"Resort Shirakami" Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR East sightseeing rapid train "Resort Shirakami", which connects Akita Station with Aomori Station and Hirosaki Station. It includes timetables, fares for representative sections, stations where the train stops, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. This popular sightseeing train runs along the Sea of Japan via the JR Gono Line, and 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 Shirakami" is a JR East sightseeing rapid train that connects Akita Station with Aomori Station and Hirosaki Station via the JR Ou Main Line and JR Gono Line. It began operation in 1997, and currently uses three train sets (nicknames): "Aoike," "Kumagera," and "Buna." As it is a rapid train and not a Limited Express train, a reserved seat ticket is required in addition to the basic fare ticket. Since all seats are reserved, advance seat reservation is mandatory for boarding. Over a quarter-century since its launch, it remains a popular sightseeing train representing Tohoku, enjoyed by many travelers, including repeat visitors.

What is "Resort Shirakami"?

The "Resort Shirakami" is a JR East sightseeing rapid train that began operation in 1997, connecting Akita Station and Aomori Station via the JR Gono Line. It was named "Shirakami" because it runs through the gateway to the Shirakami Mountains, a World Heritage Site. Currently, there are three different train sets, "Aoike," "Kumagera," and "Buna," each with its own nickname, and all of them are equipped with large windows and observation spaces where passengers can enjoy the spectacular views of the Sea of Japan along the JR Gono Line. The name "Aoike" comes from the actual name of a lake in the Twelve Lakes (Jūniko) of the Shirakami Mountains, and its mystical blue color is reflected in the design concept.

Train Features and Popular Aspects

The appeal of the "Resort Shirakami" lies in the fact that passengers can relax and enjoy the spectacular views of the Sea of Japan along the JR Gono Line through large windows and observation spaces. Depending on the train set, there are also events to enjoy during the ride, such as live performances of Tsugaru shamisen and guided tours of the route by local guides. As it is a rapid train, the reserved seat fare is cheaper than that of a Limited Express train, which is another reason for its popularity. Another attraction is that you can enjoy different interior designs for each train set, so you can experience a different atmosphere each time you ride.

"Resort Shirakami" Timetable

*The "Resort Shirakami" service consists of three train sets: "Aoike," "Kumagera," and "Buna," each operating at different times depending on the train number.

Southbound (towards Aomori/Hirosaki) Timetable

*Destinations, stations where the train stops, and travel times vary depending on the train number.

Timetable for Northbound Trains (towards Akita)

*The time shown is an example.

The "Resort Shirakami" operates approximately three round trips a day between Akita Station and Aomori/Hirosaki Stations, with three train sets—"Aoike," "Kumagera," and "Buna"—assigned to each train number. Since the interior design and events differ depending on the train set, checking which set will be used before boarding will enhance your experience.

Important Notes Regarding Operating Days and Service Suspensions

The "Resort Shirakami" train generally operates daily, but some trains may have limited operating days depending on the season and day of the week. During winter, strong winds and heavy snowfall characteristic of the Sea of Japan coast can easily cause service suspensions and delays, so please check the operating status before traveling. Speed restrictions and service suspensions are more likely during severe weather, so it is advisable to allow extra time in your travel itinerary.

"Resort Shirakami" Operating Sections

Main Sections

• Akita Station to Higashi-Noshiro Station (JR Ou Main Line)
• Higashi-Noshiro Station to Kawabe Station (JR Gono Line)
• Kawabe Station to Hirosaki Station/Aomori Station (JR Ou Main Line)

The JR Gono Line section boasts numerous scenic spots overlooking the Sea of Japan, with the areas around "Senjojiki" and "Fukaura" being particularly popular for their views from the train window. It is also known as the gateway to the World Heritage site of Shirakami Mountains, and on the Aomori Prefecture side, you can enjoy views of Hirosaki Castle and apple orchards.

"Resort Shirakami" Stations Where the Train Stops

Main Stations Where the Train Stops

• Akita Station
• Higashi-Noshiro Station
• Noshiro Station
• Fukaura Station
• Goshogawara Station
• Kawabe Station
• Hirosaki Station
• Aomori Station

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

"Resort Shirakami" Fares

Representative Section Fares

*The "Resort Shirakami" is a rapid train. The fare for the section traveled is plus the Ordinary Car Reserved Seat Fare.
*As this is a rapid train, reserved seat fares and Green Car fares apply instead of Limited Express fares.

Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Reserved Seat Fare

The fare for "Resort Shirakami" is the sum of the basic fare ticket (fare) to your destination and the reserved seat fare. As it is a rapid train and not a Limited Express train, it is characterized by its lower reserved seat fare compared to standard Limited Express fares. All seats are reserved, so there are no unreserved seats. Children's fares and reserved seat fees are basically half the adult fare (rounded up to the nearest 10 yen).

Special Discount Tickets

There are sometimes special discount tickets available, such as the "JR Gono Line Free Pass," that allow you to travel around the JR Gono Line area at a reduced price. If you plan to travel around the JR Gono Line, including on the "Resort Shirakami" train, you might want to consider combining these tickets with your trip.

