Limited Express "REVATY AIZU" Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets - Ekitan

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Tobu Railway's (direct service to the Yagan Railway and Aizu Railway) Limited Express "REVATY AIZU," which connects Asakusa Station to Aizu-Tajima Station. It covers 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 Kinugawa Onsen and Minami-Aizu, 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 Limited Express "REVATY AIZU" is a limited express train operated by Tobu Railway, connecting Asakusa Station and Aizu-Tajima Station. It is a rare long-distance limited express train for a private railway, operating directly across three companies: Tobu Railway, Yagan Railway, and Aizu Railway. It is widely used by tourists as a major means of access to Kinugawa Onsen and Minami-Aizu. The train uses the 500 series "REVATY" rolling stock, which is basically a 3-car formation and can be split and merged. All seats are reserved, so a limited express ticket (seat reservation) is required to ride. From the train windows, you can enjoy the scenery changing from the rural landscape of the Kanto Plain to the Kinugawa Gorge and then to the deep mountains of Minami-Aizu. 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.

ItemContent
Train Name"REVATY AIZU"
Operating CompanyTobu Railway (direct service to Yagan Railway and Aizu Railway)
Main Operating SectionsAsakusa Station to Aizu-Tajima Station
Main Starting and Ending StationsAsakusa Station / Aizu-Tajima Station
Number of Trains RunningSeveral round trips per day
Estimated Travel TimeAsakusa to Aizu-Tajima: Approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes
SeatingAll seats are reserved

The body of the "REVATY AIZU" train

What is the Limited Express "REVATY AIZU"?

The Limited Express "REVATY AIZU" is a limited express train operated by Tobu Railway that provides direct service to the Aizu region. "REVATY" is a portmanteau of "Variety" and "Liberty." The 500 series REVATY trains are based on a three-car formation and can be split and merged at intermediate stations to efficiently operate to multiple destinations. At Shimo-Imaichi Station, the train splits into the Limited Express "REVATY KEGON," which heads towards Nikko, and the Limited Express "REVATY AIZU," which heads towards Aizu. By providing direct service from the Tobu Line to the Yagan Railway and Aizu Railway, the Tokyo metropolitan area and southern Aizu are connected by a single train.

Train Features and Popular Points

The appeal of the Limited Express "REVATY AIZU" lies in its direct access from central Tokyo to Minami-Aizu without transfers. Direct service across three railway companies has greatly improved travel from the Tokyo metropolitan area to the Aizu region. The 500 series REVATY trains are equipped with power outlets at every seat and also support free Wi-Fi. Kinugawa Onsen is one of the leading hot spring resorts in the Kanto region, with inns lining the gorge. On the Kinugawa River cruise, you can enjoy rafting down the river while admiring the strangely shaped rocks of the gorge. Buses to Oze National Park operate from Aizu-Kogen-Ozeguchi Station. Ouchi-juku in Minami-Aizu is a village that preserves the streetscape of an Edo-period post town, with thatched-roof houses lining the streets. In Aizu-Tajima, the Gion Festival is a festival that has been passed down for over 800 years.

Timetable for the Limited Express "REVATY AIZU"

Downbound (towards Aizu-Tajima Station) Timetable

StationsExample 1Example 2
Asakusa Station Dep.6:309:30
Aizu-Tajima Station Arr.9:4212:38

Timetable for Northbound Trains (towards Asakusa Station)

StationsExample 1Example 2
Aizu-Tajima Station Dep.10:5013:03
Asakusa Station Arr.14:1516:16

The Limited Express "REVATY AIZU" operates several round trips per day. 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 between trains 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 Information Regarding Operating Days and Days When the Service is Suspended

The Limited Express "REVATY AIZU" operates daily throughout the year. During winter, snowfall may cause delays or service suspensions in the Aizu area. Reserved seats may fill up quickly during the autumn foliage season.

