Limited Express "MAIZURU" Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR West Limited Express "MAIZURU" connecting Kyoto Station and Higashi-Maizuru Station, including its timetable, fares for representative routes, stations served, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. As a major access limited express train to the port town of Maizuru, including the Maizuru Red Brick Warehouses, this article summarizes key points 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.
The Limited Express "MAIZURU" is a JR West limited express train connecting Kyoto Station and Higashi-Maizuru Station via the JR San'in Main Line and JR Maizuru Line. It is operated using 287 series electric trains, and many services run coupled with the Limited Express "Kinosaki" to Fukuchiyama Station, where they are separated and continue on the JR Maizuru Line. All ordinary cars have reserved seats, and there are also Green Cars. In the March 2011 timetable revision, it was reorganized into its current system along with the Limited Express "Kinosaki" and Limited Express "Hashidate" services. The train's exterior features a calm color scheme inspired by the tranquil waters of Maizuru Bay. The 287 series electric trains are also used on the Limited Express "Kinosaki" and Limited Express "Hashidate" services, and play a vital role in supporting limited express services across the San'in and Tango regions. Since its inception, it has steadily supported users as a means of accessing northern Kyoto Prefecture for tourism. Item Content Train Name "MAIZURU" Operating Company JR West Main Operating Sections Kyoto Station to Higashi-Maizuru Station (via JR San'in Main Line and JR Maizuru Line) Main Starting and Ending Stations Kyoto Station / Higashi-Maizuru Station Number of Trains Operating Several round trips per day Estimated Travel Time Kyoto to Higashi-Maizuru: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes Seating All ordinary cars have reserved seats, Green Car 
Table of Contents
- What is the Limited Express "MAIZURU"?
- Limited Express "MAIZURU" Timetable
- Operating Sections of the Limited Express "MAIZURU"
- Stations Served by the Limited Express "MAIZURU"
- Fares for the Limited Express "MAIZURU"
- How to Buy Tickets for the Limited Express "MAIZURU"
- Is a Physical Ticket Required?
- Can IC Cards or Credit Card Touch Payments Be Used?
- Seating Information for the Limited Express "MAIZURU"
- Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and In-Train Gourmet Food on the Limited Express "MAIZURU"
- Points to Note When Riding the Limited Express "MAIZURU"
- Summary
What is the Limited Express "MAIZURU"?
The Limited Express "MAIZURU" is a JR West limited express train connecting Kyoto and Maizuru. The train's name is derived from the city of Maizuru, its destination. Many services run coupled with the Limited Express "Kinosaki" between Kyoto Station and Fukuchiyama Station, where they are separated, and then continue on the JR Maizuru Line to Higashi-Maizuru Station. This train provides convenient access to Maizuru Port, which is also known as a base for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. Maizuru has a history of developing as one of the leading naval ports on the Sea of Japan side, and remains an important base for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force today. The train's name, "MAIZURU," is a straightforward naming that simply uses the name of its destination city, Maizuru.
Train Features and Popular Points
The appeal of the Limited Express "MAIZURU" lies in its convenience, offering direct access from Kyoto to Maizuru without transfers. Maizuru City boasts the "Maizuru Red Brick Warehouses," a group of Meiji-era brick warehouses, some of which are designated as important cultural properties and still remain today. A cruise around Maizuru Port, where Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force vessels are docked, is also a popular tourist activity. The Maizuru Red Brick Warehouses were built in the Meiji era as warehouses for the former Imperial Japanese Navy and are now used as museums and event halls. The red brick warehouses are sometimes illuminated at night, offering a different, more magical atmosphere than during the day. From Nishi-Maizuru Station, there are also bus routes to the Tango region, making it possible to tour the area around Amanohashidate. The train's coupling and uncoupling operations at Fukuchiyama Station are a popular sight for railway enthusiasts. Onboard attendants provide commentary on Maizuru's history and attractions, further enhancing the enjoyment of the trip.
Limited Express "MAIZURU" Timetable
*The Limited Express "MAIZURU" operates several round trips per day, and most services are coupled with the Limited Express "Kinosaki".
Southbound (Towards Higashi-Maizuru) Timetable
| Stations Served | Example 1 | Example 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Departing Kyoto | Morning | Afternoon |
| Departing Fukuchiyama | ― | ― |
| Arriving Higashi-Maizuru | Approx. 1 hr 40 min later | Approx. 1 hr 40 min later |
Northbound (Towards Kyoto) Timetable
| Stations Served | Example 1 | Example 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Departing Higashi-Maizuru | Morning | Afternoon |
| Departing Fukuchiyama | ― | ― |
| Arriving Kyoto | Approx. 1 hr 40 min later | Approx. 1 hr 40 min later |
The Limited Express "MAIZURU" operates several round trips a day, mainly around Kyoto Station. Many of the services are coupled and uncoupled with the Limited Express "Kinosaki" at Fukuchiyama Station, so it is important to be careful not to board the wrong car.
