Limited Express "Sazanami" Timetable, Fares, and Ticket Purchasing Information

This article provides a comprehensive overview of JR East's Limited Express "Sazanami", which connects Tokyo Station and Kimitsu 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 between the Uchibo area and Tokyo Bay, 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 "Sazanami" is a JR East train connecting Tokyo Station and Kimitsu Station via the JR Keiyo Line and JR Uchibo Line. It serves as an access train to the Uchibo area on the western side of the Boso Peninsula. It mainly operates during weekday mornings and evenings and is frequently used by commuters and business travelers. The train uses E257 series electric trains, which are characterized by their calm interiors. All seats are reserved, so advance seat reservations are required to board. It supports ticketless limited express tickets through "Eki-net", making it easy to use. Since there are train services with similar names and destinations, it is recommended to check the train name and destination on the departure information display before boarding.

What is the Limited Express "Sazanami"?

The Limited Express "Sazanami" is a JR East train named after the gentle waves of Tokyo Bay. The JR Uchibo Line runs from Soga Station along the western coast of the Boso Peninsula to Awa-Kamogawa Station. The "Sazanami" runs directly from Tokyo Station to the JR Uchibo Line via the JR Keiyo Line. It is the counterpart to the Limited Express "Wakashio", which heads towards the Sotobo area. Kimitsu is also known as an industrial city with steel mills.

Train features and popular points

The appeal of the Limited Express "Sazanami" lies in the fact that you can travel from central Tokyo to the Uchibo area with guaranteed seating. Since all seats are reserved, you can travel comfortably even during peak hours. On some days, you can see Mount Fuji across Tokyo Bay from Uchibo. Kisarazu is the Chiba Prefecture gateway to the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line. The Umihotaru Parking Area is located on an artificial island of the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line. Around Kimitsu, there are attractions such as the Nomizo Falls at Shimizu Keiryu Hiroba. From Goi Station, you can transfer to the Kominato Railway to head to the rural areas of Boso. If you use the ticketless limited express ticket from "Eki-net", you can ride without a paper ticket. If you check the stations served and travel time before boarding, it will be easier to plan an itinerary that includes stopovers. The impression of the scenery from the train window changes greatly depending on the season, so it is recommended to choose the time of year according to your purpose. There are many observation spots overlooking Tokyo Bay in the Uchibo area. Mount Nokogiri is known for the Great Buddha of Nihonji Temple and the Jigoku-Nozoki (Hell's Gaze) viewpoint.

Limited Express "Sazanami" Timetable

*The Limited Express "Sazanami" operates several round trips a day, mainly on weekdays.

Downbound (towards Kimitsu Station) timetable

Upbound (towards Tokyo Station) Timetable

The Limited Express "Sazanami" operates several round trips daily, mainly on weekdays. Since times may change depending on the season and schedule 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 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 arrival.

• Limited Express Price, Ticket and Timetable - ekitan

Important Notes on Operating Days and Suspensions

The Limited Express "Sazanami" operates mainly on weekdays. On weekends and holidays, the number of trains is reduced, or there may be no service at all. During peak travel seasons, extra trains may be operated.

Operating Sections of the Limited Express "Sazanami"

Main Sections

• Tokyo Station to Soga Station (JR Keiyo Line)
• Soga Station to Kisarazu Station (JR Uchibo Line)
• Kisarazu Station to Kimitsu Station (JR Uchibo Line)

Kimitsu Station is the gateway to the Uchibo area. Nomizo Falls and Kameiwa Cave are known for their fantastical scenery. Kisarazu is the Chiba Prefecture side gateway to the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line. You can enjoy a panoramic view of Tokyo Bay from the Umihotaru Parking Area. From Goi Station, you can transfer to the Kominato Railway to head to the rural areas of Boso. By transferring between the Kominato Railway and the Isumi Railway, you can cross the Boso Peninsula. There are large commercial facilities and stadiums around Kaihin-Makuhari Station. Since getting to nearby 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 stations 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. The outlet mall in Kisarazu is bustling with shoppers.

Stations Served by the Limited Express "Sazanami"

Main Stations Served

• Tokyo Station
• Kaihin-Makuhari Station
• Soga Station
• Goi Station
• Kisarazu Station
• Kimitsu Station

*The stations served may vary depending on the service.

