"HANA AKARI" Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets

This article introduces JR West's sightseeing train "HANA AKARI," including its operating section, timetable, fares, seating, how to buy tickets, onboard facilities, and food services. "HANA AKARI" is not a train that runs on a fixed section year-round, but rather a sightseeing train that changes its operating area to various locations in western Japan depending on the season. In the summer of 2026, two routes are set up, running from Osaka Station around Lake Biwa and heading to either Ogoto Onsen Station or Otsu Station. A physical ticket is required.

The information in this article is current as of July 2026. Operating days, times, fares, and products sold change depending on the season, so please check the latest information on the JR West official website or Ekitan before using the service.

"HANA AKARI" is a sightseeing train operated by JR West that began service in the autumn of 2024. Based on the concept of "bringing together the splendor of each region and connecting passengers with the local area," it runs throughout western Japan, changing its operating area with each season. The train consists of three cars converted from the KiHa 189 series, and all cars are Green Cars. Car 1 is a Superior Green Car, and Cars 2 and 3 have 1+1 reserved Green Car seats and Green Car box seats for 2 and 4 people. There are no ordinary cars or non-reserved seats.

What is "HANA AKARI"?

"HANA AKARI" is a sightseeing train operated by JR West. The train's name reflects its aim to highlight the charms of various regions in western Japan and to connect local communities with travelers. The exterior features deep colors inspired by dyeing techniques that originated in the Nara period, while the interior boasts a Japanese design featuring flowers and plants that adorn Japan's four seasons. A key feature of the train is that it doesn't just travel back and forth to specific tourist destinations, but rather changes its operating route depending on the season, such as spring, summer, and autumn.

Train Features and Popular Points

The appeal of "HANA AKARI" lies in its spacious seating, a feature unique to all Green Cars, and the opportunity to enjoy local crafts, food, and scenery during the journey. Car 1, the Superior Green Car, is a special space equipped with genuine leather seats, a large table, and power outlets. Cars 2 and 3 have 1+1 individual seats and box seats, and Car 2 also has a free space for passengers to use. JR-WEST FREE Wi-Fi is available on board, and local crafts and art pieces are also on display.

"HANA AKARI" Timetable

The timetable for "HANA AKARI" varies depending on the season and route. In the summer of 2026, one train will operate on either the route from Osaka Station to Ogoto Onsen Station or the route from Osaka Station to Otsu Station on designated days.

Downbound (towards Takayama/Hida-Furukawa) Timetable

Northbound (towards Nagoya) Timetable

In the summer of 2026, the route will be a circular route, passing through the eastern and western shores of Lake Biwa. The arrival station and stops will vary depending on the operating day, so please check the train name, travel date, and destination before making a reservation.

Important Information Regarding Operating Days and Service Suspensions

The summer 2026 operating period is from July 4th to September 27th, on some Saturdays and Sundays. It does not necessarily operate every week, and on operating days, either the service to Ogoto Onsen or the service to Otsu will be scheduled. The route, stops, and schedule may change in the next season.

"HANA AKARI" Operating Section

Main Sections

• Osaka Station to Ogoto Onsen Station (via JR Kyoto Line, Biwako Line, Hokuriku Main Line, and Kosei Line)
• Osaka Station to Otsu Station (via JR Kyoto Line, Kosei Line, Hokuriku Main Line, and Biwako Line)

The "HANA AKARI" train changes its operating route seasonally. Past routes have included Tsuruga to Kinosaki Onsen, Osaka to Onomichi, and Osaka to Tsuruga. It's important not to consider it a train with a fixed route, as the operating route varies depending on when you read this article.

Stations Where "HANA AKARI" Stops

Main Stops

The main stops in the summer of 2026 include Osaka, Shin-Osaka, Kyoto, Otsu/Otsukyo, Ogoto Onsen, Omi-Maiko, Nagahama, Maibara, Hikone, Omihachiman, and Kusatsu. The stations where the train stops will vary depending on the route.

The stations where the train stops vary depending on the season, operating day, and route. Please check the stations where the train stops on your travel date on the reservation screen or the official JR West service information website.

Fare for "HANA AKARI"

Representative Section Fares

This is the total fare and charges for one adult, one-way, during the regular season. The fare will differ if one person uses a Superior Green Car.

The "HANA AKARI" train consists entirely of Green Cars. In addition to a regular train ticket, a Green Car ticket and/or limited express ticket are required to board. There are no ordinary cars or non-reserved seats.

Breakdown of Fares

The fare consists of the fare for the travel section and the fare for the selected seat. Car 1's Superior Green Car can accommodate 1-2 people. Cars 2 and 3 have 1+1 reserved Green Car seats and Green Car box seats for 2 or 4 people. The 4-person box seats can accommodate 3 or more people.

Fare for Meal-Inclusive Plans

Bento boxes and sweets made with ingredients from the area the train operates through may be available for purchase by advance reservation only. The cost of meals is not included in the train fare. After securing your seat, reserve the eligible items through the tourism navigation service "tabiwa by WESTER".

Fares vary depending on seat type, number of passengers, and route. The fare table is updated every season, so please check the displayed price at the time of purchase.

