Timetable, Fares, and Ticket Purchasing for the B Limited Express "YUKEMURI"

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Nagano Electric Railway's B Limited Express "YUKEMURI", which connects Nagano Station and Yudanaka Station. It includes timetables, fares for major sections, stations where the train stops, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, whether tickets need to be issued, and IC card compatibility. This train serves as an access train for Obuse, Suzaka, and Yudanaka Onsen, and this article organizes key points to check before your trip.

The information in this article is current as of July 2026. Operating days, timetables, fares, and ticket sales conditions may change, so please check the latest information on Ekitan or the railway company's official website before using the service.

The B Limited Express "YUKEMURI" is a limited express train operated by the Nagano Electric Railway, connecting Nagano Station and Yudanaka Station. Nagano Electric Railway's limited express trains are divided into A Limited Express trains with fewer stops and B Limited Express trains with more stops. B Limited Express trains stop at major stations along the line, such as Obuse Station, making them convenient for those who want to enjoy the scenery along the way by getting off at intermediate stations. The 1000 series used are vehicles that were formerly used as Odakyu Romancecar HiSE (10000 series). A major feature is that passengers can enjoy the scenery ahead from the observation seats at the front of the train. It is used for trips to Obuse, known for its chestnut sweets, the townscape associated with Hokusai, and the Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen-kyo hot spring areas. Since there are trains with similar names and destinations, it is recommended to check the train name and destination on the departure information display before boarding.

What is the B Limited Express "YUKEMURI"?

The B Limited Express "YUKEMURI" is a limited express train operated by the Nagano Electric Railway, named after the steam rising from the hot springs of Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen. The Nagano Electric Railway is a private railway that operates the Nagano Line, connecting Nagano Station and Yudanaka Station, and is affectionately known as "Nagaden." Along the line, there are many attractions such as the chestnut sweets of Obuse, the kura (storehouse) district of Suzaka, and the Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen-kyo hot spring areas. The 1000 series used for the B Limited Express "YUKEMURI" is a vehicle that was formerly used as the Odakyu Romancecar HiSE (10000 series). A major feature is the observation seats at the front, where passengers can enjoy the scenery ahead. Due to its high-decker structure, the floor is designed to be high, allowing passengers to enjoy the view from the windows. The B Limited Express has more stops than the A Limited Express, and also stops at Obuse Station.

Train features and popular points

The appeal of the B Limited Express "YUKEMURI" lies in its ability to provide access to major stations along the line, such as Obuse, while enjoying the views from the observation seats. Obuse is known as a town lined with famous chestnut sweets shops and is a popular tourist destination for strolling around town. At the Hokusai Museum, you can admire works created by Katsushika Hokusai in his later years. The observation seats are located at the front of the train, allowing you to see the tracks ahead over the driver's cab. Due to its high-decker structure, the floor is elevated, allowing you to enjoy the panoramic views from the windows. Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen-kyo are historic hot spring resorts known for their nine public bathhouses. Suzaka is a town with many storehouse-style buildings and a history of prosperity from the silk reeling industry. From the train windows, you can enjoy the rural landscape of Nagano with its apple orchards and the mountain ranges stretching into the distance.

Timetable for the B Limited Express "YUKEMURI"

*The B Limited Express "YUKEMURI" operates several round trips per day.

Downbound (towards Yudanaka Station) Timetable

Upbound (towards Nagano Station) Timetable

The B Limited Express "YUKEMURI" operates several round trips per day. Since the schedule may change depending on the season and timetable revisions, it's best to check the latest schedule on the Ekitan website before boarding. There are more trains during the morning and evening high seasons, while the intervals between trains may be longer during the daytime. If you have connecting trains or buses, it's advisable to choose connections that allow ample time before your arrival.

• Limited Express Price, Ticket and Timetable - ekitan

Important information regarding operating days and days when the service is suspended.

The B Limited Express "YUKEMURI" may have varying operating days and frequency depending on the season. The trains used will also vary from day to day, and some services may use "Snow Monkey" trains. During winter, delays may occur due to snowfall.