Important Information Regarding Operating Days and Service Suspensions
The Limited Express "MAIZURU" operates daily throughout the year. However, it is susceptible to snowfall during the winter months, which may cause service suspensions or delays. The JR Maizuru Line is particularly affected by the climate of the Sea of Japan side, so extra caution is advised during the winter.
Operating Sections of the Limited Express "MAIZURU"
Main Sections
- Kyoto Station to Fukuchiyama Station (JR San'in Main Line)
- Fukuchiyama Station to Higashi-Maizuru Station (JR Maizuru Line)
Higashi-Maizuru Station is the gateway to the Maizuru Red Brick Warehouses. Maizuru is known as a base for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and has a unique atmosphere befitting a port city. JMSDF vessels are anchored in Maizuru Bay, and tours that allow you to view them up close from cruise ships are popular. Tanabe Castle Ruins are known as a castle associated with Hosokawa Yusai and are now maintained as Maizuru Park, a place of relaxation for citizens. The Maizuru Repatriation Memorial Museum is a facility that tells the history of post-war repatriation and displays exhibits filled with prayers for peace. From Higashi-Maizuru Station, access to the Amanohashidate area is also relatively good, and it is possible to plan an itinerary that tours the entire Tango Peninsula. 
Stations Served by the Limited Express "MAIZURU"
Main Stations Served
- Kyoto Station
- Sonobe Station
- Fukuchiyama Station
- Nishi-Maizuru Station
- Higashi-Maizuru Station
*The stations served may vary depending on the service.
Fares for the Limited Express "MAIZURU"
Representative Section Fares
| Section | Total Fare (Adult, Estimated) | Basic Fare | Limited Express Surcharge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kyoto Station to Higashi-Maizuru Station | Please check the latest fares on Ekitan or the railway company's official website. | ― | ― |
*Fares may vary depending on whether it is peak or off-peak season.
Breakdown of Basic Fare and Limited Express Surcharge
The fare for the Limited Express "MAIZURU" is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the limited express surcharge. All seats in ordinary cars are reserved. The limited express surcharge varies depending on the section of travel and purchase conditions. Green Cars offer more spacious seating than regular reserved seats and are suitable for long-distance travel.
Package Deals Including Maizuru Sightseeing
Travel agencies sometimes sell travel packages that include admission tickets to the Maizuru Red Brick Warehouses and a Maizuru Bay cruise. If you want to thoroughly enjoy the port town of Maizuru, you should consider using such a package. Around Nishi-Maizuru Station, there are many historical sites that tell the story of Maizuru's history, such as the ruins of Tanabe Castle. Maizuru is also home to the Yura River, and you can enjoy the rich nature throughout the four seasons. The Maizuru Repatriation Memorial Museum houses materials that have been registered as a UNESCO World Memory Heritage site, and many visitors come to learn about history. At the Maizuru Self-Defense Forces Pier, there is a free area where you can see destroyers up close, making it easy to visit. The Maizuru Bay cruise is a popular activity that allows you to enjoy a panoramic view of the red brick warehouses and destroyers from the sea.
How to Buy Tickets for the Limited Express "MAIZURU"
e5489 (Online Reservation)
JR West's online reservation service "e5489" allows you to purchase ticketless limited express tickets using a credit card. Limited express tickets go on sale one month before the date of travel.
Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and Midori-no-madoguchi
You can purchase limited express tickets at the station's reserved seat ticket machines or at the Midori-no-madoguchi. Since all seats in ordinary cars are reserved, please purchase your reserved seat limited express ticket before boarding.
Travel Agencies
Major travel agencies also handle Limited Express "MAIZURU" tickets and tour packages that include sightseeing in Maizuru.
How to Purchase for International Tourists
The Limited Express "MAIZURU" is a JR West train, so it can be used with the JR Pass. Even when using the pass, if you wish to use a reserved seat, you will need to obtain a separate seat reservation ticket. The JR West section of the line is covered by the pass.
*The types of passes eligible and the applicable conditions may change.
Is a Physical Ticket Required?
If you purchased your ticket through the "e5489" ticketless service, you may be able to board the train by linking it to your smartphone screen or IC card. If you purchased your ticket at a designated seat ticket machine or at a ticket office, you will need to receive a paper limited express ticket before boarding.
*Whether or not a physical ticket is required depends on the type of reservation service.