Fares for the Limited Express "Sazanami"

Representative Section Fares

Breakdown of Basic Fare and Limited Express Surcharge

The fare for the Limited Express "Sazanami" is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the limited express surcharge. Since all seats are reserved, the limited express surcharge is the reserved seat limited express surcharge. Discounts may be available if you purchase a ticketless limited express ticket through "Eki-net". When purchasing tickets, make sure you have both the basic fare ticket and the seat ticket. JR's limited express surcharges are set according to the distance traveled, and the amount may vary depending on whether it is a regular season, peak season, or off-peak season. 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 train with just a basic fare ticket, as you must purchase both.

Differences from "Wakashio"

Two limited express trains operate on the Boso Peninsula: the Limited Express "Sazanami" and the Limited Express "Wakashio". The Limited Express "Sazanami" runs along the JR Uchibo Line, traversing the western side of the Boso Peninsula. The Limited Express "Wakashio" runs along the JR Sotobo Line, traversing the eastern side of the Boso Peninsula. Choose the train that best suits your destination.

How to Buy Tickets for the Limited Express "Sazanami"

Eki-net (Online Reservation)

JR East's online reservation service, "Eki-net", allows you to purchase ticketless limited express tickets 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, section, 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.

 

 

Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and Midori-no-madoguchi

You can purchase reserved seat limited express tickets at ticket vending machines and Midori-no-madoguchi at stations. Since all seats are reserved, you cannot board the train without securing a seat. Ticket vending 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 accommodation in the Uchibo area with train travel.

How to buy for foreign tourists

The Limited Express "Sazanami" is a JR East train, 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 a Physical Ticket?

If you use the ticketless limited express ticket service "Eki-net", you do not need to pick up a paper ticket. If you purchase your ticket at a designated seat ticket machine or at a Midori-no-madoguchi, you will need to pick up a paper limited express ticket before boarding. If you pick up a paper ticket, it is 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 Payments?

Since the operating section is within the Suica area, you can use a transportation IC card for the fare portion. By combining a ticketless limited express ticket from "Eki-net" with Suica, you can board without a paper ticket. Transportation IC cards can sometimes be used across regions due to the nationwide interoperability service. However, the usable area is determined by each railway company, so be sure to check in advance whether your boarding section is within their area.

Contactless payment via credit card is not available for boarding at ticket gates.

*Please note that you cannot ride the limited express train with just an IC card. Limited express fares and reserved seat tickets must be purchased separately.

Seating Information for the Limited Express "Sazanami"

Seat Type

The Limited Express "Sazanami" is operated using E257 series trains and consists entirely of reserved-seat ordinary cars. 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.

Seat Features

The E257 series is a limited express train equipped with reclining seats. Each seat has a table and a drink holder. Depending on the train set, each seat may have a power outlet. From seats on the Tokyo Bay side, you can enjoy views of the sea. The scenery changes depending on the direction of travel, so it's a good idea to check your seat location when making a reservation. Window seats are suitable if you want to enjoy the scenery, while aisle seats are suitable if you prioritize ease of boarding and alighting. For long journeys, it's best to check your seat location in advance and make a reservation for a more comfortable experience.

Luggage Storage Area

Luggage storage areas may be provided within the train set.

Accessibility Features

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

 

 

Enjoy Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and Onboard Gourmet Food on the Limited Express "Sazanami"

There is no onboard sales service on the Limited Express "Sazanami". It is recommended to purchase drinks and snacks at a shop in Tokyo Station before boarding. In Kisarazu, dishes using clams are a local specialty. In Uchibo, you can enjoy seafood from Tokyo Bay. Since the opening hours of the station shops may be limited, it is best to stop by early. There is a wide variety of ekiben (station bento boxes), so it is fun to take some time to choose one before boarding. If you eat or drink on the train, please be considerate of others by avoiding foods with strong odors, etc., so that everyone can have 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 Limited Express "Sazanami"

The Limited Express "Sazanami" has all reserved seats, so you cannot board without a reserved seat. It mainly operates on weekdays, so there may be fewer trains on weekends and holidays. The operating section is different from the Limited Express "Wakashio", so be sure to check which train you are taking. It may be full during morning and evening rush hours due to commuter use. The JR Keiyo Line platform at Tokyo Station is far from other lines, so transfers take time. During peak seasons, both the station and the train will be crowded, so be sure to allow plenty of time. 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, please prepare drinks and snacks before boarding. Before boarding, please check the train schedule on Ekitan or the railway company's official website.

Summary

The Limited Express "Sazanami" is a JR East train connecting Tokyo Station and Kimitsu Station. All seats are reserved, guaranteeing a seat for travel from central Tokyo to the Uchibo area. Since it mainly operates on weekdays, be sure to check the operating days and times before boarding.

Enjoy your trip to Uchibo aboard the Limited Express "Sazanami", which offers views of the calm waters of Tokyo Bay.

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.