"HIGH RAIL 1375" timetable, fares, and how to buy tickets

This article provides a comprehensive overview of JR East's sightseeing train "HIGH RAIL 1375," which connects Kobuchizawa Station and Komoro Station. It includes timetables, fares for representative sections, stations, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. This sightseeing train, themed around stargazing and running on the Koumi Line (Japan's highest-altitude railway line), organizes key points you'll want 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.
"HIGH RAIL 1375" is a JR East sightseeing rapid train that debuted in July 2017, connecting Kobuchizawa Station and Komoro Station via the Koumi Line. It operates with a specially modified KiHa 100/110 series train set and runs along the highest elevation section of the JR line, including Nobeyama Station at an altitude of 1,375m. At night, it also operates as a stargazing train, creating a special journey as "HIGH RAIL 1375 Starry Sky." All seats are reserved. The name "HIGH RAIL 1375" has attracted the attention of many railway fans and travelers as a unique branding that emphasizes the high altitude. The special train operates with a two-car set and features a calm interior that makes extensive use of wood. Vehicle operations may be adjusted according to the season and events, and the content of regular services may differ from that of stargazing services.

What is "HIGH RAIL 1375"?

"HIGH RAIL 1375" is a JR East sightseeing rapid train that debuted on July 15, 2017, running on the Koumi Line. The Koumi Line is known as the highest-altitude JR line in Japan, with the area around Nobeyama Station and Kiyosato Station, its highest points, exceeding 1,300m above sea level. The nickname "HIGH RAIL 1375" is derived from the altitude of Nobeyama Station (1,375m). The Koumi Line connects Kobuchizawa Station in Yamanashi Prefecture and Komoro Station in Nagano Prefecture, and is a popular local line that is entirely non-electrified. The brand name "HIGH RAIL 1375" is a unique name that combines the meanings of high altitude and railway line.

Train features and popular points

The appeal of "HIGH RAIL 1375" lies in the spectacular highland scenery overlooking the Yatsugatake mountain range and the Southern Alps, and the magnificent starry sky that can be enjoyed during nighttime journeys. The area around Nobeyama Plateau is also known for the Nobeyama Radio Observatory of the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan, and its clear air and high altitude make it an ideal environment for stargazing. On nighttime journeys, the lights inside the train are sometimes dimmed to allow passengers to enjoy the starry sky. The Nobeyama Radio Observatory is known for having one of the largest parabolic antenna arrays in Japan, and its visitor facilities are open to the public. While not quite as famous as Achi Village in Nagano Prefecture, which is known as "Japan's best starry sky," the area around Nobeyama is also known as a place where you can enjoy clear night skies. Around Kiyosato Station, there are also tourist facilities that can be enjoyed by families, such as Moegi no Mura. At Moegi no Mura, you can enjoy a variety of activities, including a music box museum and a buffet restaurant.

"HIGH RAIL 1375" Timetable

*"HIGH RAIL 1375" is a sightseeing train with limited operating days. Nighttime services for stargazing may also be scheduled.

Southbound (towards Komoro) timetable

Timetable for northbound trains (towards Kobuchizawa)

"HIGH RAIL 1375" operates approximately 1-2 times a day between Kobuchizawa Station and Komoro Station on operating days. The night service, called "HIGH RAIL Starry Sky," runs from evening to night and may include time for stargazing around Nobeyama Station.

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

"HIGH RAIL 1375" is a sightseeing train with limited operating days. Details of the operating days are announced on the JR East official website as they become available, so it is important to check in advance if you wish to use it. Stargazing may be canceled in case of bad weather. During winter, the train is more susceptible to snow and ice, which may cause delays.

Route of "HIGH RAIL 1375"

Main Sections

• Kobuchizawa Station - Nobeyama Station - Komoro Station (via the Koumi Line)

Komoro Station is the closest station to Komoro Castle Ruins Kaikoen, which is associated with the writer Shimazaki Toson. Nobeyama Station, along the way, is the highest point on the JR line (1,375m above sea level), and the surrounding area is home to the Nobeyama Radio Observatory and fields of highland vegetables. Komoro Castle Ruins Kaikoen is also known as the setting for Shimazaki Toson's poem "Chikuma River Travelogue," and is a popular spot for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. A monument marking the highest point on the JR line is also located near Nobeyama Station, making it a popular photo spot for railway enthusiasts. The area around Saku-Hirose Station is known for its carp farming, and you can enjoy local cuisine using Saku carp.

Stations where "HIGH RAIL 1375" Stops

Main Stops

• Kobuchizawa Station
• Kiyosato Station
• Nobeyama Station
• Saku-Hirose Station (some trains)
• Komoro Station

*The stations where the train stops may vary depending on the day of operation.

"HIGH RAIL 1375" Fare

Representative Section Fare

*"HIGH RAIL 1375" is a rapid train, so reserved seat fares apply instead of limited express fares. Additional charges may apply if you use the stargazing plan.

• Limited Express Fare, Ticket and Timetable - Ekitan

Breakdown of Basic Fare and Reserved Seat Fare

The fare for "HIGH RAIL 1375" is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the reserved seat fare. As it is a rapid train, the reserved seat fare is more affordable than that of regular limited express trains. All seats are reserved; there are no unreserved seats. This fare structure is the same as other JR East sightseeing rapid trains and is more affordable than limited express trains.