Operating Section of the B Limited Express "YUKEMURI"

Main Sections

• Nagano Station to Suzaka Station (Nagano Electric Railway Nagano Line)
• Suzaka Station to Shinshu-Nakano Station (Nagano Electric Railway Nagano Line)
• Shinshu-Nakano Station to Yudanaka Station (Nagano Electric Railway Nagano Line)

Obuse Station is the gateway to Obuse, the chestnut town. In Obuse, you can enjoy chestnut confections such as chestnut yokan and chestnut okowa, which are lined with long-established shops. At the Hokusai Museum, you can admire original paintings by Katsushika Hokusai and ceiling paintings of festival floats. Suzaka is known as a town of kura (storehouses), and there are many art museums and historical sites housed in old buildings. There is a footbath in front of Yudanaka Station, so you can enjoy the hot spring feeling as soon as you arrive. The cobblestone streets of Shibu Onsen are a charming townscape where you can enjoy strolling in a yukata. At Jigokudani Monkey Park, you can observe Japanese macaques bathing in hot springs up close. As you will mainly be traveling to the surrounding tourist attractions by bus or on foot, it is a good idea to check the local transportation options in advance. There may be tourist information centers around the stations where you can obtain maps and brochures.

Stations Where the B Limited Express "YUKEMURI" Stops

Main Stops

• Nagano Station
• Gondo Station
• Hongō Station
• Shinano-Yoshida Station
• Asahi Station
• Obuse Station
• Suzaka Station
• Shinshu Nakano Station
• Yudanaka Station

*The stations where the train stops may vary depending on the service.

Fares for the B Limited Express "YUKEMURI"

Representative Section Fare

Reserved seats on the A Limited Express cost 300 yen per seat, while reserved private compartments on the "Snow Monkey" train cost 1,200 yen per compartment.

• Limited Express Price, Ticket and Timetable - ekitan

Breakdown of basic fare and limited express fare

The fare for the B Limited Express "YUKEMURI" is the sum of the basic fare (fare) to your destination and the limited express fare. Nagano Electric Railway's limited express fares are set at a nearly uniform amount, making them easy to use. Seating is unreserved, and seat reservations are not required if you purchase a limited express ticket. When purchasing tickets, make sure you have both the basic fare ticket and the limited express ticket. Limited express fares on private railways are set according to the section of travel and do not fluctuate with high and off-seasons like JR. The fare is divided into the "basic fare" (fare) for the journey to your destination and the "limited express fare" for riding the limited express train. Note that you cannot ride the limited express with just a basic fare ticket; both must be purchased.

Differences from A Limited Express

Nagano Electric Railway's limited express trains are divided into A Limited Express and B Limited Express trains based on the number of stops. A Limited Express trains stop only at major stations, while B Limited Express trains stop at more stations, including Obuse Station. The limited express fare is the same, but the B Limited Express train takes slightly longer. If you plan to stop at Obuse or Suzaka, choosing a B Limited Express train is convenient.

How to Buy Tickets for the B Limited Express "YUKEMURI"

Purchase at station ticket offices or ticket machines

Nagano Electric Railway limited express tickets can be purchased at ticket offices and ticket machines at major stations such as Nagano Station and Yudanaka Station. They are typically purchased together with the basic fare ticket. When purchasing, you will specify the date of travel, section of travel, train name, and number of passengers. Payment can be made by credit card, and cash is also accepted depending on the purchase method. Changes and refunds after booking are subject to certain conditions and fees.

Purchase on board

If the ticket office is closed or you are boarding from an unmanned station, you may be able to purchase a limited express ticket on board. Since it is unreserved seating, seat reservations are not required. Ticket machines are often multilingual, making them easy to use even if you don't understand Japanese. At the ticket office, simply tell the staff your destination and desired departure time, and they will guide you to the appropriate train. During high seasons, ticket offices can get crowded, so it's best to go with plenty of time to spare.

Travel Agencies

Major travel agencies offer travel packages that combine accommodation in the Obuse and Yudanaka areas with train travel.

How to buy for foreign tourists

The B Limited Express "YUKEMURI" is a Nagano Electric Railway train and is therefore not covered by the JR Pass. Even if you travel to Nagano Station using the JR Pass, you will need to pay the fare and limited express fare separately for travel on the Nagano Electric Railway line. Some ticket offices offer information in foreign languages. Special tickets for international visitors may have limited purchase conditions and sales locations, so it is advisable to check before you travel.

