Timetable, Fares, and Ticket Purchasing Information for "HINABI SHIMOKITA"

This article provides information on the JR East temporary rapid train "HINABI SHIMOKITA," which operates between Hachinohe Station and Ōminato Station, including its timetable, fares, stops, seating information, how to buy tickets, whether ticketing is required, and IC card compatibility. Since it operates on limited days, please check the operating dates and ticket sales conditions before traveling.
The information in this article is current as of July 2026. Operating days, times, 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.
"HINABI SHIMOKITA" is a temporary rapid train operated by JR East, running between Hachinohe Station and Ōminato Station using the sightseeing train "HINABI (陽旅)". It runs directly on the Aoimori Railway Line and the JR Ōminato Line, and all seats are reserved. Car 1 is a Green Car reserved seating car, and Car 2 is a Standard Car reserved seating car.

What is "HINABI SHIMOKITA"?

"HINABI SHIMOKITA" is a JR East sightseeing train themed around the nature and lifestyle of Tohoku. The Ōminato Line runs from Noheji Station northward along the Shimokita Peninsula to Ōminato Station. The Ōminato Line is known as the northernmost railway line on Honshu. Between Hachinohe and Noheji, it passes through the Aoimori Railway, a third-sector railway company. The Shimokita Peninsula is known for its unique landscapes, such as Mount Osore and Hotokegaura.

Train features and popular points

The charm of "HINABI SHIMOKITA" lies in the fact that you can enjoy the northernmost railway line on Honshu from the comfort of your train. From the train windows, you can see the calm waters of Mutsu Bay and the scenery of the Shimokita Peninsula. The train may slow down in sections with good views. Mount Osore is a sacred site counted as one of Japan's three great sacred sites. Lake Usoriyama on Mount Osore is impressive with its emerald green surface. Hotokegaura is a scenic spot with a coastline lined with strangely shaped rocks. Oma is known nationwide for its tuna fishing. The Shimokita Peninsula is home to Cape Oma, the northernmost point of Honshu. 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 train windows changes greatly depending on the season, so it is recommended to choose the time of year according to your purpose. The Ominato Line runs along Mutsu Bay for a long section. The Shimokita Peninsula is also known for Cape Shiriya, where the Kanchidachi horses live. Mutsu City is the central city of the Shimokita Peninsula.

Timetable for "HINABI SHIMOKITA"

"HINABI SHIMOKITA" is a train that operates on limited days. Please check the actual operating days and times on Ekitan or the railway company's official website.

Downbound (towards Ōminato Station) timetable

Timetable for northbound trains (towards Hachinohe Station)

The "HINABI SHIMOKITA" train operates only on select days (mainly Saturdays, Sundays, and public 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. As it is a temporary rapid train, the number of trains running varies from day to day. If you have connecting trains or buses, it's advisable to choose connections that allow ample time before arrival.

• Limited Express Fare, Ticket and Timetable - Ekitan

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

The "HINABI SHIMOKITA" is a train that operates mainly on weekends and holidays. Operating days are announced in advance, so please be sure to check if you plan to ride it. During winter, delays or cancellations may occur due to snow and strong winds.

Operating section of "HINABI SHIMOKITA"

Main sections

• Hachinohe Station to Noheji Station (Aoimori Railway)
• Noheji Station to Shimokita Station (Ōminato Line)
• Shimokita Station to Ōminato Station (Ōminato Line)

Ōminato Station is a base station for sightseeing on the Shimokita Peninsula. Mount Osore can be accessed by bus from Shimokita Station. Mount Osore is one of Japan's three most sacred sites and boasts a unique landscape. Hotokegaura is a scenic spot of strangely shaped rocks on the coast of Sai Village. Ōma Cape is known as the northernmost point of Honshu. Ōma tuna is highly regarded throughout Japan. Mutsu Yokohama is a region known for its rapeseed fields. 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 reassuring to check the return train and bus schedules as well. Noheji Station is a station where the Ōminato Line and the Aoimori Railway connect. Aomori boasts the highest apple production in Japan.

Stations where "HINABI SHIMOKITA" stops

Main stops

• Hachinohe Station
• Noheji Station
• Mutsu-Yokohama Station
• Shimokita Station
• Ōminato Station

The stations where the train stops may vary depending on the operating day and the specific train. Please check the timetable for the most up-to-date information on the stations where the train stops.

