Timetable, fares, and ticket purchasing information for the sightseeing train "etSETOra"

This article provides a comprehensive overview of JR West's "etSETOra" sightseeing train, which connects Hiroshima Station to Onomichi Station (via the Kure Line). It includes timetables, fares for representative sections, stations served, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. As it serves as an access train to the Seto Inland Sea and the Kure Line area, this article summarizes 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.

"etSETOra" is a sightseeing train operated by JR West that connects Hiroshima Station and Onomichi Station via the Kure Line. The train's name is a coined word combining the Latin "et cetera" and "SETO". The Kure Line is known as a scenic route that runs along the coastline of the Seto Inland Sea. All seats are reserved, so advance seat reservations are required to board. As this train operates on limited days, you need to check the operating dates if you plan to ride it. You may be able to enjoy light meals and sweets made with ingredients from the Seto Inland Sea on board. There are other trains with similar names and destinations, so it is a good idea to check the train name and destination on the departure information display before boarding.

What is "etSETOra"?

"etSETOra" is a sightseeing train that debuted as part of JR West's "Setouchi Hiroshima Destination Campaign." The train's name reflects the desire to "enjoy the various charms of the Seto Inland Sea." The Kure Line runs from Kaitaichi Station through Kure and Takehara to Mihara Station. The interior is a bright space based on white, with a design that complements the scenery of the Seto Inland Sea. The train cars were created by converting former sightseeing trains.

Train features and popular points

The charm of "etSETOra" lies in the fact that you can travel while leisurely enjoying the coastline of the Seto Inland Sea. There are seats facing the sea, so you can fully enjoy the scenery from the window. The train may slow down in sections with good views. At the cafe counter on board, you may be able to purchase light meals and sweets made with ingredients from the Seto Inland Sea. Kure is known as a former naval town and is home to the Yamato Museum. Takehara is called "Little Kyoto of Aki" and preserves its Edo-period townscape. Onomichi is known as a town of hills and retains temples, shrines, and old streets. The Shimanami Kaido is a mecca for cyclists, stretching from Onomichi to Shikoku. Checking the stops and travel time before boarding will make it easier to plan an itinerary that includes stops along the way. The impression of the scenery from the window changes greatly depending on the season, so it is recommended to choose the time of year according to your purpose. The coastline of the Aki Sea along the Kure Line offers a continuous view of the calm sea characteristic of the Seto Inland Sea. Onomichi is also known as a town that has been featured in movies and anime.

"etSETOra" timetable

*The "etSETOra" is a train that operates only on specific days.

Downbound (towards Onomichi Station) timetable

Timetable for northbound trains (towards Hiroshima Station)

"etSETOra" operates only on select days (mainly Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays). Since times may change depending on the season and schedule revisions, it's best to check the latest times on the Ekitan website before boarding. There are more trains during the morning and evening rush hours, but the intervals 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.

"etSETOra" is a train that operates mainly on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Operating days are announced in advance, so please be sure to check if you plan to ride it. Operating days and sections are subject to change.

"etSETOra" operating section

Main sections

• Hiroshima Station to Kure Station (Kure Line)
• Kure Station to Takehara Station (Kure Line)
• Takehara Station - Mihara Station - Onomichi Station (Kure Line/Sanyo Main Line)

Onomichi Station is the gateway to Onomichi, a town of hills. From Senkoji Park, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Onomichi Channel and the townscape on the opposite shore. Onomichi's ancient temple tour offers a pleasant walk through its hilly streets and narrow alleys. The Shimanami Kaido is a popular route for cyclists, stretching from Onomichi to Imabari. At the Yamato Museum in Kure, you can see a 1/10 scale model of the battleship Yamato. The Takehara townscape preservation district is an area where Edo-period merchant houses remain. Mihara is known as a town of octopus. As getting to the surrounding tourist attractions mainly involves buses and walking, it's a good idea to check local transportation options in advance. Tourist information centers are sometimes located around the station where you can obtain maps and brochures. For lines with limited service, it's reassuring to check the return train and bus schedules as well. From Mihara, you can access the Shimanami Kaido and the islands of the Seto Inland Sea by ferry.

