"SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN" Timetable, Fares, and Ticket Purchasing Information

This article provides information on the JR Hokkaido sightseeing train "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN", which connects Kushiro Station and Shibecha Station, including its timetable, fares, stopping stations, seating, how to buy tickets, whether tickets need to be issued, and IC card availability. This all-reserved train operates only during the winter season, allowing passengers to enjoy the snowy scenery of the Kushiro Marshland and its retro train cars.

The information in this article is current as of July 2026. Operating days, times, fares, and sales conditions may change, so please check the latest information on Ekitan or the JR Hokkaido official website before use.

The "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN" is a winter-only sightseeing train operated by JR Hokkaido, connecting Kushiro Station and Shibecha Station via the Senmo Main Line. Operated only during the winter season, its popularity stems from the sight of a steam locomotive running through the snow-covered Kushiro Marshland. The train is pulled by a C11-type steam locomotive. The train cars are equipped with potbelly stoves, offering a retro winter travel experience. All seats are reserved, so advance seat reservations are required. If you're lucky, you might even spot a red-crowned crane, a Special Natural Monument, from the train window. Since there are trains with similar names and destinations, it's advisable to check the departure display before boarding to ensure you get the correct train name and destination.

What is the "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN"?

The "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN" is a steam locomotive train operated by JR Hokkaido that runs through the Kushiro Marshland in winter. The Kushiro Marshland is the largest marshland in Japan and is a Ramsar Convention Wetland. In winter, the marshland is covered in snow and enveloped in a unique tranquility. The C11 type is a small tank-type steam locomotive, suitable for operation on local lines. Sometimes, a service of grilling dried squid and similar items is offered on the potbelly stove inside the train cars.

Train features and popular points

The charm of the "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN" lies in the unique experience of traveling through snowy marshlands on a steam locomotive. The contrast between the black steam locomotive and the rising white smoke against the white snowfields is striking. The potbelly stoves inside the train cars provide a warm touch unique to winter. Sometimes, a service of grilling dried squid on the stove is offered, creating a memorable travel experience. The red-crowned crane is a Special Natural Monument that overwinters around the Kushiro Marshland. If you're lucky, you might spot red-crowned cranes or Ezo deer from the train window. Lake Toro freezes completely in winter, and smelt fishing is enjoyed there. The winter scenery of the Kushiro Marshland is also a popular subject for photography enthusiasts. Checking the stopping stations and travel time before boarding will make it easier to plan an itinerary that includes stops along the way. The view from the train window changes greatly depending on the season, so it's recommended to choose the time of year that suits your purpose. In winter, you can see rime ice on the trees in the Kushiro Marsh. In eastern Hokkaido during winter, you can enjoy seasonal natural phenomena such as drift ice and hoarfrost.

Timetable for the "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN"

The "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN" operates only on winter operating days. In 2026, it began operation on January 17th. It generally operates one round trip per day, taking approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes from Kushiro Station to Shibecha Station. Specific times vary depending on the operating day, so please check Ekitan or the JR Hokkaido official website.

Downbound (towards Shibecha Station) timetable

Upbound (towards Kushiro Station) timetable

The "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN" operates only on winter operating days. Since the times may change due to season or timetable revisions, it's best to check the latest times on the Ekitan website before boarding. Since the number of services is limited, be sure to check the round-trip schedule when planning your itinerary. If you have connecting trains or buses, choose connections that allow ample time from your arrival time for peace of mind.

• Limited Express Fares, Tickets, and Timetable - Ekitan

Important information regarding operating days and days when the service is suspended.

The "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN" is a train that operates only on winter operating days. Operating days are announced in advance, so please be sure to check if you plan to ride. Due to vehicle maintenance or other reasons, a diesel locomotive may be used as a substitute.

Operating Section of the "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN"

Main Sections

• Kushiro Station to Kushiro-Shitsugen Station (Senmo Main Line)
• Kushiro-Shitsugen Station to Toro Station (Senmo Main Line)
• Toro Station to Shibecha Station (Senmo Main Line)

Shibecha is a town located north of the Kushiro Marshland. Lake Toro freezes over in winter, and smelt fishing is enjoyed there. From Kushiro-Shitsugen Station, you can access the Hosooka Observatory. From the Hosooka Observatory, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the meandering Kushiro River and the marshland. In Tsurui Village, you can observe red-crowned cranes up close at their feeding grounds. At Washo Market in Kushiro, the local specialty is Kattedon. Lake Akan can be accessed by bus from Kushiro. Getting around the surrounding tourist spots is mainly by bus or on foot, so it's a good idea to check local transportation options beforehand. There are often tourist information centers at stations where you can get maps and brochures. For lines with limited services, it's wise to check the return train and bus schedules as well. Within Kushiro city, there are many famous spots such as the Nusamai Bridge and places to enjoy the sunset.

Stopping Stations for the "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN"

Main Stopping Stations

• Kushiro Station
• Kushiro-Shitsugen Station
• Toro Station
• Kayanuma Station
• Shibecha Station

Stopping stations may vary depending on the train and operating day.