How to Buy Tickets for "HANA AKARI"

Express Reservation, e5489, and More

Green Car reserved seats can be reserved through JR West's internet reservation service "e5489" from 10:00 AM one month prior to the date of travel. Reservations may be possible without registering as a member. Some Green Car reserved seats offer a "Sightseeing Train Ticketless" option, allowing passengers to board without receiving a paper limited express ticket. The fare portion is required separately.

 

 

Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and Midori-no-madoguchi

Tickets are also available at Midori-no-madoguchi at major stations nationwide and at major travel agencies. Superior Green Car and box seats may not be available through e5489, so if you cannot find your desired seat, please check at a Midori-no-madoguchi.

Travel Agencies

Pre-ordered bento boxes and sweets may be sold through "tabiwa by WESTER," while travel packages combining train travel and accommodation may be sold through "tabiwa Travel." Please check the purchase conditions, as some products require separate procedures for seat tickets and meal packages.

How to Purchase for International Visitors

Visitors to Japan can also use e5489 or station ticket offices. Even if you have a pass such as JR Pass, additional charges may apply for Green Car seats and special seating on the "HANA AKARI" train, depending on the type of pass and the seat you choose. Do not assume that you can board with just a pass; please check the applicable conditions when making your seat reservation.

In particular, the sales procedures for Superior Green Car seats and box seats may differ from those for regular Green Car reserved seats.

Is a Physical Ticket Required?

If you reserve a regular ticket through e5489, you will need to pick it up at a designated ticket vending machine or a Midori-no-madoguchi before boarding. If you purchase a "Sightseeing Train Ticketless" ticket, you can use it without receiving a paper limited express ticket, etc. However, you will need an IC card or another ticket for the basic fare portion.

Whether or not you need to pick up a ticket depends on the product you purchased. Please check the reservation completion screen to see if you need to pick up your ticket or if you can use it ticketless.

• Limited Express Price, Ticket and Timetable - Ekitan

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

IC cards such as ICOCA can be used for the basic fare portion within their service area. However, since the "HANA AKARI" train consists entirely of Green Cars, you will need to purchase a Green Car ticket, limited express ticket, etc., separately from your IC card. Depending on the season, the train may run outside the IC card service area, so it may not be usable for the entire route.

You cannot board the "HANA AKARI" train using only contactless credit card payment. Please purchase your seat ticket in advance via e5489 or at a ticket office.

Even when using an IC card, please be prepared to show the ticketless service screen for your reserved seat or your paper ticket.

Seating Information for "HANA AKARI"

Seat Types (All Seats Reserved)

The "HANA AKARI" is a three-car train modified from the KiHa 189 series, and all cars are Green Cars. There are no non-reserved seats or ordinary cars.

Distinctive Seating

The train's interior is designed to evoke the image of a "basket" or a "large hall." The decor features motifs of flowers and plants that color Japan's four seasons, and displays of crafts and art from various locations along the route. Wi-Fi is available on board, and there are power outlets in Car 1.

Large Luggage Storage Area

If you are bringing large luggage, please ensure that it does not obstruct the aisles or the area around your seat. It is recommended to check with the crew upon boarding regarding the location and usage conditions of the luggage storage area.

Barrier-Free Facilities

Wheelchair-accessible facilities and available seating may be limited. If you require assistance or need to check facilities, please contact JR West before making a reservation.

The sales method and the number of passengers allowed vary depending on the seat. If you wish to reserve a box seat or a Superior Green Car seat, please check the seat type when making your reservation.

 

 

Enjoy Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and Onboard Gourmet Food on the "HANA AKARI" Train

Bento boxes and sweets made with ingredients from the service area may be sold by advance reservation only. For the summer of 2026, reservations will be made through "tabiwa by WESTER" and picked up at designated stations or on the train. Purchases are only available to passengers traveling on the section of the line that includes the pick-up station. Attendants will be on board, and beverages, souvenirs from along the route, and "HANA AKARI" goods may be sold in the lounge of Car 2.

Meal items must be reserved separately from your seat ticket. Please check the sales period, pick-up station, and change/refund conditions.

Points to Note When Riding "HANA AKARI"

The route of the "HANA AKARI" train changes seasonally. If you make a reservation based on past operating information, it may not match the current route and stations where the train stops. First, check the route and operating dates for your travel season on the official website, and then make your seat reservation. All cars are Green Cars and there are no non-reserved seats, so advance reservations are required.

If you plan to use the pre-booked meal service, please secure your train seat in advance. Please check JR West's train operation information on the day of travel, as cancellations and service changes may occur.

Summary

"HANA AKARI" is a sightseeing train operated by JR West, with all Green Cars that changes its operating area seasonally. It features a Superior Green Car in Car 1, individual seats and box seats in Cars 2 and 3, and an interior space incorporating handcrafted items. In the summer of 2026, it will operate on a route from Osaka Station, around Lake Biwa, and heading to either Ogoto Onsen Station or Otsu Station. Reservations can be made through e5489, Midori-no-madoguchi, and travel agencies, but the sales method varies depending on the seat.

The operating routes, times, and meal contents change seasonally. Please check the latest operating information before making a reservation and plan a train journey to enjoy the scenery of Lake Biwa and various parts of western Japan, as well as the charm of each region.

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.