Timetable, Fares, and Ticket Purchasing Information for "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI"

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR East sightseeing train "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI," which connects Hanamaki Station and Kamaishi Station. It includes timetables, fares for representative sections, stations served, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. As it serves as an access train between the Tono Monogatari region and Sanriku/Kamaishi, 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 "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI" is a JR East sightseeing train connecting Hanamaki Station and Kamaishi Station via the Kamaishi Line. It's a popular train for children, featuring Pokémon characters both inside and out. A playroom is available on board, allowing children to enjoy the journey while playing. All seats are reserved, so advance seat reservations are required. As this train operates only on limited days, it's necessary to check the operating dates if you plan to ride. Along the route are Tono, the setting of the Tono Monogatari (Tales of Tono), and Kamaishi, a port town in the Sanriku region. Since there are similar train names and destinations, it's advisable to check the departure information display before boarding to ensure you get the correct train name and destination.

What is "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI"?

The "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI" is a Pokémon-themed sightseeing train operated by JR East. It began as an initiative to cheer up children in the areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake. The Kamaishi Line runs from Hanamaki Station through Tono to Kamaishi Station. The Kamaishi Line is also said to have been the inspiration for Kenji Miyazawa's "Night on the Galactic Railroad." Each station along the line has an Esperanto nickname.

Train Features and Highlights

The appeal of the "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI" lies in the fact that you can enjoy the world of Pokémon inside the train. There is a playroom on board, providing a space for children to play. Pokémon characters are also featured on the seats, adding a fun touch to family trips. Tono is a village of folk tales, known as the setting for "Tono Monogatari" (Tales of Tono). In Tono, there are many spots related to folk tales, such as Kappa-buchi (Kappa Pool) and Denshoen (Folklore Park). Kamaishi is known as the birthplace of modern ironmaking and is home to the Hashino Iron Mine, a World Heritage Site. Kamaishi is also known as a rugby town and is home to the Unosumai Reconstruction Stadium. From the train windows, you can enjoy the scenery of the Kitakami Mountains. 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 Esperanto nicknames given to each station on the Kamaishi Line are inspired by Kenji Miyazawa.

"POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI" Timetable

*The "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI" is a train that operates only on limited days.

Downbound (towards Kamaishi Station) Timetable

Upbound (towards Hanamaki Station) Timetable

The "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI" operates only on limited 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. There are more trains during the morning and evening rush hours, while there may be longer intervals between trains during the day. If you have connecting trains or buses, it's advisable to choose connections that allow ample time before your arrival.

• Limited Express Price, Ticket and Timetable - Ekitan

Notes on Operating Days and Service Suspensions

The "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI" operates only on limited days, primarily on weekends and holidays. Operating days are announced in advance, so please be sure to check if you plan to ride it. Operating days and sections are subject to change.

Operating Sections of "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI"

Main Sections

• Hanamaki Station to Tono Station (Kamaishi Line)
• Tono Station to Kami-Arizumi Station (Kamaishi Line)
• Kami-Arizumi Station to Kamaishi Station (Kamaishi Line)

Tono Station is the gateway to Tono, the land of folk tales. Kappa-buchi is a place associated with the legend of the kappa, which appears in the "Tono Monogatari" (Tales of Tono). At Denshoen, you can experience Tono's rural culture and folk tales. At Tono Furusato Village, thatched-roof traditional houses are preserved. In Kamaishi, you can learn about the history of modern ironmaking at the Iron History Museum. Hashino Iron Mine is a relic of modern ironmaking that is registered as a World Heritage Site. Hanamaki is known as the hometown of Kenji Miyazawa, and there is a memorial museum dedicated to him. 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. Tono's children's songs and storytelling are experiences unique to the land of folk tales. You can continue your journey along the ria coast by transferring to the Sanriku Railway.

