Timetable, Fares, and Ticket Purchasing Information for "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI"

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR East temporary rapid train "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI" connecting Niitsu Station and Aizu-Wakamatsu Station, including its timetable, fares for representative sections, stations served, how to buy tickets, whether tickets need to be issued, and IC card compatibility. This train serves as access to the Ban'etsu West Line and the Agano River gorge, and we've compiled 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 "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI" is a JR East temporary rapid train connecting Niitsu Station and Aizu-Wakamatsu Station via the Ban'etsu West Line. While the "SL BANETSU MONOGATARI" is normally pulled by a steam locomotive, this train is pulled by a diesel locomotive. It is operated by diesel locomotives during periods of steam locomotive inspection and maintenance. The passenger cars are the same 12-series passenger cars used for the "SL BANETSU MONOGATARI." All seats are reserved, so advance seat reservations are required. The scenic beauty of the Agano River valley is a highlight of the journey. Because there are similar train names and destinations, it's advisable to check the departure information display before boarding.

What is "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI"?

The "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI" is a passenger train pulled by a diesel locomotive. "DL" stands for Diesel Locomotive. The "SL BANETSU MONOGATARI" is a popular sightseeing train pulled by a C57 steam locomotive. The Ban'etsu West Line runs from Niitsu Station through Aizu-Wakamatsu to Koriyama Station. The section that runs along the Agano River offers beautiful scenery of deep gorges.

Train features and popular points

The charm of the "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI" lies in the leisurely journey aboard its retro 12-series passenger cars. The train includes observation cars and Green Cars. From the observation cars, you can enjoy expansive views. Because it doesn't produce smoke, you can open the windows and enjoy the scenery without worrying about soot. The scenic beauty of the gorge along the Agano River is a symbolic landscape of the Ban'etsu West Line. Aizu-Wakamatsu is dotted with historical sites such as Tsuruga Castle and Iimoriyama. Tsugawa is a region known for its fox wedding procession. The train also features a free space and an ermine observation room. Checking the stations served and travel time before boarding makes it easier to plan an itinerary that includes stops along the way. The impression of the scenery from the windows changes greatly depending on the season, so it is recommended to choose the time of year according to your purpose. The 12-series passenger cars are express-type passenger cars that once operated throughout Japan.

Timetable for "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI"

The "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI" is a temporary rapid train that will operate between Niitsu Station and Aizu-Wakamatsu Station on August 1st and 2nd, 2026, among other days. A diesel locomotive will pull the same passenger cars as the "SL BANETSU MONOGATARI." All seats are reserved, and a reserved seat ticket is required in addition to the basic fare ticket.

Downbound (towards Aizu-Wakamatsu Station) timetable

Timetable for northbound trains (towards Niitsu Station)

The "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI" operates only on limited days (mainly weekends and holidays). 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. Because the number of trains is limited, be sure to check the round-trip schedule when planning your itinerary. If you have connecting trains or buses, choose connections that allow ample time from your arrival time for peace of mind.

• Limited Express Price, Ticket and Timetable - ekitan

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

The "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI" is a train that operates mainly on weekends and holidays. It is operated by a diesel locomotive during periods when the steam locomotive is undergoing inspection and maintenance. The operating dates are announced in advance, so be sure to check if you plan to ride it.

Operating Section of "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI"

Main Sections

• Niitsu Station to Gosen Station (Ban'etsu West Line)
• Gosen Station to Tsugawa Station (Ban'etsu West Line)
• Tsugawa Station to Aizu-Wakamatsu Station (Ban'etsu West Line)

Aizu-Wakamatsu Station is the gateway to Aizu tourism. Tsuruga Castle is a symbol of Aizu, characterized by its red-tiled keep. Iimoriyama is known as a place associated with the Byakkotai (White Tiger Corps). Ouchi-juku can be accessed by transferring between Aizu Railway lines. Tsugawa is a region known for its fox wedding procession. The Agano River gorge is a highlight of the scenery from the train window. Niitsu is known as a railway town and has a railway museum. Since travel to surrounding tourist spots is mainly by bus or on foot, it is a good idea to check local transportation options in advance. There are often tourist information centers around the station where you can obtain maps and brochures. For lines with limited service, it is a good idea to check the return train and bus schedules as well. Gosen is a town known as a knitwear production area.

Stations Served by "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI"

Main Stations Served

• Niitsu Station
• Gosen Station
• Tsugawa Station
• Nozawa Station
• Aizu-Wakamatsu Station

The stations the train stops at may vary depending on the train and the day of operation.

Fares for "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI"

Representative Section Fares

The "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI" is not a limited express train. Please check the latest fares and reserved seat charges on Ekitan or the JR East official website.

Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Reserved Seat Fare

To ride the "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI," you will need a basic fare ticket for your journey and a reserved seat ticket. All seats are reserved, so please purchase your reserved seat ticket in advance. If you wish to use the Green Car, you will need both a basic fare ticket and a Green Car ticket.

Differences from "SL"

The "SL BANETSU MONOGATARI" is pulled by a steam locomotive, while the "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI" is pulled by a diesel locomotive. The same 12-series passenger cars are used, so the interior facilities are the same. If you want to experience the power of a steam locomotive, choose the "SL". If you want to avoid smoke and soot, the "DL" will be a more comfortable ride.