Is a Physical Ticket Required?

Nagano Electric Railway limited express tickets are primarily paper tickets purchased at ticket offices or ticket machines. Since it is an unreserved seating service, you do not need to receive a seat reservation. If you do receive a paper ticket, it is best to pick it up with plenty of time to spare, rather than right before boarding. Tickets cannot be reissued if lost, so please keep them safe during your journey.

Can IC Cards or Credit Card Touch Payments Be Used?

As of 2026, Suica, PASMO, and other transportation IC cards cannot be used as tickets at Nagano Electric Railway ticket gates. Please purchase your basic fare ticket and limited express ticket at ticket machines or ticket offices at stations. The introduction of transportation IC cards is scheduled for spring 2027.

We do not support contactless payment via credit card when boarding the train.

Seat Information for the B Limited Express "YUKEMURI"

Seat Type

The B Limited Express "YUKEMURI" has all unreserved seating. There is no seat reservation, including for the observation seats. During high seasons, the train can get crowded, so it's best to head to the platform with plenty of time to spare. If you want to sit next to your travel companion or use the observation seats, line up at the boarding area early.

Distinctive seating

The observation seats at the front of the train are popular as they offer panoramic views of the scenery ahead. Since these are unreserved seats, you cannot reserve a seat, so it's best to line up on the platform early if you want to sit in an observation seat. The high-decker structure allows you to enjoy the scenery from a higher position than in regular trains. The seats are equipped with a reclining function for a comfortable ride. Window seats are suitable if you want to enjoy the scenery, while aisle seats are suitable if you prioritize ease of boarding and alighting. For long journeys, choosing a seat that suits your preference (window/aisle) can enhance comfort.

Large luggage storage area

Space for large luggage is limited. Suitcases will need to be placed in the space at your feet or in the end sections of the car.

Barrier-free facilities

Due to its high-decker structure, the train has stairs inside. If you are using a wheelchair, it is recommended to contact Nagano Electric Railway in advance. The availability of multi-purpose rooms and wheelchair-accessible facilities may vary depending on the train car and train set.

Enjoy Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and In-Train Gourmet Food on the B Limited Express "YUKEMURI"

On the B Limited Express "YUKEMURI," there is no onboard sales service. It is recommended to purchase drinks and snacks around Nagano Station before boarding. Obuse offers a wide variety of chestnut sweets, including chestnut yokan and chestnut kanoko. Nagano is known for its soba noodles and oyaki. In Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen, there are many shops selling onsen manju (hot spring steamed buns). If you eat or drink on the train, please be considerate of others by avoiding foods with strong odors. Dispose of empty containers and trash in the trash cans on the train or at the station after disembarking.

Points to Note When Riding the B Limited Express "YUKEMURI"

The B Limited Express "YUKEMURI" has unreserved seating, so you cannot reserve a seat. The stops are different from the A Limited Express, so be sure to check the stops before boarding. The observation seats are very popular, so if you want to ride in them, line up on the platform early. The trains used vary from day to day, and sometimes the "Snow Monkey" trains are used. In winter, there may be snow, so it is a good idea to wear non-slip shoes. Before boarding, be sure to check the train name, car number, and seat number on your ticket. If you are bringing large luggage, please use the luggage racks or overhead compartments so as not to block the aisle. Onboard, it is good manners to keep phone calls to a minimum so as not to disturb other passengers.

Since there is no onboard service, be sure to prepare drinks and snacks before boarding. Checking the operating status on a site like Ekitan before boarding will help you calmly deal with delays or cancellations.

Summary

The B Limited Express "YUKEMURI" is a limited express train operated by the Nagano Electric Railway, connecting Nagano Station and Yudanaka Station. It makes more stops than the A Limited Express, making it a convenient train for those who want to visit Obuse or Suzaka. It uses former Odakyu Romancecar trains with observation seats, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenery while traveling through Shinshu.

Enjoy a journey through the towns and hot springs of Shinshu on the B Limited Express "YUKEMURI," which also stops at Obuse and Suzaka.

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 to Japan.
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.