Stations Served by "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI"

Main Stations Served

• Hanamaki Station
• Tono Station
• Kami-Arizumi Station
• Kamaishi Station

*Stops may vary by train.

Fares for "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI"

Fares for Representative Sections

Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Limited Express Fare

The "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI" is an all-reserved-seat train. A separate reserved seat ticket is required in addition to the basic fare ticket. Reserved seats go on sale one month prior to the travel date at 10:00 AM and can be reserved through Ekinet, JR-EAST Train Reservation, reserved seat ticket machines, and Midori-no-Madoguchi.

About the Playroom

The train features a Pokémon-themed playroom. This playroom is available to passengers with reserved seats. It's equipped with children's toys and stuffed animals, making it popular with families. Use may be restricted during peak hours.

How to Buy Tickets for "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI"

Ekinet (Internet Reservation)

JR East's online reservation service, "Ekinet," 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 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 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 may offer travel packages that combine sightseeing in the Tono and Kamaishi areas with train travel.

How to Buy for International Visitors

The "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI" is a JR East train, so it can be used with the JAPAN RAIL 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 at stations 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.

Do I need to get a physical ticket?

If you made a reservation through Ekinet or JR-EAST Train Reservation, you will receive your paper ticket at a designated ticket vending machine or similar location, depending on your reservation details. There are conditions regarding the pickup station and the types of cards that can be used, so please check the reservation completion screen and allow ample time to pick up your ticket.

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

There are sections of the Kamaishi Line where IC cards cannot be used. It is advisable to prepare to purchase tickets with cash or from a ticket vending machine. While some transportation IC cards can be used across regions due to 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.

Contactless payment via credit card is not available for boarding at ticket gates.

*Please note that you cannot board the train using only an IC card. A reserved seat ticket must be purchased separately.

Seating Information for "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI"

Seat Types

The "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI" is an all-reserved-seat train. It includes a car equipped with a playroom. Since the number of seats is limited, it is recommended to book early once your travel dates are decided. You may be able to choose between window and aisle seats when booking. If you wish to sit together with your travel companions, booking together will make it easier to secure adjacent seats.

Unique Seating Features

The seats are decorated with Pokémon characters. The playroom is furnished with toys and stuffed animals. The interior decoration is unified with the world of Pokémon, making it a great place for commemorative photos. From the windows, you can enjoy the scenery of the Kitakami Mountains. Window seats are suitable for those who want to enjoy the scenery, 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 and make a reservation in advance for a more comfortable experience.

Luggage Storage

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

Accessibility Features

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.

 

 

Onboard Food and Souvenirs on "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI"

On the "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI," commemorative goods may be sold on board. In Tono, Jingisukan (grilled lamb) and Doburoku (unrefined sake) are well-known local specialties. In Kamaishi, you can enjoy seafood dishes made with ingredients from the Sanriku coast. In Hanamaki, Wanko Soba is a popular local dish. Onboard sales vary depending on the train and time of year, so it's best to prepare drinks and snacks before boarding. If you eat or drink on board, please be considerate of others by avoiding foods with strong odors to ensure a pleasant experience. Dispose of empty containers and trash in the trash cans on board or at the station after disembarking.

Points to note when riding the "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI"

The "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI" 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. Due to its popularity, reserved seats may fill up quickly. Operating dates and sections are subject to change. Use of the playroom may be restricted during peak hours. 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.

Since onboard sales are limited, be sure to prepare drinks and snacks before boarding. Check the train schedule on the day of travel using Ekitan or the railway company's official website before boarding.

Summary

The "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI" is a JR East sightseeing train connecting Hanamaki Station and Kamaishi Station. It's a popular train for families, allowing passengers to enjoy the world of Pokémon inside the train. It offers a narrative journey connecting the land of the Tono Monogatari (Tales of Tono) and the port town of Sanriku.

Enjoy a trip to Iwate Prefecture aboard the "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KAMAISHI," where you can travel with Pokémon.

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.