How to Buy Tickets for "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI"

Eki-net (Internet Reservation)

JR East's online reservation service, "Eki-net," allows you to reserve reserved seats using a credit card. Reserved seats go on sale one month prior to the travel date at 10:00 AM. When making a reservation, you specify the travel date, route, train name, and number of passengers, and then select your seats. In addition to credit cards, cash is also accepted depending on the purchase method. Changes and refunds after reservation are subject to certain conditions and fees.

 

 

Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and Midori-no-madoguchi

You can purchase reserved seat tickets at the station's reserved seat ticket machines or at the Midori-no-madoguchi. Since all seats are reserved, you cannot board the train without securing a seat. Ticket machines often support multiple languages, making them easy to use even if you don't understand Japanese. At the Midori-no-madoguchi, simply tell the staff your destination and desired departure time, and they will guide you to the appropriate train. Midori-no-madoguchi can get crowded during high season, so it's best to go with plenty of time to spare.

Travel Agencies

Major travel agencies sometimes offer travel packages that combine sightseeing in Aizu with train travel.

How to Buy for International Tourists

The "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI" is a JR East train, so it can be used with the JR Pass or JR East Area Pass. Even when using a pass, all seats are reserved, so you will need to obtain a separate seat reservation ticket. Some ticket offices offer assistance in foreign languages. Special tickets for international tourists may have limited purchase conditions and sales locations, so it is advisable to check before traveling.

Do I Need to Get a Physical Ticket?

Even if you purchase your ticket through "Eki-net," you may still need to pick up a paper ticket at a designated ticket vending machine at the station. If you need to pick up a paper ticket, it's best to do so 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 I Use Contactless Payment with an IC Card or Credit Card?

In the Suica area around Niigata, you can use a transportation IC card for the basic fare portion. However, most of the Ban'etsu West Line is outside the IC card area. Transportation IC cards can sometimes be used across regions due to the nationwide interoperability service. However, the usable area is determined by each railway company, so be sure to check in advance whether your journey is within their area.

Contactless payment via credit card is not available for boarding at ticket gates.

*Please note that you cannot board the train using only an IC card. A reserved seat ticket must be purchased separately.

Seating Information for "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI"

Seat Types

The "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI" is an all-reserved-seat train. 12-series passenger cars are used. Since the number of seats is limited, it's best to book early once your travel dates are decided. You may be able to choose between window and aisle seats when booking. If you want to sit together with your travel companions, booking together makes it easier to secure adjacent seats.

Distinctive seating

The train includes observation cars and Green Cars. From the observation cars, you can enjoy expansive views. The train also features a free space and an ermine observation room. Because it doesn't produce smoke, you can open the windows and enjoy the scenery without worrying about soot. The view changes depending on the direction of travel, so it's a good idea to check your seat location when making a reservation. 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, it's best to check your seat location in advance and make a reservation for a more comfortable experience.

Large luggage storage area

Space for large luggage is limited. Large items will need to be placed in the space at your feet.

Barrier-free facilities

There are steps in the passenger cars. If you will be using a wheelchair, it is recommended to consult with JR East's ticket offices in advance. Multipurpose rooms and wheelchair-accessible facilities may vary depending on the car and train set.

 

 

Enjoy Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and In-Train Gourmet Food on the "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI" Train

On the "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI" train, snacks, drinks, and souvenirs may be sold on board. Local Aizu cuisine includes Kozuyu soup, sauce katsudon, and wappa meshi. Niigata is nationally known as a producer of Koshihikari rice. Aizu is also known as a sake producing region with many sake breweries. Onboard sales vary depending on the train and season, so it's best to prepare drinks and snacks before boarding. Station shops may have limited operating hours, so it's a good idea to stop by early. When eating or drinking on board, please be considerate of others by avoiding foods with strong odors. Dispose of empty containers and trash in the trash cans on board or at the station after disembarking.

Points to Note When Riding "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI"

The "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI" operates only on limited days, so be sure to check the operating dates before planning your trip. All seats are reserved, so you cannot board without a reserved seat. The locomotive used is different from the "SL BANETSU MONOGATARI". If you wish to ride with a steam locomotive, choose the "SL" service. The Ban'etsu West Line is susceptible to heavy rain, so be sure to check the operating status. Before boarding, check the train name, car number, and seat number printed on your ticket. If you are bringing large luggage, please use the luggage racks or overhead compartments to avoid blocking the aisle. Onboard, it is good manners to keep phone calls to a minimum so as not to disturb other passengers.

If you wish to use a Green Car, a separate Green Car ticket is required. Before boarding, please check the train schedule on Ekitan or the railway company's official website.

Summary

The "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI" is a temporary JR East train connecting Niitsu Station and Aizu-Wakamatsu Station. It features 12-series passenger cars pulled by a diesel locomotive, offering passengers the scenic beauty of the Agano River gorge. As it's a counterpart to the "SL" train, be sure to check the difference in locomotives before boarding.

Enjoy a journey connecting Echigo and Aizu on the "DL BANETSU MONOGATARI," which follows the Agano River gorge.

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.