Timetable, Fares, and Ticket Purchasing Information for the "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO"

This article introduces the "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO" train, which will operate between Asahikawa Station and Furano Station on August 29th and 30th, 2026, including its schedule, stops, fares, seating, and reservation methods. This special train features extended stops at Biei, Kamifurano, and Nakafurano stations, allowing passengers to enjoy sightseeing along the route. All seats are reserved.

The "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO" is a JR Hokkaido sightseeing train that connects Asahikawa Station and Furano Station via the JR Furano Line. It covers the entire operating section of the "FURANO BIEI NOROKKO" train, allowing passengers to fully enjoy the scenery along the line. The name "Norokko" is a portmanteau of "noroi" (slow) and "torokko" (trolley). The train features passenger cars with large windows that can be opened, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenery while feeling the breeze. Because it travels at a slow speed, passengers can savor the scenery at their leisure. It operates mainly during the lavender season, offering stunning views of Furano and Biei. It makes a stop at the temporary "Lavender Field Station," from which Farm Tomita is accessible on foot. Since there are similar-sounding train names and destinations, it's advisable to check the departure information display before boarding to confirm the train name and destination.

What is the "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO"?

The "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO" is a sightseeing train designed to allow passengers to fully enjoy the scenery along the JR Furano Line. The JR Furano Line runs from Asahikawa Station through Biei to Furano Station. Along the line, lavender fields and gently rolling hills stretch out. "Lavender Field Station" is a temporary station that is only open during the lavender season. The Norokko train's passenger cars are pulled by a diesel locomotive.

Train Features and Popular Points

The charm of the "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO" train lies in the fact that you can enjoy the entire JR Furano Line route from one end to the other. You can experience two famous spots at once: the hills of Biei and the lavender fields of Furano. The train's windows are large and open, allowing you to feel the summer breeze as you travel. From Lavender Field Station, you can walk to Farm Tomita. The lavender fields at Farm Tomita are at their best in mid-July. The hills of Biei are known for their patchwork-like landscape of fields. The Blue Pond is a world-renowned scenic spot in Biei. Information about the sights along the route may be provided on board. Checking the stops and travel times before boarding will make it easier to plan an itinerary that includes stops along the way. The scenery from the train window changes greatly depending on the season, so it is recommended to choose the time of year that suits your purpose.

Timetable for the "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO"

*The "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO" train operates only on limited days during summer.

Downbound (towards Furano Station) Timetable

Timetable for Upbound Trains (towards Asahikawa Station)

The "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO" train operates only on limited days during summer. 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 in the morning and evening, but the intervals between trains may be longer during the day. If you have connecting trains or buses, it's advisable to choose connections that allow ample time before your arrival.

• Limited Express Fares, Tickets, and Timetables - Ekitan

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

The "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO" train operates only on limited days, mainly during the summer. Operating days and sections may vary from year to year. Stops at Lavender Field Station are limited to the period when it is open.

Operating Section of the "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO"

Main Sections

• Asahikawa Station – Biei Station (JR Furano Line)
• Biei Station – Kamifurano Station (JR Furano Line)
• Kamifurano Station – Furano Station (JR Furano Line)

Lavender Field Station is a temporary station that serves as the closest stop to Farm Tomita. Farm Tomita is a representative lavender field of Furano. The best time to see the lavender is usually around mid-July. In the hills of Biei, there are scenic routes such as Patchwork Road and Panorama Road. The Blue Pond is a pond known for its fantastical cobalt blue surface. Furano is also known as the setting for television dramas. In Asahikawa, Asahiyama Zoo is nationally known. Since travel to surrounding tourist attractions is mainly by bus or on foot, it is a good idea to check the local transportation options in advance. There may be a tourist information center near the station where you can obtain maps and brochures. On lines with limited service, it is also a good idea to check the return train and bus schedules.

Stations where the "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO" stops

Main Stops

• Asahikawa Station
• Biei Station
• Kamifurano Station
• Lavender Field Station (Temporary Station)
• Nakafurano Station
• Furano Station

*Stops may vary depending on the train.