The Fare for "HINABI SHIMOKITA"

Representative section fare

The fare for "HINABI SHIMOKITA" requires a regular train ticket for the section you are traveling on, plus an 840 yen reserved seat ticket for a regular car. Since fares are added for sections including the Aoimori Railway line, please specify your travel section and check the total fare on the Ekitan website.

Breakdown of Train Ticket and Reserved Seat Fare

The fare for "HINABI SHIMOKITA" is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the reserved seat fare. The section between Hachinohe and Noheji is operated by the Aoimori Railway, so the fare is calculated separately from the JR line. When purchasing tickets, make sure you have both the basic fare ticket and the reserved seat ticket. JR reserved seat fares are set according to the distance traveled, and the amount may vary depending on whether it is a regular season, peak season, or off-season. The fare is divided into the "basic fare" for the journey to your destination and the "reserved seat fare" for riding the temporary rapid train. You must purchase both to ride the temporary rapid train, so please note that you cannot ride the temporary rapid train with just a basic fare ticket.

Fare for the section of the Aoimori Railway

The "HINABI SHIMOKITA" train runs between Hachinohe and Noheji via the Aoimori Railway line, which is not a JR line. Because this section is not a JR line, JR free passes such as the JAPAN RAIL PASS may not be valid. In that case, you will need to pay the fare separately. When purchasing your ticket, be sure to check the route.

How to buy tickets for "HINABI SHIMOKITA"

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 peak seasons, 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 the Shimokita Peninsula with train travel.

How to Buy for Foreign Tourists

The "HINABI SHIMOKITA" is a JR East train, but it travels via the Aoimori Railway line. If you are using the JAPAN RAIL PASS, the Aoimori Railway section is not covered, and you may need to pay an additional fare. All seats are reserved, so you will need to obtain a seat reservation ticket separately. Some station ticket offices offer information in foreign languages. Special tickets for international tourists may have limited purchase conditions and sales locations, so it is advisable to check before you travel.

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?

IC cards cannot be used on the Ōminato Line. You will need to prepare to purchase tickets with cash or from a ticket vending machine. While some transportation IC cards can be used across regions through 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.

It is not possible to use only transportation IC cards for the entire section between Hachinohe Station and Ōminato Station. Since the route includes the Aoimori Railway Line, please also check the applicable conditions of your ticket or pass.

We do not support contactless payment via credit card for boarding at ticket gates.

Seating information for "HINABI SHIMOKITA"

Seat type

If you are riding a reserved-seat train, you will need a reserved seat ticket in addition to your regular train ticket.

Distinctive seating

The train's interior is designed with inspiration from the nature and crafts of Tohoku. The seats are arranged to allow passengers to enjoy the scenery outside the window. Seats on the Mutsu Bay side offer views of the calm sea. As it is a hybrid train, it is quiet and provides a comfortable journey. The scenery changes depending on the direction of travel, so it is a good idea to check the seat location when making a reservation. Window seats are suitable for those who want to enjoy the scenery outside the window, while aisle seats are suitable for those who prioritize ease of boarding and alighting. For long journeys, it is recommended to check the 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

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

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

On the "HINABI SHIMOKITA" train, snacks and drinks may be sold on board. Tuna from Oma is a representative delicacy of the Shimokita Peninsula. Scallops from Mutsu Bay are also a representative seafood of Aomori. In Hachinohe, senbei-jiru (rice cracker soup) and squid dishes are well-known local specialties. 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. Commemorative goods may be available in limited quantities, so it's best to purchase them early. When eating or drinking on board, please be considerate of others by avoiding foods with strong odors to ensure a pleasant experience. Please dispose of empty containers and trash in the trash cans on board or at the station after disembarking.

Points to note when riding "HINABI SHIMOKITA"

The "HINABI SHIMOKITA" train operates only on limited days, so be sure to check the operating dates before planning your trip. All seats are reserved, so you will not be able to board without a reserved seat. The Aoimori Railway section may not be covered by JR line passes. To reach Mount Osore and Hotokegaura, you will need to travel by bus or car from the station. During winter, delays or cancellations may occur due to snow and strong winds. Before boarding, be sure to 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.

Mount Osore is closed during the winter months. Please check the operating status on the day of your trip using Ekitan or the railway company's official website before boarding.

Summary

"HINABI SHIMOKITA" is a JR East sightseeing train connecting Hachinohe Station and Ōminato Station. It runs along the northernmost line of Honshu, heading towards the Shimokita Peninsula, known for Mount Osore and Ōma. 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 your trip around the Shimokita Peninsula on "HINABI SHIMOKITA," which aims for the northernmost point of Honshu.

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.