Timetable, Fares, and Ticket Purchasing Information for the "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" Train - Ekitan

This article provides information on the JR East rapid train "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU", which operates between Aizu-Wakamatsu Station and Tadami Station, including its timetable, fares, stations where the train stops, seating information, how to buy tickets, whether a physical ticket is required, and IC card usage status. Since it operates on limited operating days, please check the operating dates and ticket release conditions before traveling. A basic fare ticket and a reserved seat ticket are required to board, but a limited express fare is not required.

The information in this article is current as of July 2026. Operating days, times, fares, and ticket release conditions may change, so please check the latest information on Ekitan or the railway company's official website before using the service.

The "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" is a rapid train operated by JR East that uses the trolley-style train "View Coaster Kazekko". It operates between Aizu-Wakamatsu Station and Tadami Station, and all seats are reserved. A basic fare ticket and a reserved seat ticket are required to board, but a limited express fare is not required.

ItemContent
Train Name"KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU"
Operating CompanyJR East
Main Operating SectionsAizu-Wakamatsu Station to Tadami Station
Main Starting and Ending StationsAizu-Wakamatsu Station / Tadami Station
Operating FrequencyLimited operating days (mainly Saturdays and Sundays)
Estimated Travel TimeAizu-Wakamatsu to Tadami: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
SeatAll seats are reserved.

The

What is "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU"?

The "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" is a temporary sightseeing train operated to allow passengers to enjoy the scenery along the Tadami Line. The "View Coaster Kazekko" is a JR East joyful train whose windows can be removed to create an open-air interior. The Tadami Line runs from Aizu-Wakamatsu Station through Tadami to Koide Station in Niigata Prefecture. It was closed for a long period due to a heavy rain disaster in 2011, but resumed operation on the entire line in 2022. The railway bridge over the Tadami River is a popular photography spot for photography enthusiasts.

Train Features and Popular Points

The charm of the "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" lies in the fact that you can enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Tadami Line from the open, windowless interior. The views from the railway bridges, including the Tadami River First Bridge, are iconic landscapes of the Tadami Line. The train may slow down in sections with particularly good views. Inside the train, there are rows of box seats that give you a warm, wooden feel. The sight of mist rising from the Tadami River gorge is known for its fantastical beauty. The autumn foliage season is when the mountainsides change color, making the scenery outside the train window the most beautiful. Aizu-Wakamatsu is dotted with historical sites such as Tsuruga Castle and Iimoriyama. Tadami is a region known for its primeval beech forests and UNESCO Eco-Park. Checking the stations where the train 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 outside the window changes greatly depending on the season, so it is recommended to choose the time of year according to your purpose.

Timetable for "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU"

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

Downbound (towards Tadami Station) Timetable

StationsTime
Aizu-Wakamatsu Station Depart10:10
Tadami Station Arrive12:19

Upbound (towards Aizu-Wakamatsu Station) Timetable

StationsTime
Tadami Station Depart13:19
Aizu-Wakamatsu Station Arrive15:36

The "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" train operates only on limited operating days (mainly Saturdays, Sundays, and 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 train, the number of services varies by operating day. If you have connecting trains or buses, it's advisable to choose connections that allow ample time for connection.

Important Information Regarding Operating Days and Service Suspension

The "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" is a train that operates mainly on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. The operating days are announced in advance, so please be sure to check if you plan to ride it. The Tadami Line is susceptible to the effects of heavy rain and snow, so service suspensions may occur.

Operating Sections of the "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" Train

Main Sections

  • Aizu-Wakamatsu Station to Aizu-Bange Station (Tadami Line)
  • Aizu-Bange Station to Aizu-Kawaguchi Station (Tadami Line)
  • Aizu-Kawaguchi Station to Tadami Station (Tadami Line)

Tadami Station is the gateway to Oku-Aizu. The Tadami River First Bridge Viewpoint is a representative photography spot on the Tadami Line. There are many bridges spanning the Tadami River around Aizu-Miyashita Station. Aizu-Yanagizu is known as the birthplace of Enzoji Temple and Akabeko. Aizu-Wakamatsu has Tsuruga Castle and Iimoriyama, which is associated with the Byakkotai. Ouchi-juku can be accessed by changing trains on the Aizu Railway. The beech forest of Tadami is registered as a UNESCO Eco-Park. As getting to the surrounding tourist spots mainly involves buses and walking, it is a good idea to check the local transportation methods in advance. There are sometimes tourist information centers around the stations where you can get maps and brochures. On lines with limited operating frequency, it is a good idea to check the return train and bus schedules as well.

A traveler drinking coffee at the station.