Fares for the "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN"

Representative Section Fares

All seats are reserved. A reserved seat ticket is required in addition to the basic fare ticket.

The "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN" is not a limited express train, so a reserved seat ticket is required instead of a limited express ticket. Please check the latest fares and reserved seat fares on Ekitan or the JR Hokkaido official website.

Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Reserved Seat Fare

To ride the "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN," you will need a basic fare ticket for your section and a reserved seat ticket. Since all seats are reserved, you cannot board without a reserved seat ticket. As it is not a limited express train, a limited express ticket is not required.

About Daruma stoves

A potbelly stove is installed inside the train car. Sometimes, a service is offered where dried squid and similar items are grilled around the stove. The stove gets very hot, so small children should not get too close. Although the inside of the train car is warm, it gets very cold when boarding and alighting, so warm clothing is essential.

How to Buy Tickets for the "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN"

Eki-net (Internet Reservation)

Reserved seats for JR Hokkaido trains can be booked through online reservation services such as Eki-net. 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. Payment can be made by credit card, and depending on the purchase method, cash may also be accepted. 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 tickets at the station's reserved seat ticket machines or 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 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 Agencies

Major travel agencies offer travel packages that combine sightseeing in eastern Hokkaido with train travel.

How to Buy for International Tourists

The "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN" is a JR Hokkaido train, so it can be used with the JR Pass or Hokkaido Rail 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 information in foreign languages. Special tickets for international visitors may have limited purchase conditions and sales locations, so it is advisable to check before traveling.

Is a Physical Ticket Required?

Even if you purchase your tickets online, you may still need to pick up a paper ticket at a designated 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 immediately before boarding. Tickets cannot be reissued if lost, so please keep them safe during your journey.

Can IC Cards or Credit Card Touch Payments Be Used?

IC cards cannot be used on the Senmo Main Line. You will need to prepare to purchase tickets with cash or from a ticket vending machine. While some transportation IC cards can be used across regions through the nationwide interoperability service, the usable area is determined by each railway company, so be sure to check in advance whether your section is within their service area.

Credit card touch payment service for boarding at ticket gates is not provided.

*IC cards cannot be used. Please purchase your basic fare ticket and reserved seat ticket in advance.

Seating Information for the "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN"

Seat Types

The "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN" is an all-reserved-seat train. It features train cars equipped with potbelly stoves. Because seating is limited, 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 wish to sit next to your travel companions, booking together makes it easier to secure adjacent seats.

Distinctive seating

The train cars feature an interior that retains a retro atmosphere. The seats are box seats, arranged facing each other. A potbelly stove is installed to keep the train warm in winter. Seats on the marshland side offer stunning views of the snow-covered plains. 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 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's best to check your seat location in advance and make a reservation for a more comfortable experience.

Large Luggage Storage

Space for large luggage is limited. Large items will need to be placed in the space at your feet.

Barrier-Free Facilities

There are steps in the train cars. If you will be using a wheelchair, it is recommended to contact JR Hokkaido in advance. The availability of multi-purpose rooms and wheelchair-accessible facilities may vary depending on the train car and formation.

 

 

Enjoy Ekiben and Onboard Food on the "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN".

On the "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN," light meals, drinks, and souvenirs may be sold on board. There may also be a service where dried squid is grilled over a potbelly stove. At Washo Market in Kushiro, the famous "Kattedon" (a rice bowl dish where you choose your favorite seafood toppings) is a must-try. Eastern Hokkaido is rich in seafood such as salmon roe and crab. Onboard sales vary depending on the service and season, so it's best to prepare drinks and light meals before boarding. Station shops may have limited operating hours, so it's a good idea to stop by early. Souvenirs may be available in limited quantities, so it's best to purchase them early. When eating or drinking on board, please be considerate of others by avoiding foods with strong odors. Dispose of empty containers and trash in the trash cans on board or at the station after disembarking.

Points to Note When Riding the "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN"

The "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN" operates only on winter operating days, so be sure to check the operating days before planning your trip. All seats are reserved, so you cannot board without a reserved seat. Winter in eastern Hokkaido is extremely cold, so adequate cold weather gear is essential. The potbelly stoves get very hot, so be careful not to get too close. Due to its popularity, reserved seats may sell out quickly. During high season, 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 racks to avoid blocking the aisle. Onboard, it is good manners to keep phone calls to a minimum so as not to disturb other passengers.

Whether or not you can see red-crowned cranes depends on the conditions of the day. Before boarding, please check the operating status for the day on Ekitan or the railway company's official website.

Summary

The "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN" is a steam locomotive train operated by JR Hokkaido, connecting Kushiro Station and Shibecha Station. This special winter-only train runs through the snow-covered Kushiro Marshland. Passengers can enjoy the winter charm of Hokkaido along with the warmth of a potbelly stove.

Enjoy the winter scenery of Kushiro Marshland aboard the "SL FUYU-NO-SHITSUGEN TRAIN," where the sound of its whistle echoes across the snow-covered plains.

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 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.