuki Station, and after Kofu Station, you can enjoy the majestic mountains of Yatsugatake and the Southern Alps, as well as the scenery of Lake Suwa near Kami-Suwa Station. The E353 series employs an air-spring type body tilting system, achieving a natural and smooth ride. The train became nationally known through the song "Azusa No. 2" by the singer Karyudo, and its name is also very well-known.

"Azusa" Limited Express Timetable

*The "Azusa" Limited Express operates more than ten round trips a day, mainly departing from and arriving at Shinjuku Station.

Downbound (towards Matsumoto/Hakuba) Timetable

*Services that operate to Hakuba Station will also run on the JR Oito Line.

Upbound (towards Shinjuku) Timetable

*This is a representative example.

The "Azusa" Limited Express operates more than ten round trips a day, mainly around Shinjuku Station. Some services terminate at Matsumoto Station, while others continue on the JR Oito Line to Hakuba Station. The stations served vary depending on the service, and all services pass through Nagasaka Station and Uenohara Station. With the 2020 timetable revision, some "Azusa" Limited Express services now stop at three stations in the Kyōtō region (Yamanashi-shi, Enzan, and Katsunuma Budokyō).

Important Information Regarding Operating Days and Days When the Service is Suspended

The "Azusa" Limited Express operates daily throughout the year. The Limited Express fare is the same year-round, without distinction between off-peak and peak seasons. However, cancellations and delays may occur due to severe weather or equipment maintenance, so it's a good idea to check the daily service information. Some sections are susceptible to the effects of heavy snowfall, so please pay close attention to the daily service information during the winter months.

"Azusa" Limited Express Operating Sections

Main Sections

• Shinjuku Station to Matsumoto Station (via the JR Chuo Line)
• Shinjuku Station to Hakuba Station (via the JR Chuo Line and JR Oito Line)

Matsumoto Station is the closest station to the national treasure Matsumoto Castle and also serves as a base for sightseeing in the Northern Alps, including Kamikochi and Norikura Plateau. Hakuba Station is known as a trailhead for the Northern Alps, including Mount Hakuba, and attracts many tourists from both Japan and abroad during the ski season.

Stations Served by the "Azusa" Limited Express

Main Stations Served

• Shinjuku Station
• Hachioji Station
• Otsuki Station
• Kofu Station
• Chino Station
• Kami-Suwa Station
• Okaya Station
• Shiojiri Station
• Matsumoto Station
• Hakuba Station (for some services only)

*The stations served vary depending on the service.

"Azusa" Limited Express Fares

Representative Section Fares

*Actual fares may vary depending on the section of travel and the purchase method. Please check the latest fares on Ekitan or the railway company's official website.

• Limited Express Price, Ticket and Timetable - ekitan

Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Limited Express Fare

The fare for the "Azusa" Limited Express is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the Limited Express surcharge. For Ordinary Cars, there are also unassigned seat tickets available, which cost the same as a Reserved Seat Limited Express ticket. Since all seats on the "Azusa" Limited Express are reserved, there is no unreserved seat fare. If you purchase a Limited Express ticket on board, the onboard fare will be the advance purchase fare plus 260 yen.

Unassigned Seat Ticket and Green Car

Unassigned seat tickets can be purchased for the same price as Reserved Seat Limited Express tickets, and after boarding, you should use a seat with a red (empty) lamp above it. If you wish to use the Green Car (Car No. 9), you will need to pay the Green Car fare in addition to the Reserved Seat fare for the Ordinary Car.

How to Buy Tickets for the "Azusa" Limited Express

Eki-net (Internet Reservation)

JR East's online reservation service, "Eki-net," allows you to purchase ticketless Limited Express tickets using a credit card. "Eki-net Ticketless Discounts" may be available, and depending on the service, route, and time of year, discounted tickets may be available for early purchases. Limited Express tickets generally go on sale one month prior to the travel date. Membership registration is free, and you can check seat availability and make reservations from your smartphone.

Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and Ticket Offices

You can purchase Limited Express tickets from one month before your travel date at the Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and ticket offices at the station. Unassigned seat tickets can also be purchased at the same ticket offices and machines.

Purchase Onboard

While it is possible to purchase a Limited Express ticket from the conductor on board after boarding, the onboard fare will be the advance purchase fare plus 260 yen.

How to Buy for Foreign Tourists

Since the "Azusa" Limited Express is operated by JR East, it may be used with the JR Pass and some other JR East passes. If using a pass, it is recommended to reserve your seat before boarding for a smoother experience.

*Please pay attention to the conditions for applying the pass.