Fares for the "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO"

Representative Section Fare

Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Express Train Fare

The fare for the "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO" train is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the reserved seat ticket. Since all seats are reserved, you cannot board with just a basic fare ticket. When purchasing tickets, make sure you have both the basic fare ticket and the reserved seat ticket. Reserved seat fares and sales conditions are subject to change, so please check the latest information on the JR Hokkaido official website or Ekitan.

Differences from the "FURANO BIEI NOROKKO" train

The "FURANO BIEI NOROKKO" is a sightseeing train that also operates services to and from Biei Station. The "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO" runs the entire route from Asahikawa Station to Furano Station. If you want to enjoy the scenery along the line from one end to the other, the "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO" is more convenient. Operating days and sections may vary from year to year.

How to Buy Tickets for the "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO"

Eki-net (Internet Reservation)

You can reserve seats on JR Hokkaido's sightseeing trains through online reservation services such as Eki-net. 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. 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 conditions and fees.

 

 

Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and Midori-no-madoguchi

You can also purchase reserved seat tickets at the station's reserved seat ticket machines and Midori-no-madoguchi. Since these trains only operate on limited days, be sure to check the operating dates before purchasing. Ticket vending machines often support multiple languages, making them easy to use even if you don't understand Japanese. At 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 offer travel packages that combine sightseeing in Furano and Biei with train travel.

How to Purchase for Foreign Tourists

The "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO" train is operated by JR Hokkaido, so it can be used with the Japan Rail Pass or Hokkaido Rail Pass. Even when using a pass, you will need to obtain a separate seat reservation ticket if you wish to use a reserved seat. Some station Midori-no-madoguchi 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.

Is a Physical Ticket Required?

Even if you purchase your tickets online, 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 IC Cards or Credit Card Touch Payments Be Used?

There are sections of the JR Furano Line where IC cards cannot be used. It is advisable to prepare to purchase tickets with cash or from a ticket vending machine. While some transportation IC cards can be used across regions due to the nationwide interoperability service, 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 an IC card. A reserved seat ticket must be purchased separately.

Seat Information for the "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO"

Seat Types

The "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO" train operates in carriages with large windows that can be opened. During high season, seats fill up quickly, so 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 passenger cars have large, open windows, allowing you to enjoy the scenery while feeling the summer breeze. The seats are wooden box seats, giving the train a retro feel. Seats on the lavender field side offer stunning views of the vibrant landscape. The train travels at a slow speed, making it ideal for taking photographs. The scenery 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 best for those who want to enjoy the scenery, while aisle seats are better for those who prioritize ease of boarding and alighting. For longer journeys, it's recommended to check your seat location in advance before making a reservation for a more comfortable experience.

Large Luggage Storage

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

Accessibility Features

There are steps in the passenger cars. If you will be using a wheelchair, it is recommended to contact JR Hokkaido in advance. The availability of multi-purpose rooms and wheelchair-accessible facilities may vary depending on the car and train set.

 

 

Ekiben and Onboard Dining on the "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO"

On the "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO" train, light meals, drinks, and souvenirs may be sold on board. In Furano, melon and lavender soft serve ice cream are specialties. In Biei, you can enjoy dishes made with local vegetables. In Asahikawa, Asahikawa ramen is a well-known specialty. Station shops may have limited operating hours, so it's best to stop by early. 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 in the trash cans at the station after disembarking.

Points to Note When Riding the "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO"

The "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO" train operates only on limited days during summer, so be sure to check the operating dates. The best time to see the lavender varies depending on the weather each year. Lavender Field Station is a temporary station, so only a limited number of trains stop there. Because the windows are open, you may be affected by wind and rain depending on the weather. Furano and Biei are very crowded during the lavender season. Before boarding, be sure to check the train name, car number, and seat number written 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 the number of trains is limited, be sure to check the return train schedule as well. Before boarding, check the train service status for the day on Ekitan or the railway company's official website.

Summary

The "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO" is a sightseeing train operated by JR Hokkaido, connecting Asahikawa Station and Furano Station. It travels the entire length of the JR Furano Line, allowing passengers to enjoy the hills and lavender fields of Biei all at once. Since it only operates on limited days during summer, be sure to check the operating schedule before boarding.

Enjoy Hokkaido's summer on the "FURANO BIEI MANKITSU NOROKKO" train, where you can fully experience Biei and Furano.

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.