Stargazing Plan Fare

The nighttime service, operated as "HIGH RAIL 1375 Starry Sky," may offer special packages that include telescope rentals and expert guided tours of the starry sky. Please check the JR East official website for details. Kiyosato Plateau is known as a summer resort and highland destination, with a variety of tourist facilities including ranches and restaurants. The area around the Yatsugatake Mountains is home to many highland vegetable farms, where agriculture thrives, taking advantage of the cool summer climate to grow lettuce, celery, and other vegetables. Saku carp, raised using the clear water and climate, is known as a highly regarded luxury food product throughout Japan. Ranches overlooking the Yatsugatake Mountains offer activities such as milking, making it a popular spot for families.

How to Buy Tickets for "HIGH RAIL 1375"

Eki-net (Online Reservation)

JR East's online reservation service, "Eki-net," allows you to purchase reserved seat tickets using a credit card. The stargazing tours are particularly popular, so early booking is recommended.

 

 

Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and Ticket Offices

You can also purchase reserved seat tickets at reserved seat ticket machines or Midori-no-madoguchi at the station.

Travel Agencies

Major travel agencies also offer tour packages that include reserved seats on "HIGH RAIL 1375" and stargazing plans.

How to Buy for Foreign Tourists

"HIGH RAIL 1375" is a JR East train, so it can be used with the JR Pass or JR East Pass. The pass covers the basic fare portion without additional charge within the designated section, but you must reserve and pick up your reserved seat ticket before boarding. The entire JR East section is covered by the pass.

*The types of passes eligible and the applicable conditions may change.

Is a Physical Ticket Required?

Tickets purchased through Eki-net may require you to pick up a paper ticket at a designated ticket vending machine at the station, depending on the product. If you purchase tickets at a designated ticket vending machine or Midori-no-madoguchi, you will need to pick up a paper ticket before boarding.

*Whether or not a ticket is required depends on the type of reservation service.

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

Much of the "HIGH RAIL 1375" service route is outside the Suica area. You must purchase your basic fare ticket in advance, and since the reserved seat fare cannot be paid using the balance on your IC card, you must purchase a reserved seat ticket beforehand.

On the "HIGH RAIL 1375" route, contactless payment via credit card is not available at ticket gates.

*Please note that you cannot ride using only an IC card. Reserved seat fares must be purchased separately. Many sections of the Koumi Line are outside the IC card usage area.

Seating Information for "HIGH RAIL 1375"

Seat Types (All Seats Reserved)

"HIGH RAIL 1375" is operated using a specially modified KiHa 100/110 series train set, and all seats are reserved. There are no unreserved seats.

Distinctive seating

Some train cars are equipped with skylights designed to allow passengers to easily gaze at the starry sky. During nighttime operation, the interior lighting is dimmed to create an environment ideal for stargazing. The seats have large tables, making it convenient for taking a break or eating while enjoying the view from the window. The windows are large, ensuring a panoramic view of the Yatsugatake mountain range and the plateau. A major attraction is that you can enjoy comfort comparable to that of a Green Car at the price of a rapid train. Some seats are positioned to allow passengers to easily enjoy the scenery outside regardless of the direction of travel, enhancing the overall satisfaction of the journey.

Large Luggage Storage Area

There is space provided within the train for storing luggage.

Barrier-Free Facilities

The trains used are equipped with barrier-free facilities. If you will be using a wheelchair, we recommend that you contact a JR East ticket office or information center in advance.

*Details of seating arrangements may vary depending on the train configuration.

 

 

Enjoy Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and Onboard Gourmet Food on "HIGH RAIL 1375"

On some "HIGH RAIL 1375" trains, onboard sales service is available. Light meals made with vegetables from the Nobeyama Plateau and menus featuring local Shinshu specialties are sometimes offered. Around Kobuchizawa Station, there are plenty of restaurants using plateau vegetables and shops selling local dairy products. Onboard sales may also offer plateau-specific items such as soft-serve ice cream made with local dairy products.

*Availability of onboard sales varies depending on the train and time of year.

Points to Note When Riding "HIGH RAIL 1375"

"HIGH RAIL 1375" is a sightseeing train with limited operating days, so if you wish to use it, be sure to check the operating days on the JR East official website in advance. If you plan to use the stargazing service, please be aware that it may be canceled due to weather conditions. Also, the stargazing service tends to be particularly popular around the new moon when there is less moonlight. The Koumi Line has many single-track sections, so there may be operational stops for trains to pass each other. We recommend checking the operating day calendar in advance and planning your trip with plenty of leeway.

Because the route runs through high-altitude areas, it can get cold at night, even in summer. If you're taking the stargazing tour, we strongly recommend bringing warm clothing.

Summary

"HIGH RAIL 1375" is a JR East sightseeing rapid train connecting Kobuchizawa Station and Komoro Station, running on the Koumi Line, Japan's highest-altitude railway line. Its greatest attractions are the spectacular views of the Yatsugatake mountain range and the starry sky during nighttime operation. All seats are reserved, so both a basic fare ticket and a reserved seat fare are required, but the fare is more affordable than the limited express fare. The JR Pass can also be used. This is a special train where you can enjoy the magnificent scenery and starry sky that can only be found on Japan's highest-altitude railway line. It is a unique sightseeing train where you can experience the clear air that comes from high altitude and a sky full of stars. It is a valuable sightseeing train that offers a unique experience of traveling on Japan's highest-altitude railway. It is a one-of-a-kind railway experience where you can enjoy the Yatsugatake Mountains, the starry sky, and the food culture of the highlands all at once.

Enjoy a special trip to the Yatsugatake and Nobeyama Plateaus on the "HIGH RAIL 1375," which runs through a plateau at an altitude of 1,375m and allows you to enjoy a sky full of stars.

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.