"RESORT CHOKAI" Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets

This article provides information on the JR East temporary rapid train "RESORT CHOKAI," which will operate from Sakata Station to Akita Station on July 11th and 12th, 2026. It covers operating times, stations where the train stops, fares, seating, and how to purchase tickets. This is a limited-time train using the Resort Shirakami Buna formation, with all seats reserved. Please check the latest information on Ekitan or the JR East official website before traveling.

"RESORT CHOKAI" is a temporary rapid train that will operate from Sakata Station to Akita Station on July 11th and 12th, 2026, in conjunction with the Yamagata Shonai Summer Tourism Campaign. The outbound journey from Akita Station to Sakata Station will be operated as "RESORT SHONAI". The train will use the HB-E300 series 4-car Resort Shirakami Buna formation, and all seats are reserved.

What is "RESORT CHOKAI"?

"RESORT CHOKAI" is a special JR East train named after Mount Chokai. Mount Chokai is an isolated peak with an elevation of 2,236 meters and is also known as "Dewa Fuji." The JR Uetsu Main Line runs north from Niigata along the Sea of Japan coast to Akita. In the section running near the border between Akita and Yamagata prefectures, passengers can enjoy scenery of both the sea and the mountains. Kisakata is known as a scenic spot that was once visited by Matsuo Basho.

Train Features and Popular Points

The appeal of "RESORT CHOKAI" lies in the fact that you can enjoy the spectacular views of both Mount Chokai and the Sea of Japan at the same time. From the seats on the Sea of Japan side, you can see the waves crashing against the coastline. Mount Chokai shows different faces depending on the season, sometimes covered in snow and sometimes lush with greenery. Kisakata is a scenic spot visited by Matsuo Basho in his "Oku no Hosomichi" (The Narrow Road to the Deep North). Kisakata was once a lagoon with many islands, but it became land due to uplift caused by an earthquake. Sakata is a port town that flourished as a port of call for Kitamae ships. The Sankyo Warehouses are rice storage warehouses that symbolize Sakata. On evening trips, you may be able to enjoy the sunset over the Sea of Japan. 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 from the window changes greatly depending on the season, so it is recommended to choose the time of year according to your purpose. Mount Chokai is an isolated peak straddling Yamagata and Akita prefectures. The coastline facing the Sea of Japan is dotted with unusual rock formations and sandy beaches. The Akita-Shonai area is also known as a major rice-producing region.

Timetable for "RESORT CHOKAI"

The "RESORT CHOKAI" will operate for only two days, on July 11th and 12th, 2026.

Downbound (towards Sakata Station) Timetable

Timetable for Northbound Trains (towards Akita Station)

On July 11th and 12th, 2026, the "RESORT CHOKAI" train will operate only one way, from Sakata Station to Akita Station. The train traveling from Akita Station to Sakata Station will be the "RESORT SHONAI" train.

The train will operate on July 11th and 12th, 2026. As this is a limited-time, special train, it will not run every week on regular weekends and holidays.

• Limited Express Fares, Tickets and Timetable - Ekitan

Important Information Regarding Operating Days and Days When the Service is Suspended

The "RESORT CHOKAI" is a train that operates mainly on weekends and holidays. Operating days and sections may vary from year to year. The JR Uetsu Main Line is susceptible to strong winds, so service may be suspended.

Operating Section of "RESORT CHOKAI"

Main Sections

• Akita Station to Ugo-Honjo Station (JR Uetsu Main Line)
• Ugo-Honjo Station to Kisakata Station (JR Uetsu Main Line)
• Kisakata Station to Sakata Station (JR Uetsu Main Line)

In Kisakata, you can see the remains of the ancient islands known as Kujukushima. Kanjinji Temple is associated with Matsuo Basho. Mount Chokai can be accessed via a driveway from the foot of the mountain. The Sankyo Warehouses in Sakata, along with the zelkova tree-lined streets, are a symbol of Sakata. Yuza is an area rich in spring water from Mount Chokai. You can transfer to the Yuri Kogen Railway from Ugo Honjo. In Akita, the Kanto Festival is known as a summer tradition. 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. Tourist information centers are sometimes located around stations 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. The former Honma family residence in Sakata is a building that tells the history of the wealthy merchant Honma family. The spring water from Mount Chokai is cherished as famous water. The Yuri Kogen Railway also operates sightseeing trains such as the Matsuri-go.

Stations Where the "RESORT CHOKAI" Train Stops

Main Stations Where the Train Stops

• Akita Station
• Ugo-Honjo Station
• Kisakata Station
• Yuza Station
• Sakata Station

*The stations where the train stops may vary depending on the train.

Fares for "RESORT CHOKAI"

Representative Section Fares

Breakdown of Base Fare Ticket and Limited Express Fare

The fare for "RESORT CHOKAI" is the sum of the base 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 base fare ticket and the seat ticket. JR's limited express fares are set according to the distance traveled, and the amount may vary depending on whether it is a normal season, peak season, or off-peak season. The fare is divided into the "base fare ticket (fare)" for the journey to the destination itself and the "limited express fare" for riding the limited express train. Note that you cannot ride the limited express train with just a base fare ticket, as you must purchase both.

To Enjoy the Scenery of the Sea of Japan from the Train Window

The highlight of the "RESORT CHOKAI" train journey is the coastline of the Sea of Japan. Depending on the direction of travel, the seats that offer ocean views will vary. Checking your seat location when making your reservation will allow you to fully enjoy the scenery. Mount Chokai may not be visible depending on the weather.

How to Buy Tickets for "RESORT CHOKAI"

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 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 Shonai/Akita area with train travel.

How to Buy for Foreign Tourists

"RESORT CHOKAI" 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 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?

There are sections of the JR Uetsu Main 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 "RESORT CHOKAI"

Seat Types

"RESORT CHOKAI" is an all-reserved-seat train. It features a seating arrangement that makes it easy to enjoy the scenery from the window. During peak seasons, seats fill up quickly, so it's 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. Seats on the Sea of Japan side offer stunning views of the coastline. The train may slow down in scenic sections. The type of train used may vary depending on the day of operation. 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 suitable for those who want to enjoy the scenery, while aisle seats are ideal for those who prioritize ease of boarding and alighting. For long journeys, it's recommended to check your seat location in advance before making a reservation for a more comfortable experience.

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.

 

 

Enjoy Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and In-Train Gourmet Food on the "RESORT CHOKAI" Train

On the "RESORT CHOKAI" train, snacks and drinks may be sold on board. Seafood from the Shonai region and rice grown with spring water from Mount Chokai are representative flavors of the area. In Akita, kiritanpo and Inaniwa udon are local specialties. In Sakata, you can enjoy fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan. 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. Dispose of empty containers and trash in the trash cans on the train or at the station after disembarking.

Points to Note When Riding the "RESORT CHOKAI"

"RESORT CHOKAI" is a limited-day train, 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. The JR Uetsu Main Line is susceptible to strong winds, so check the operating status beforehand. Mount Chokai may not be visible depending on the weather. Operating days and sections may change from year to year. During peak seasons, stations and trains can be crowded, so allow plenty of time for travel. Before boarding, 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.

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

"RESORT CHOKAI" is a temporary JR East train that connects Akita Station and Sakata Station via the JR Uetsu Main Line. Passengers can enjoy the spectacular scenery of Mount Chokai, also known as "Dewa Fuji," and the coastline of the Sea of Japan at the same time. 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 a journey along the Tohoku coastline from "RESORT CHOKAI," which offers views of Mount Dewa Fuji and the Sea of Japan.

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.