Operating Section of the Limited Express "REVATY AIZU"

Main Sections

  • Asakusa Station to Shimo-Imaichi Station (Tobu Isesaki Line / Tobu Nikko Line)
  • Shimo-Imaichi Station to Shin-Fujiwara Station (Tobu Kinugawa Line)
  • Shin-Fujiwara Station to Aizu-Kogen-Ozeguchi Station (Yagan Railway Line)
  • Aizu-Kogen-Ozeguchi Station to Aizu-Tajima Station (Aizu Railway Line)

Aizu-Tajima Station is the gateway to sightseeing in Minami-Aizu. Ouchi-juku can be accessed by bus from Yunokami-Onsen Station on the Aizu Railway Line. Yunokami-Onsen Station is known for its thatched-roof station building and has a footbath on the station premises. Around Kinugawa Onsen Station, inns line the gorge and you can enjoy day trips to the hot springs. Tobu World Square is a theme park that recreates buildings from around the world at a 1/25 scale. Nikko Edo Village is a theme park that recreates the streetscape of the Edo period and can be accessed from Kinugawa Onsen Station. Buses to the Oze wetlands run from Aizu-Kogen-Ozeguchi Station. Since getting to the surrounding tourist spots mainly involves buses and walking, it is a good idea to check the local transportation options in advance. There are sometimes tourist information centers around the stations where you can get maps and brochures.

A traveler drinking coffee on the platform

Stations Where the Limited Express "REVATY AIZU" Stops

Main Stops

  • Asakusa Station
  • Kita-Senju Station
  • Kasukabe Station
  • Tochigi Station
  • Shimo-Imaichi Station
  • Kinugawa Onsen Station
  • Aizu-Kogen-Ozeguchi Station
  • Aizu-Tajima Station

*Stopping stations may vary depending on the specific train service.

Fares for the Limited Express "REVATY AIZU"

Representative Section Fare

SectionTotal FareBasic Fare TicketLimited Express Surcharge
Asakusa Station to Aizu-Tajima Station5,800 yen3,310 yen2,490 yen

The fare shown is an example of a one-way trip using a reserved seat for an adult on a representative train departing from Asakusa Station. Fares may vary depending on the train and purchase conditions, so please check the latest fares on the Ekitan website or the official website of each railway company.

Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Limited Express Surcharge

The fare for the Limited Express "REVATY AIZU" is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the limited express surcharge. Since it spans three companies—Tobu Railway Line, Yagan Railway Line, and Aizu Railway Line—the fare is the sum of all companies' fares. The limited express surcharge is also set according to the section of the journey. When purchasing tickets, make sure you have both the basic fare ticket and the limited express ticket. Limited express surcharges on private railways are set according to the section of the journey and do not fluctuate with high season/off-season like JR. The fare is divided into the "basic fare" for the journey to your destination and the "limited express surcharge" for riding the limited express train. Note that you cannot ride the limited express with just a basic fare ticket; you must purchase both.

Points to Note Regarding Fares That Span Three Companies

The Limited Express "REVATY AIZU" operates directly across three railway lines: Tobu Railway Line, Yagan Railway Line, and Aizu Railway Line. The fare is the sum of the fares of each company, so it may be more expensive than JR lines for the same distance. Even when using a Tobu Railway free pass, the Yagan Railway Line and Aizu Railway Line sections may not be covered. If you are heading towards Aizu, it is a good idea to check as special tickets covering all three companies may be available.

How to Buy Tickets for the Limited Express "REVATY AIZU"

Tobu's Ticketless Service

Tobu Railway's online reservation service allows you to purchase limited express tickets using a credit card. It supports ticketless service, allowing you to board by showing your smartphone screen. Limited express tickets go on sale one month prior to the travel date. 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 booking are subject to certain conditions and fees.

Tobu Railway's ticketless service, "Tobu Ticket!", allows you to purchase limited express tickets for the Limited Express "REVATY AIZU" online. There are ways to use the service without registering as a member. Please also check the purchase methods for tickets that span across the Tobu Line, Yagan Railway Line, and Aizu Railway Line.

Station Express Train Ticket Counters and Ticket Machines

You can purchase limited express tickets at ticket offices and vending machines located at major stations such as Asakusa Station. Since all seats are reserved, you cannot board the train without securing a seat. Vending machines often support multilingual displays, 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 high season, so it's best to go with plenty of time to spare.

Travel Agency

Major travel agencies offer travel packages that combine accommodation in Kinugawa Onsen with train travel.