Can IC Cards or Credit Card Touch Payments Be Used?
On the sections of the Limited Express "MAIZURU" line that are included in the ICOCA area, you can use a transportation IC card for the basic fare portion of the ticket. However, some sections of the JR Maizuru Line may be outside the IC card usage area. The limited express surcharge portion cannot be paid using the balance on your IC card and must be purchased as a separate limited express ticket in advance.
On the routes served by the Limited Express "MAIZURU," contactless payment via credit card is not available for boarding at ticket gates.
*Please note that you cannot ride the limited express train using only your IC card. A limited express surcharge must be purchased separately. Some sections of the JR Maizuru Line may be outside the IC card usage area.
Seating Information for the Limited Express "MAIZURU"
Seat Types
The Limited Express "MAIZURU" is operated using 287 series electric trains and consists of all reserved seats in ordinary cars and Green Cars. Seat Type Content Ordinary Car Reserved Seat Standard 2+2 seating Unreserved Seats None (All ordinary cars have reserved seats) Green Car Premium seats, with footrests
Distinctive Seating
The 287 series train is a tilting train, providing a comfortable ride even on the winding sections of the JR San'in Main Line and JR Maizuru Line. Some trains have power outlets at every seat, making them suitable for business travelers. The seat tables are large, making it convenient for taking a break or eating while enjoying the scenery. Some seats are positioned to face Maizuru Bay, allowing passengers to enjoy the view from the window even more. The windows are large, ensuring a clear view of the scenery along the JR San'in Main Line and JR Maizuru Line. Green Cars feature spacious seat pitch and footrests, ensuring comfort even on long journeys. The seat fabric uses calming colors, providing a comfortable seating experience even during long rides.
Large Luggage Storage Area
A large luggage storage area is provided within the train set.
Barrier-Free Facilities
Wheelchair-accessible seating is available on the train. If you will be using a wheelchair, we recommend contacting JR West's ticket office or information center in advance.
*Details of seating arrangements may vary depending on the train configuration.
Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and In-Train Gourmet Food on the Limited Express "MAIZURU"
There is no in-train sales service on the Limited Express "MAIZURU". If you want to enjoy a meal, it is recommended to prepare one in advance at an ekiben shop or stall around Kyoto Station. In Maizuru, you can also enjoy local specialties such as Maizuru kamaboko (fish cake). Maizuru kamaboko is a traditional flavor that has been loved by locals for many years and is sold in many souvenir shops. Maizuru yellowtail is known as winter yellowtail, and you can enjoy its particularly fatty flavor during the winter months.
*Onboard sales are not available.
Points to Note When Riding the Limited Express "MAIZURU"
The Limited Express "MAIZURU" is an all-reserved-seat train. Many services are coupled and uncoupled with the Limited Express "Kinosaki" at Fukuchiyama Station, so be careful not to board the wrong car. When visiting the Maizuru Red Brick Warehouses, it's a good idea to check the opening hours as well for a smoother experience. Also, some Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force vessel tours require advance reservations, so it's best to check the official website. If you plan to visit the Maizuru Repatriation Memorial Museum, it's also a good idea to check the bus access from Higashi-Maizuru Station. The schedule for public viewings of destroyers is irregular, so it's best to check the official information from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Maizuru District before visiting.
Since there is no onboard service, please prepare any meals you plan to eat before boarding. During winter, the service is susceptible to snowfall, so it's a good idea to check the operating status beforehand.
Summary
The Limited Express "MAIZURU" is a JR West limited express train connecting Kyoto Station and Higashi-Maizuru Station, and is a major means of access to the port town of Maizuru, including the Maizuru Red Brick Warehouses. Ordinary car reserved seats and Green Cars are available, and the JR Pass can also be used. A distinctive feature is that it couples and uncouples with the Limited Express "Kinosaki" at Fukuchiyama Station. This train supports a journey to Maizuru, a unique port town where you can see historical buildings and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force vessels. It is a limited express train that allows you to discover the unique charm of the port town of Maizuru, which can be accessed from Kyoto without changing trains. It is a limited express train where you can enjoy the unique scenery of the port town, where Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force vessels and historical buildings are interwoven. It is a limited express train that allows you to discover the hidden charms of the port town of Maizuru, which can be fully enjoyed even on a day trip from Kyoto. It is a valuable travel destination where you can enjoy both the history as a naval port and the beautiful scenery of the red brick warehouses. Be sure to experience the unique charm of this port town at least once.
Enjoy a special trip from Kyoto to Maizuru with the Limited Express "MAIZURU," which supports your journey to Maizuru, a city with historic red brick warehouses and the unique charm of a port town.
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