Is a Physical Ticket Required?

If you complete the credit card payment using the "Eki-net" ticketless service, you can board the train by linking your smartphone screen or transportation IC card. If you purchase tickets at a Reserved Seat Ticket Machine or at a Midori-no-Madoguchi, you will need to receive a paper Limited Express ticket before boarding.

Can I Use Contactless Payment with an IC Card or Credit Card?

Parts of the "Azusa" Limited Express operating section, such as the section between Shinjuku Station and Otsuki Station in the Tokyo metropolitan area, are included in the Suica area, and the basic fare portion can be paid using a transportation IC card to pass through the ticket gates. However, the Limited Express fare cannot be paid using the balance on the IC card and must be purchased as a Limited Express ticket in advance. At stations outside the Suica area, such as Matsumoto Station and Hakuba Station, you must purchase a basic fare ticket in advance.

On the routes served by the "Azusa" Limited Express, contactless payment via credit card is not available for boarding at ticket gates.

"Azusa" Limited Express Seating Information

Seat Type (All seats are reserved)

The "Azusa" Limited Express is operated using the E353 series electric train and consists of Reserved Seats in Ordinary Cars and a Green Car (Car No. 9). There are no unreserved seats.

Distinctive Seating

The E353 series employs an air-spring type car body tilting system, providing a natural and smooth ride even on the winding JR Chuo Line. All seats are equipped with a table for a laptop and a power outlet, making it suitable for business use. The train is structured to be split and coupled into 9-car and 3-car sections, and some services detach the 3-car section to continue directly to the JR Oito Line. The interior concept is based on the "purity" of the Southern Alps and the Azusa River, and is finished in calming colors.

Large Luggage Storage Area

The train is equipped with a large luggage storage area, accommodating travelers with large items such as skis and snowboards.

Barrier-Free Facilities

The E353 series trains are equipped with barrier-free facilities. However, the availability of wheelchair-accessible seats varies by car, so if you wish to use them, it is recommended that you consult with JR East's ticket office or telephone reservation center in advance.

Ekiben and Onboard Dining on the "Azusa" Limited Express

Some regular "Azusa" Limited Express services (between Shinjuku and Matsumoto) offer limited onboard sales of hot coffee, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and snacks. However, bento boxes, light meals, and general merchandise are not sold, so if you want a proper meal, it's recommended to buy an ekiben at Shinjuku Station or elsewhere before boarding. There are plenty of ekiben shops and restaurants around Shinjuku and Matsumoto stations, making it convenient for shopping before your train ride.

*Please note that the products available for onboard sales and the operating services may change.

Important Notes for Riding the "Azusa" Limited Express

Since all seats on the "Azusa" Limited Express are reserved, it is recommended to make a reservation early if you know your travel dates. Because services bound for Matsumoto and Hakuba sometimes depart from the same platform, please carefully check the destination display before boarding. Also, at Otsuki Station, some services are coupled with and uncoupled from the Fujikyu Railway's "Fuji Excursion" Limited Express, so please pay attention to the car number you board.

Onboard sales are limited to a selection of drinks and light snacks, so if you want a full meal, be sure to prepare it before boarding. If you are using an unassigned seat ticket, you may not be able to sit down if the service is full, so we recommend reserving your seat in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Summary

The "Azusa" is a representative all-reserved-seat Limited Express on the JR Chuo Line, connecting Shinjuku and Tokyo stations with Matsumoto and Hakuba. You can travel from Shinjuku to Matsumoto without changing trains, making it a convenient base for sightseeing to Matsumoto Castle, Kamikochi, Azumino, Hakuba, and other destinations. There are Reserved Seats in Ordinary Cars and Green Cars, and a Reserved Seat Limited Express ticket is required in addition to the basic fare ticket. Secure your seat in advance at Eki-net, Reserved Seat Ticket Machines, or Midori-no-Madoguchi, and book early during peak seasons. Since the stations served and destinations vary depending on the service, it is also important to check the service number and arrival station.

There are sections of the route where you can enjoy views of the Kofu Basin, the Yatsugatake Mountains, and Lake Suwa from the train window. Checking connections to local buses and the JR Oito Line after arrival will make it easier to plan your trip.

Ekitan Travel Media Editorial Department

The Ekitan Travel Media editorial team provides information on transportation in Japan, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), regular trains, intercity travel, and access to tourist destinations. We also offer easy-to-understand travel information for international visitors.
This article is published by Ekitan Co., Ltd., the provider of the train transfer information service "Ekitan," and is based on Japanese railway and transportation information. Ekitan's website and app are used by over 10 million users per month.