"RESORT AIZU" train timetable, fares, and how to buy tickets

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR East "RESORT AIZU" limited express train, which connects Koriyama Station and Aizu-Wakamatsu 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 Mount Bandai and Aizu-Wakamatsu, 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 "RESORT AIZU" is a JR East sightseeing train that connects Koriyama Station and Aizu-Wakamatsu Station via the JR Ban'etsu West Line. It connects with the Tohoku Shinkansen and is used as a connecting train when traveling from the Tokyo metropolitan area to the Aizu region. The train uses hybrid HB-E300 series diesel railcars. Passengers can enjoy the scenery of Mount Bandai and Lake Inawashiro from the train windows. All seats are reserved, so advance seat reservations are required. As this train operates on limited days, it is necessary to check the operating dates if you plan to ride it. There are other trains with similar names and destinations, so it is recommended to check the train name and destination on the departure information display before boarding.

What is the "RESORT AIZU"?

The "RESORT AIZU" train is a JR East sightseeing train that provides access to the Aizu area. The JR Ban'etsu West Line runs from Koriyama Station through Aizu-Wakamatsu to Niitsu Station. Mount Bandai is an active volcano with an elevation of 1,816 meters and is also known as "Aizu Fuji." Lake Inawashiro is the fourth largest lake in Japan. The HB-E300 series is a hybrid train that uses electricity generated by a diesel engine to power its motors.

Train Features and Popular Points

The appeal of the "RESORT AIZU" train lies in its smooth connection to Aizu via the Shinkansen. From the train windows, you can enjoy the majestic view of Mount Bandai and the surface of Lake Inawashiro. The train's interior features large windows, creating a bright and open space. Aizu-Wakamatsu is dotted with historical sites such as Tsuruga Castle and Iimoriyama. Tsuruga Castle, with its distinctive red-tiled keep, is a symbol of Aizu. Iimoriyama is known as a place associated with the Byakkotai (White Tiger Corps). Inawashiro is home to the Hideyo Noguchi Memorial Museum. Ouchi-juku can be accessed by transferring to the Aizu Railway. Checking the stations served and travel times before boarding will make it easier to plan an itinerary that includes stops along the way. The view 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 JR Ban'etsu West Line is a route that descends into the Aizu Basin while offering views of Mount Bandai. Kitakata can be accessed from Aizu-Wakamatsu by transferring to the JR Ban'etsu West Line. Aizu is home to numerous sake breweries.

Timetable for the "RESORT AIZU" train

*The "RESORT AIZU" train operates only on select days.

Downbound (towards Aizu-Wakamatsu Station) Timetable

Upbound (towards Koriyama Station) Timetable

The "RESORT AIZU" train operates only on select days (mainly 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 peak hours, but 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 Price, Ticket and Timetable - ekitan

Important Information Regarding Operating Days and Days When Service is Suspended

The "RESORT AIZU" train 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 may occur due to snowfall.

Operating Sections of the "RESORT AIZU" train

Main Sections

• Koriyama Station to Inawashiro Station (JR Ban'etsu West Line)
• Inawashiro Station to Bandai-machi Station (JR Ban'etsu West Line)
• Bandai-machi Station to Aizu-Wakamatsu Station (JR Ban'etsu West Line)

Aizu-Wakamatsu Station is the gateway to Aizu tourism. Tsuruga Castle, with its restored red-tiled keep, is a symbol of Aizu. Iimoriyama is known as the site where the Byakkotai committed suicide. Sazaedo is a rare building with a double-helix structure. Lake Inawashiro is a beautiful lake also known as "Tenkyoko" (Heavenly Mirror Lake). At the Hideyo Noguchi Memorial Museum, you can learn about the life of the bacteriologist from Inawashiro. Ouchi-juku can be accessed by transferring between Aizu Railway lines. Since getting to the surrounding tourist spots mainly involves buses and walking, it's a good idea to check local transportation options in advance. There are often tourist information centers around the station where you can get maps and brochures. For lines with limited service, it's reassuring to check the return train and bus schedules as well. Kitakata is known as a town of storehouses. Goshikinuma is a group of lakes created by the eruption of Mount Bandai.