How to Buy Tickets for "Resort Shirakami"

Eki-net (Online Reservation)

JR East's online reservation service, "Eki-net," allows you to purchase reserved seat tickets using a credit card. Because it's a popular sightseeing train, early reservations are recommended during high season. Membership registration is free, and you can check seat availability and make reservations 24 hours a day from your smartphone.

Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and Midori-no-madoguchi

You can also purchase reserved seat tickets at Reserved Seat Ticket Machines or Midori-no-madoguchi at the station.

Travel Agencies

Major travel agencies also offer tour packages that include reserved seat tickets for the "Resort Shirakami" train.

How to Purchase for International Visitors

Since "Resort Shirakami" is a JR East train, you may be able to use Ordinary Car reserved seats with eligible passes such as the Japan Rail Pass and JR EAST PASS. As all seats are reserved, please reserve your seat before boarding even if you are using a pass.

*The applicable routes and usage conditions for each pass vary depending on the type of pass.

Is a Physical Ticket Required?

Even if you reserve a reserved seat through Eki-net, you may still need to pick up a paper ticket at a Reserved Seat Ticket Machine or Midori-no-madoguchi before boarding. Whether or not you need to pick up a paper ticket varies depending on the purchase method, so please check the instructions provided when you made your reservation.

• Limited Express Price, Ticket and Timetable - ekitan

Can IC Cards or Credit Card Touch Payments Be Used?

Since the "Resort Shirakami" train travels via the JR Gono Line, it is advisable to avoid using only an IC card for the entire journey and instead purchase a basic fare ticket and a reserved seat ticket in advance. The reserved seat fare cannot be paid on board using the balance on your IC card.

On the "Resort Shirakami" route, contactless payment via credit card is not available for boarding at ticket gates.

*Please note that you cannot ride using only an IC card. Reserved seat fares must be purchased separately. Some sections of the JR Gono Line may be outside the IC card usage area.

"Resort Shirakami" Seating Information

Seat Types (All Seats Reserved)

All three "Resort Shirakami" train sets—"Aoike," "Kumagera," and "Buna"—operate with all seats reserved. There are no unreserved seats.

Distinctive Seating

Each of the three train sets has a different design concept and features an observation space where passengers can enjoy the view of the Sea of Japan through large windows. Some train sets even feature live Tsugaru shamisen performances, making the journey itself an enjoyable part of the sightseeing experience. Some seats are positioned to face the Sea of Japan, ensuring that passengers can enjoy the ocean view regardless of the direction of travel.

Large Luggage Storage Area

There is space provided within the train for storing large luggage.

Barrier-Free Facilities

The trains used are equipped with barrier-free facilities. If you will be using a wheelchair, we recommend that you contact a JR East ticket office or information center in advance.

Bento Boxes and Onboard Dining on "Resort Shirakami"

On the "Resort Shirakami" train, some services offer onboard sales of local specialties and souvenirs. Depending on the train configuration, there are also events to enjoy during the ride, such as live Tsugaru shamisen performances and guided tours of the route by local guides. If you want to enjoy a meal, it is recommended to prepare in advance at the bento box shops and stalls around Akita Station or Aomori Station. There are also several restaurants around Fukaura Station that serve seafood dishes made with ingredients from the Sea of Japan.

*Availability of in-train sales and bento boxes varies depending on the train and time of year.

Points to Note When Riding "Resort Shirakami"

Since all seats on the "Resort Shirakami" train are reserved, it is recommended to book early if you have decided on your travel dates. During the winter, strong winds and heavy snowfall characteristic of the Sea of Japan coast can easily cause service suspensions and delays, so be sure to check the service information especially when traveling in winter. Also, if you plan to get off at an intermediate station to sightsee around Fukaura or Goshogawara, it will be helpful to check the time of the next train as well.

Since the design and event content vary depending on the train set, it's a good idea to check the train set being used in advance if you have a specific preference. Some sections of the JR Gono Line are outside the IC card usage area, so it's recommended to purchase your basic fare ticket in advance.

Summary

The "Resort Shirakami" is a JR East sightseeing rapid train connecting Akita Station with Aomori Station and Hirosaki Station via the JR Gono Line. Three train sets are in operation: "Aoike," "Kumagera," and "Buna." All seats are reserved, so both a basic fare ticket and a reserved seat fare are required, but the fare is cheaper than the Limited Express fare. It can also be used with eligible passes such as the Japan Rail Pass, but advance seat reservations are required. This train allows passengers to fully enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Sea of Japan along the JR Gono Line. Since its launch in 1997, it has been a highly popular sightseeing train running on one of Tohoku's most scenic routes.

Please note that timetables, fares, and seating arrangements are subject to change. Before departure, please check the latest information and enjoy your journey along the Sea of Japan aboard the "Resort Shirakami", which runs through the gateway to the World Heritage site of Shirakami Mountains.

Ekitan Travel Media Editorial Department

The Ekitan Travel Media editorial team provides information on transportation in Japan, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), trains on conventional lines, intercity travel, and access to tourist destinations. We also offer easy-to-understand travel information for international visitors.
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.