Stations Where the "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" Train Stops

Main Stations Where the Train Stops

  • Aizu-Wakamatsu Station
  • Aizu-Bange Station
  • Aizu-Miyashita Station
  • Aizu-Kawaguchi Station
  • Tadami 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.

Fares for the "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" Train

Representative Section Fares

Representative SectionBasic Fare TicketReserved Seat TicketTotal
Aizu-Wakamatsu Station to Tadami Station1,690 yen840 yen2,530 yen

The "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" train has all reserved seating.

Basic Fare Ticket and Reserved Seat Fare Breakdown

The fare for the "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" is the sum of the basic fare ticket (fare) to your destination and the reserved seat ticket. Since all seats are reserved, you cannot board without securing a seat. When purchasing tickets, make sure you have both the basic fare ticket and the seat ticket. JR reserved seat fares are set according to the distance traveled, and the amount may vary depending on whether it is a peak season, off-season, or regular season. The fare is divided into the "basic fare ticket (fare)" for the journey itself and the "reserved seat fare" for riding a reserved seat train. You must purchase both to be able to ride a reserved seat train, so please note that you cannot ride a reserved seat train with just a basic fare ticket.

About "View Coaster Kazekko"

The "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" is a rapid train. The fare is the sum of the basic fare ticket and the reserved seat fare; there is no limited express fare.

How to Buy Tickets for the "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" Train

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 boarding date at 10:00 AM. When making a reservation, you specify the boarding date, boarding section, train name, and number of people, 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 specific 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 ticket office, 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 may offer travel packages that combine a ride on the Tadami Line with accommodation in Aizu.

How to Buy for International Tourists

The "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" is a JR East train, so it can be used with the JR Pass or JR East Area Pass. Even when using a pass, all seats are reserved, so you will need to obtain a separate seat reservation ticket. Some ticket offices offer information in foreign languages. Special tickets for international visitors 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 ticket through "Eki-net," you may still need to pick up a paper ticket at a reserved seat ticket 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 IC Cards or Credit Card Touch Payment?

There are sections of the Tadami Line where IC cards cannot be used. It is advisable to prepare to purchase tickets with cash or from a ticket machine. While some transportation IC cards can be used across regions due to the nationwide mutual usage service, the usable area is determined by each railway company, so be sure to check in advance whether your boarding section is within their service area.

There are sections of the Tadami Line where IC cards cannot be used. If you plan to travel all the way from Aizu-Wakamatsu Station to Tadami Station, please prepare a paper basic fare ticket and reserved seat ticket in advance.

Credit card touch payment is not supported for boarding at ticket gates.

Seat Information for the "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" Train

Seat Types

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

Seat TypeContent
Ordinary Car Reserved SeatWooden box seats

Distinctive Seating

The train's interior features warm, wooden box seats. With the windows removed, you can enjoy the scenery while feeling the breeze. Seats on the Tadami River side offer stunning views of the gorge. Depending on the weather, it can get chilly, so it's a good idea to bring a jacket. The scenery changes depending on the direction of travel, so it's best to check your seat location when making a reservation. Window seats are ideal 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 booking for a more comfortable experience.

Large Luggage Storage Area

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

Barrier-Free Facilities

There are steps inside the train. If you will be using a wheelchair, it is recommended to contact JR East's ticket office in advance. Multipurpose rooms and wheelchair-accessible facilities may vary depending on the train car and train set.

Bento box and tea

Enjoy Station Bento Boxes and Onboard Gourmet Food on the "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" Train

On the "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" train, snacks and drinks may be sold on board. Local Aizu cuisine includes Kozuyu, Sauce Katsudon, and Wappa Meshi. In Tadami, you can enjoy mountain delicacies such as wild vegetables and soba. Aizu is also known as a sake-producing region, with many sake breweries. Onboard sales vary depending on the service 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 board, please be considerate of others by avoiding foods with strong odors. Dispose of empty containers and trash in the trash cans on board or at the station after disembarking.

Points to Note When Riding the "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" Train

The "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" train operates only on limited operating 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. With the windows removed, the train may be affected by the weather. The Tadami Line is susceptible to heavy rain and snow, so be sure to check the operating status. Due to its popularity, reserved seats may sell out quickly. 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 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 operating frequency is limited, be sure to check the return train schedule as well. Before boarding, please check the train service status for the day on Ekitan or the railway company's official website.

Summary

The "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU" is a sightseeing train operated by JR East that connects Aizu-Wakamatsu Station and Tadami Station. With its removable windows, the "View Coaster Kazekko" allows passengers to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Tadami Line along with the breeze. Since it operates on limited operating days and all seats are reserved, be sure to check the operating dates and secure your seat in advance.

Enjoy a trip through Oku-Aizu on the "KAZEKKO TADAMISEN MANKITSU", a train that takes you along a scenic route attracting attention from around the world.


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.