"etSETOra" stops

Main stops

• Hiroshima Station
• Kure Station
• Takehara Station
• Mihara Station
• Onomichi Station

*Stops vary by train service.

"etSETOra" fare

Representative section fare

Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Reserved Green Car Seat Ticket for Regular Train Services

"etSETOra" is a sightseeing train that operates as a regular train, with all seats being reserved Green Car seats. To board, you will need a basic fare ticket to your destination and a Green Car reserved seat ticket for regular train services. There is no "express train surcharge". Please have both your basic fare ticket and Green Car ticket ready before boarding.

Cafe counter inside the car

A cafe counter is available inside the train. Light meals, sweets, and local sake made with ingredients from the Setouchi region may be sold. Some items may require advance reservations. The available items may vary depending on the train and season.

How to buy tickets for "etSETOra"

e5489 (Internet reservation)

JR West's internet reservation service, e5489, allows you to reserve seats using credit card payment. 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.

 

 

Midori-no-madoguchi Ticket Vending Machines and Midori-no-madoguchi

You can purchase reserved seat tickets at the Midori-no-madoguchi ticket vending machines and Midori-no-madoguchi at the station. Since all seats are reserved, you cannot board the train without securing a seat. Ticket vending 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 peak seasons, 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 Setouchi area with train travel.

How to Purchase for International Tourists

"etSETOra" is a JR West train, so it can be used with the JAPAN RAIL PASS or passes for the Kansai and Hiroshima areas. Even when using a pass, you will need to pick up a seat ticket separately. Some station 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 e5489, you may still need to pick up a paper ticket from a Midori-no-madoguchi 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 while you are traveling.

Can I use contactless payment with an IC card or credit card?

Within the ICOCA area around Hiroshima, you can use a transportation IC card for the fare portion of your ticket. 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 service area.

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

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

"etSETOra" seating information

Seat Types

"etSETOra" is an all-reserved-seat train. Seats are arranged facing the ocean. Since the number of seats is limited, it is 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.

Unique Seating Features

The train's interior is a bright, white-based space, designed to complement the scenery of the Seto Inland Sea. Seats facing the sea offer ample views of the islands of the Seto Inland Sea. A cafe counter is available for enjoying food and drinks on board. The seating arrangement is carefully designed to maximize the enjoyment of the scenery outside the window. Since the view changes depending on the direction of travel, it's a good idea to check your seat location when making a reservation. Window seats are suitable for those who want to enjoy the scenery outside, while aisle seats are ideal for those who prioritize ease of boarding and alighting. For long journeys, it's recommended to check your seat location in advance before making a reservation for a more comfortable experience.

Luggage Storage

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

Accessibility Features

If you will be using a wheelchair, it is recommended to consult with JR West's ticket office in advance. Multipurpose rooms and wheelchair-accessible facilities may vary depending on the train car and configuration.

 

 

Enjoy ekiben (train station bento boxes) and in-train gourmet food on "etSETOra".

On the "etSETOra" train, light meals and sweets may be sold at the onboard cafe counter. The Setouchi region is known for its lemons, and lemon-based sweets are popular. Onomichi is famous for its Onomichi ramen. In Kure, navy curry is a popular local delicacy. 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 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 "etSETOra"

"etSETOra" 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. Some onboard items may require advance reservations. Due to its popularity, seats may fill up quickly. Seats on the ocean side are especially popular, so early reservations are recommended. During peak seasons, stations and trains can be crowded, so allow plenty of time. 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.

The availability of in-train sales may vary depending on the train and time of year. It is recommended to check the operating status on the day of travel via Ekitan or the railway company's official website before boarding.

Summary

"etSETOra" is a sightseeing train operated by JR West that connects Hiroshima Station and Onomichi Station via the Kure Line. Passengers can enjoy leisurely views of the Seto Inland Sea coastline while savoring local Setouchi cuisine on board. Since it operates on limited days and all seats are reserved, be sure to check the operating dates and reserve your seat in advance.

Enjoy a journey along the Kure Line aboard "etSETOra," which offers views of the Seto Inland Sea.

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.