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

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR East sightseeing train "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA," which connects Ichinoseki Station and Kesennuma 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 to Geibikei Gorge and Kesennuma, 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 KESENNUMA" is a JR East sightseeing train that connects Ichinoseki Station and Kesennuma Station via the Ofunato Line. It's a popular train for children, with Pokémon characters depicted both inside and out. A playroom is provided inside, allowing passengers to enjoy the journey while playing. All seats are reserved, so advance seat reservations are required. It mainly operates on weekends and holidays, so checking the operating dates is necessary if you plan to ride. As a train that runs through areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake, it also plays a role in supporting regional recovery. Since there are similar train names and destinations, it's advisable to check the departure information display for the correct train name and destination before boarding.

What is "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA"?

The "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA" 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 Ofunato Line runs from Ichinoseki Station through Kesennuma Station to Sakari Station. The section between Kesennuma and Sakari has been operated by BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) since the earthquake. Geibikei Gorge along the line is known for its beautiful gorge scenery, which has been selected as one of Japan's 100 Scenic Views.

Train Features and Popular Points

The appeal of the "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA" 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 adorn the seats, adding a fun touch to family trips. Geibikei Gorge is a gorge known for its boat trips where boatmen steer the boats with just one pole. The scenery of Geibikei Gorge, with its continuous cliffs, has been selected as one of Japan's 100 Scenic Views. Kesennuma is a port town known for its landings of saury and bonito. You can observe the unloading of the catch at Kesennuma's fish market. You can leisurely enjoy the rural scenery and mountain views along the route. Checking the stations served 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 windows changes greatly depending on the season, so it is recommended to choose the time of year according to your purpose. The Ofunato Line is also known by the nickname "Dragon Rail" due to the shape of its route map.

Timetable for the "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA"

*The "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA" operates mainly on weekends and holidays.

Downbound (towards Kesennuma Station) Timetable

Timetable for Upbound Trains (towards Ichinoseki Station)

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

• Limited Express Fares, Tickets, and Timetables - Ekitan

Important Information Regarding Operating Days and Service Suspensions

The "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA" is a train that operates only 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 the "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA"

Main Sections

• Ichinoseki Station to Geibikei Station (Ofunato Line)
• Geibikei Station to Senmaya Station (Ofunato Line)
• Senmaya Station to Kesennuma Station (Ofunato Line)

Geibikei Station is the closest station to the Geibikei Gorge boat trip. On the Geibikei Gorge boat trip, you can cruise through the gorge while listening to the boatman's songs. Genbi Gorge is a gorge that can be accessed by bus from Ichinoseki Station. Kesennuma is a port town known for its saury and shark fins. The Rias Ark Museum in Kesennuma has an exhibition that documents the earthquake. Ichinoseki is also known as the gateway to Hiraizumi. The Konjikido Hall of Chusonji Temple in Hiraizumi is a World Heritage Site. As you will mainly be traveling to the surrounding tourist spots by bus or on foot, it is a good idea to check the local transportation options in advance. There are sometimes tourist information centers around the station where you can get maps and brochures. For lines with limited service, it is a good idea to check the return train and bus schedules as well. Kesennuma Oshima can be accessed from Kesennuma by crossing a bridge.

Stations Served by the "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA"

Main Stations Served

• Ichinoseki Station
• Geibikei Station
• Senmaya Station
• Kesennuma Station

*The stations served may vary depending on the train.

Fares for the "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA"

Fares for Representative Sections

Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Reserved Seat Fare

The "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA" 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 Eki-net, 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 the "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA"

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 ticket office, simply tell the staff your destination and desired departure time, and they will guide you to the appropriate train. Ticket offices 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 Kesennuma and Hiraizumi areas with train travel.

How to Purchase for Foreign Tourists

The "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA" 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 reserved seat ticket. 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 traveling.

Is a Physical Ticket Required?

If you made a reservation through Eki-net 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 Ofunato 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 the "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA"

Seat Types

The "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA" 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.

Distinctive Seating

The seats are decorated with Pokémon characters. The playroom is furnished with toys and stuffed animals. The interior of the train is decorated in a consistent Pokémon theme, making it a great place for commemorative photos. From the windows, you can enjoy the rural scenery and mountain views along the route. 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 your seat location and make a reservation in advance for a more comfortable ride.

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.

Ekiben and Onboard Dining on the "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA"

On the "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA," commemorative goods may be sold on board. Kesennuma is known for its shark fin, saury, and bonito. In Ichinoseki, mochi dishes are a popular local delicacy. Around Hiraizumi, you can also enjoy Wanko Soba. Onboard sales vary depending on the train and season, 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. Dispose of empty containers and trash in the trash cans on board or at the station after disembarking.

Important Notes for Riding the "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA"

The "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA" 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 days 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's operating status on the day of travel using Ekitan or the railway company's official website before boarding.

Summary

The "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA" is a JR East sightseeing train connecting Ichinoseki Station and Kesennuma Station. It's a popular train for families, offering a Pokémon-themed experience inside the train. Since it operates on limited days and all seats are reserved, be sure to check the operating dates and reserve your seats in advance.

Enjoy a trip to Sanriku aboard the "POKÉMON WITH YOU TRAIN KESENNUMA," 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), conventional 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 route search 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.