"RESORT SHONAI" Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets
This article provides information on the JR East special rapid train "RESORT SHONAI", which will operate from Akita Station to Sakata Station on July 11th and 12th, 2026. It covers operating times, stations served, fares, seating, and how to purchase tickets. This is a seasonal train using the Resort Shirakami Buna trainset, with all seats reserved.
"RESORT SHONAI" is a special rapid train operated by JR East that will run from Akita Station to Sakata Station on July 11th and 12th, 2026. It will use the Resort Shirakami Buna trainset and travel from Akita Prefecture to the Shonai region of Yamagata Prefecture. All seats are reserved, so advance seat reservations are required to board. As this is a train that operates only on limited days, please check the operating dates and times if you plan to ride it. There are other special trains with similar names and destinations, so it is recommended to check the train name and destination on the departure information display before boarding. Item Content Train Name "RESORT SHONAI" Operating Company JR East Operating Section Akita Station → Sakata Station Operating Days July 11th and 12th, 2026 Time Departs Akita at 9:42, Arrives Sakata at 11:41 Train Type Special Rapid Train Seat All seats are reserved 
Table of Contents
- What is "RESORT SHONAI"?
- "RESORT SHONAI" Timetable
- Operating Section of "RESORT SHONAI"
- Stations Served by "RESORT SHONAI"
- Fares for "RESORT SHONAI"
- How to Buy Tickets for "RESORT SHONAI"
- Do I Need a Paper Ticket?
- Can I Use IC Cards or Credit Card Touch Payment?
- Seating Information for "RESORT SHONAI"
- Enjoy Ekiben (Station Lunch Boxes) and Onboard Dining on "RESORT SHONAI"
- Important Notes When Riding "RESORT SHONAI"
- Summary
What is "RESORT SHONAI"?
"RESORT SHONAI" is a special train operated by JR East that provides tourist access to the Shonai region. The JR Uetsu Main Line runs north from Niigata along the Sea of Japan coast to Akita. The Shonai Plain is known as one of Japan's leading rice-producing areas. Tsuruoka is a town that flourished as the castle town of the Shonai Domain. Sakata is a port town that prospered as a port of call for Kitamae ships.
Train Features and Highlights
The appeal of "RESORT SHONAI" lies in the fact that you can travel from Akita Station to Sakata Station on the Resort Shirakami Buna trainset. Along the route, you can enjoy the scenery of Mount Chokai, the Sea of Japan, and the Shonai Plain. The Sankyo Warehouses in Sakata, along with the zelkova tree-lined streets, are an iconic tourist spot in Sakata. The Shonai region also has other tourist attractions such as the Dewa Sanzan mountains and the Tsuruoka City Kamo Aquarium. Checking the bus and train schedules after arriving at Sakata Station in advance will make it easier to incorporate sightseeing in the surrounding area.
"RESORT SHONAI" Timetable
*The "RESORT SHONAI" train operates only on select days.
Downbound (towards Sakata Station) Timetable
| Stations | Time |
|---|---|
| Departs Akita Station | 9:42 |
| Arrives Sakata Station | 11:41 |
Upbound (towards Niigata Station) Timetable
On July 11th and 12th, 2026, the "RESORT SHONAI" train will operate only one way, from Akita Station to Sakata Station. The train traveling from Sakata Station to Akita Station will be the "RESORT CHOKAI" train.
"RESORT SHONAI" 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 rush 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.
Important Notes Regarding Operating Days and Non-Operating Days
"RESORT SHONAI" 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 SHONAI"
Main Sections
- Akita Station to Ugo-Honjo Station (JR Uetsu Main Line)
- Ugo-Honjo Station - Kisakata Station - Yuza Station - Sakata Station (JR Uetsu Main Line)
Sakata Station is the gateway to Sakata, a port town in the Shonai region. The Sankyo Warehouses, along with the zelkova tree-lined avenue, are a symbolic tourist spot of Sakata. If you are heading to Tsuruoka or the Dewa Sanzan area, you can take a local train or bus from Sakata Station. The scenery of Mount Chokai and the Sea of Japan are also highlights along the route. If you plan to do some sightseeing in the surrounding area, be sure to check transportation options and return times after arriving at Sakata Station in advance.
Stations Served by "RESORT SHONAI"
Main Stops
- Akita Station
- Ugo-Honjo Station
- Kisakata Station
- Yuza Station
- Sakata Station
*The stations where the train stops vary depending on the service.
Fares for "RESORT SHONAI"
Representative Section Fare
| Section | Total Fare (Adult, Estimated) | Basic Fare Ticket | Reserved Seat Ticket |
|---|---|---|---|
| Akita Station to Sakata Station | 3,150 yen | 2,310 yen | 840 yen |
Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Limited Express Fare
The fare for "RESORT SHONAI" is the sum of the basic 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 basic 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, high season, or off-season. The fare is divided into the "basic 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 basic 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 SHONAI" 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 booking will allow you to fully enjoy the scenery. On evening services, you may be able to enjoy the sunset over the Sea of Japan.
How to Buy Tickets for "RESORT SHONAI"
Eki-net (Online 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 JST. 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. During high season, Midori-no-madoguchi can get crowded, so it's best to go with plenty of time to spare.
Travel Agencies
Major travel agencies offer travel packages that combine accommodation in the Shonai area with train travel.
How to Buy for Foreign Tourists
"RESORT SHONAI" 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 Midori-no-madoguchi 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 a Paper Ticket?
Even if you purchase your ticket through "Eki-net," you may still need to pick up a paper ticket at a reserved seat ticket 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 IC Cards or Credit Card Touch Payment?
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.
Credit card touch payment for ticket gates is not available.
*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 SHONAI"
Seat Type
"RESORT SHONAI" is an all-reserved-seat train. It features a seating arrangement that makes it easy to enjoy the scenery from the window. During high season, 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.
| Seat Type | Content |
|---|---|
| Ordinary Car Reserved Seat | Seats arranged to allow for easy viewing of the scenery outside the window |
Unique Seating Features
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 Space
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 Midori-no-madoguchi in advance. Multipurpose rooms and wheelchair-accessible facilities may vary depending on the train car and configuration.
Enjoy Ekiben (Station Lunch Boxes) and Onboard Dining on "RESORT SHONAI"
The "RESORT SHONAI" train will feature events such as onboard sales in conjunction with its operation. Shonai is known as a rice-producing region, and its cuisine, featuring seafood from the Sea of Japan and local ingredients, is also a major draw. After arriving at Sakata Station, you can enjoy local cuisine and sake around the station and in the Shonai area. The contents of the onboard sales may vary depending on the operating day, so please check the latest information on the JR East official website.
Important Notes When Riding "RESORT SHONAI"
"RESORT SHONAI" 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. The JR Uetsu Main Line is susceptible to strong winds, so be sure to check the operating status. During winter, delays and cancellations may occur due to snow and strong winds. Operating days and sections may vary from year to year. During high season, stations and trains can be crowded, so allow plenty of time for your journey. 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 SHONAI" is a special rapid train operated by JR East that will run from Akita Station to Sakata Station on July 11th and 12th, 2026. Using the Resort Shirakami Buna trainset, passengers can enjoy the scenery of Mount Chokai, the Sea of Japan, and the Shonai Plain as they travel to the Shonai region. Since it operates on limited days and all seats are reserved, be sure to check the operating times and reserve your seat in advance.
Enjoy a journey through the Shonai region on "RESORT SHONAI," which takes you along the Sea of Japan and through rice-producing areas.
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