How to Buy for Foreign Tourists

The Limited Express "REVATY AIZU" is operated by Tobu Railway Line, Yagan Railway Line, and Aizu Railway Line, and is therefore not covered by the JR Pass. Tobu Railway offers special tickets for foreign tourists, but a separate limited express surcharge is required if you ride a limited express train. Some station ticket offices offer information in foreign languages. Special tickets for foreign 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?

If you use the ticketless service, you can board the train without receiving a paper ticket. If you purchased your ticket at a ticket machine or ticket office at the station, you will need to carry a paper limited express ticket with you when you board. If you do receive a paper ticket, it is best to pick it up well in advance of your departure, rather than right before boarding. Tickets cannot be reissued if lost, so please keep them safe while you are on the train.

Can I use contactless payment with an IC card or credit card?

While you can use transportation IC cards such as PASMO and Suica on the Tobu Line, the conditions for using IC cards differ on the Yagan Railway Line and Aizu Railway Line sections. If you are traveling from Asakusa Station to Aizu-Tajima Station, the easiest way is to prepare the fare using a paper ticket or the method indicated, and purchase a limited express ticket separately.

You cannot use contactless payment methods such as credit cards to cover the entire route and limited express surcharge across all three companies in one go. Please check the purchase method before boarding.

Seating Information for the Limited Express "REVATY AIZU"

Seat Type

The Limited Express "REVATY AIZU" operates with all reserved seating. The train used is the 500 series "REVATY." During high season, seats fill up quickly, so it's best to book early once your travel dates are decided. When booking, you may be able to choose between window and aisle seats. If you want to sit together with your travel companions, booking together makes it easier to secure adjacent seats.

Seat TypeContent
Ordinary Reserved SeatStandard 2+2 seating arrangement, with power outlets at every seat

Distinctive Seating

The 500 Series REVATY train has power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your devices even on long journeys. Free Wi-Fi service is available on board. The seats are swivel-type reclining seats that can be rotated to face the direction of travel. The train is basically a three-car formation, and is split and merged at Shimo-Imaichi Station. 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 in advance and make a reservation for a more comfortable experience.

Large Luggage Storage Area

There is a luggage rack at the end of the train car. Please use that for large suitcases.

Barrier-Free Facilities

Wheelchair-accessible seating is available. If you wish to use it, we recommend contacting Tobu Railway in advance. Multipurpose rooms and wheelchair-accessible facilities may vary depending on the train car and train set.

Platform shop

Bento Boxes and In-Train Gourmet Food to Enjoy on the Limited Express "REVATY AIZU"

There is no onboard sales service on the Limited Express "REVATY AIZU". It is recommended to purchase drinks and snacks at shops around Asakusa Station before boarding. You can buy hot spring steamed buns and local specialties around Kinugawa Onsen Station. Local Aizu cuisine includes kozuyu soup, sauce katsudon, and wappa meshi. Minami-Aizu is also known as a soba noodle producing area, and Takato soba from Ouchi-juku is a popular local specialty. If you eat or drink 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 Limited Express "REVATY AIZU"

The Limited Express "REVATY AIZU" is an all-reserved-seat train, so you cannot board without purchasing a limited express ticket. Some trains are split and merged at Shimo-Imaichi Station, so be careful not to board the wrong car. As the train is operated by three different companies, the fare is the sum of all companies' fares and may be more expensive. In winter, there is heavy snowfall in Minami-Aizu, so be sure to take precautions against the cold. To get to Ouchi-juku, you will need to take a bus from Yunokami-Onsen Station on the Aizu Railway Line, so be sure to check the bus schedule. Before boarding, be sure to 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.

Since there is no onboard service, be sure to prepare drinks and snacks before boarding. Checking the train's operating status on a site like Ekitan before boarding will help you calmly deal with delays or cancellations.

Summary

The Limited Express "REVATY AIZU" is a limited express train operated by Tobu Railway, connecting Asakusa Station and Aizu-Tajima Station. It operates directly across three railway lines: Tobu Line, Yagan Railway Line, and Aizu Railway Line, providing direct access from central Tokyo to Kinugawa Onsen and Minami-Aizu without transfers. With power outlets at every seat on the 500 series REVATY train, you can enjoy a comfortable journey even on the long-distance trip of approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes.

Enjoy a journey through hot springs and mountain villages on the Limited Express "REVATY AIZU," a train that connects the Tokyo metropolitan area and Minami-Aizu in a single line.

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.