Stations Served by the "RESORT AIZU" train

Main Stations Served

• Koriyama Station
• Inawashiro Station
• Bandai-machi Station
• Aizu-Wakamatsu Station

*The stations served vary depending on the train.

Fares for the "RESORT AIZU" train

Representative Section Fare

Breakdown of Basic Fare and Limited Express Fare

The fare for the "RESORT AIZU" train is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the reserved seat ticket. Since all seats are reserved, you cannot board the train without securing a seat. When purchasing tickets, make sure you have both the basic fare ticket and the seat ticket. JR limited express 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 "limited express fare" for riding the limited express train. You must purchase both to ride the limited express train, so please note that you cannot ride the limited express train with just a basic fare ticket.

Transfer with Shinkansen

The "RESORT AIZU" train connects with the Tohoku Shinkansen at Koriyama Station. This connection is convenient for those traveling from the Tokyo metropolitan area to the Aizu region. Please note that the transfer discount between the Shinkansen and conventional lines has been discontinued for travel from March 16, 2024, so please check the tickets and fares for both the Shinkansen and the "RESORT AIZU" train separately. Transfer times vary depending on the timetable, so choose a connection with ample time.

How to Buy Tickets for the "RESORT AIZU" 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 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. Midori-no-madoguchi can get crowded during peak season, so it's best to go with plenty of time to spare.

Travel Agency

Major travel agencies offer travel packages that combine sightseeing in Aizu with train travel.

How to Buy for Foreign Tourists

The "RESORT AIZU" train is operated by JR East, 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 station ticket offices offer assistance in foreign languages. Special tickets for international tourists may have limited purchase conditions and sales locations, so it is advisable to check before traveling.

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 may not be usable on some sections of the JR Ban'etsu West Line. It's best to be prepared 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 "RESORT AIZU" train

Seat Types

The "RESORT AIZU" train is all reserved seating. It is operated using HB-E300 series hybrid trains. During peak season, seats fill up quickly, so it is best to book early once your travel dates are decided. You may be able to choose between window and aisle seats when booking. If you want to sit together with your travel companions, booking together makes it easier to secure adjacent seats.

Distinctive Seating

The train's interior features large windows, creating a bright and open space. The seats are positioned to allow passengers to enjoy the scenery. Thanks to its hybrid system, it is very quiet, ensuring a comfortable journey. Seats on the Bandai Mountain side offer magnificent views of the mountains. Since the scenery changes depending on the direction of travel, it's a good idea 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 suitable for those who prioritize ease of boarding and alighting. For long journeys, it's recommended to check your seat location in advance before booking for a more comfortable experience.

Large Luggage Storage

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 In-Train Dining on the "RESORT AIZU" train

On the "RESORT AIZU" train, snacks and drinks may be sold on board. Local Aizu cuisine includes Kozuyu soup, sauce katsudon (pork cutlet rice bowl), and wappa meshi (rice wrapped in a wooden box). Kitakata ramen is a representative local ramen of the Aizu region. Aizu is also known as a sake producing area and has many sake breweries. Station shops may have limited operating hours, so it's best to stop by early. There is a wide variety of ekiben (station bento boxes), so it's fun to take some time to choose before boarding. When eating or drinking on the train, 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 the train or in the trash cans at the station after disembarking.

Points to Note When Riding the "RESORT AIZU" train

The "RESORT AIZU" 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. Checking the connection time with the Shinkansen will make it easier to plan your trip. During winter, delays may occur due to snow. Mount Bandai may not be visible depending on the weather. During peak season, stations and trains will be crowded, so allow plenty of time. Before boarding, check the train name, car number, and seat number written 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.

Due to its popularity, reserved seats may sell out quickly. Please check the train status on the day of travel using Ekitan or the railway company's official website before boarding.

Summary

The "RESORT AIZU" is a JR East sightseeing train that connects Koriyama Station and Aizu-Wakamatsu Station via the JR Ban'etsu West Line. It connects with the Shinkansen and offers a journey to Aizu with views of Mount Bandai and Lake Inawashiro. 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 the history and nature of Aizu aboard the "RESORT AIZU" train, which offers views of Mount Aizu Fuji.

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.