"SL Yamaguchi" Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR West sightseeing rapid train "SL Yamaguchi," which connects Shin-Yamaguchi Station and Tsuwano Station in Yamaguchi Prefecture. It includes timetables, fares for representative sections, stations where the train stops, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. It is a representative steam locomotive sightseeing train in western Japan, where a steam locomotive pulls passenger cars, and we have summarized 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 "SL Yamaguchi" is a sightseeing rapid train pulled by a steam locomotive, connecting Shin-Yamaguchi Station and Tsuwano Station via the JR Yamaguchi Line. It began operation in 1979, and currently, as part of the preservation and operation of steam locomotives, C57 Class and D51 Class locomotives pull retro-designed 35 series passenger cars. It is a seasonal train, operating only on specific days, mainly weekends and holidays. All seats are reserved, so advance seat reservations are required. Even after more than 45 years since its inception, it remains a highly popular train among railway enthusiasts both domestically and internationally, representing the preservation and operation of steam locomotives in Japan. Item Content Train Name "SL Yamaguchi" Operating Company JR West Main Operating Sections Shin-Yamaguchi Station to Tsuwano Station (via the JR Yamaguchi Line) Main Starting and Ending Stations Shin-Yamaguchi Station / Tsuwano Station Number of Services One round trip per day (seasonal service mainly on weekends and holidays) Estimated Travel Time Shin-Yamaguchi to Tsuwano: Approximately 2 hours Seating Reserved Seats in Ordinary Cars (a reserved seat fare is required as this is a rapid train) 
Table of Contents
- What is "SL Yamaguchi"?
- Timetable for the "SL Yamaguchi"
- Operating Section of the "SL Yamaguchi"
- Stations Where the "SL Yamaguchi" Stops
- Fares for the "SL Yamaguchi"
- How to Buy Tickets for the "SL Yamaguchi"
- Is a Physical Ticket Required?
- Can IC Cards or Credit Card Touch Payments Be Used?
- Seating Information for the "SL Yamaguchi"
- Ekiben and Onboard Dining on the "SL Yamaguchi"
- Points to Note When Riding the "SL Yamaguchi"
- Summary
What is "SL Yamaguchi"?
The "SL Yamaguchi" is a sightseeing rapid train pulled by a steam locomotive that runs on the JR Yamaguchi Line and began operation in August 1979. It started as a pioneering initiative to preserve and operate steam locomotives that had been retired during the Japanese National Railways era and run them on the main line again. Currently, locomotives such as the C57 Class No. 1 (known by its nickname "Kifujin" or "Lady") and the D51 Class No. 200 pull 35 series passenger cars with retro-style interiors. The C57 Class No. 1 is affectionately known as the "Lady" for its elegant appearance while running and is a particularly popular locomotive among SL fans.
Train Features and Popular Aspects
The appeal of the "SL Yamaguchi" lies in the fact that you can enjoy both the impressive sight of a steam locomotive running on coal and the rural scenery along the JR Yamaguchi Line at the same time. The passenger cars are decorated in a retro style, and some cars even have observation decks or exhibition spaces with materials related to steam locomotives. The area around the final stop, Tsuwano Station, retains a historical townscape known as "Little Kyoto of San'in," and is a popular tourist destination in combination with a steam locomotive journey. There are also many photo spots along the line, and you can see many "railfan" fans enjoying the sight of the steam locomotive in motion at various points along the route.
Timetable for the "SL Yamaguchi"
*The "SL Yamaguchi" may only operate on limited days. Please check the operating dates before deciding on your travel itinerary.
Timetable for trains bound for Tsuwano (Downbound)
| Stations where the train stops | "SL Yamaguchi" (one example) |
|---|---|
| Depart Shin-Yamaguchi | morning |
| Depart Yamaguchi | ― |
| Arrive Tsuwano | Approximately 2 hours later |
Timetable for trains bound for Shin-Yamaguchi (Upbound)
| Stations where the train stops | "SL Yamaguchi" (one example) |
|---|---|
| Depart Tsuwano | afternoon |
| Depart Yamaguchi | ― |
| Arrive Shin-Yamaguchi | Approximately 2 hours later |
*The time shown is an example.
The "SL Yamaguchi" operates one round trip per day between Shin-Yamaguchi Station and Tsuwano Station. Its operating days are mainly weekends, holidays, and during summer vacation, and are determined by the season; it does not run every day throughout the year. During maintenance periods for the SL, a diesel locomotive may substitute, operating as the "DL Yamaguchi."
Important Information Regarding Operating Days and Service Suspensions
The "SL Yamaguchi" is a seasonal train with limited operating days. During regular maintenance of the SL, a diesel locomotive may be used as a substitute, operating as the "DL Yamaguchi," or the service may be cancelled altogether. Therefore, please check JR West's operating days and the locomotive used before traveling. Speed restrictions and service cancellations are more likely during severe weather, so it is advisable to allow some flexibility in your travel itinerary.
Operating Section of the "SL Yamaguchi"
Main Operating Sections
- Shin-Yamaguchi Station to Tsuwano Station (via the JR Yamaguchi Line)
Tsuwano Station is located in a historic town known as "Little Kyoto of San'in," and boasts attractions such as the Tsuwano Castle Ruins and Taikodani Inari Shrine. Along the JR Yamaguchi Line, you can also find the scenic beauty of the Nagato Gorge.
Stations Where the "SL Yamaguchi" Stops
Main Stations Where the Train Stops
- Shin-Yamaguchi Station
- Yamaguchi Station
- Jifuku Station
- Tokusa Station
- Tsuwano Station
*The stations where the train stops may vary depending on the train and operating day.
Fares for the "SL Yamaguchi"
Representative Section Fares
| Section | Total Fare (Adult, Estimated) | Basic Fare Ticket | Reserved Seat Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shin-Yamaguchi Station to Tsuwano Station | Basic Fare Ticket + Reserved Seat Fare | Basic fare for the travel section is required separately. | Reserved seat fare: 1,680 yen |
| Shin-Yamaguchi Station to Tsuwano Station (when using Green Car) | Basic Fare Ticket + Green Car Fare | Basic fare for the travel section is required separately. | Green Car fare: 2,500 yen |
*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 the "SL Yamaguchi" is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the reserved seat fare. For a reserved seat in an ordinary car, the reserved seat fare is approximately 1,680 yen, and for a Green Car seat, the Green Car fare is approximately 2,500 yen. All seats are reserved; there are no unreserved seats. Reserved seat fares for children are half price, and Green Car fares are the same as for adults.
Facilities of the Special 35 Series Passenger Cars
Some passenger cars are special, featuring observation decks and exhibition spaces for materials related to steam locomotives. These cars are very popular and sometimes sell out immediately after tickets go on sale.
How to Buy Tickets for the "SL Yamaguchi"
e5489 (Online Reservation)
JR West's online reservation service, "e5489," allows you to purchase reserved seat tickets using a credit card. Because it's a popular sightseeing train, tickets often sell out immediately after going on sale, so early booking is recommended. 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 Ticket Offices
You can also purchase reserved seat tickets at the ticket vending machines or ticket offices at the station.
Travel Agencies
Major travel agencies also offer tour packages that include reserved seat tickets for the "SL Yamaguchi."
How to Purchase for International Visitors
The "SL Yamaguchi" is operated by JR West, and may be usable with eligible passes such as the JAPAN RAIL PASS. Availability of reserved seats in ordinary cars and Green Cars varies depending on the type of pass, so please check the terms and conditions when making your reservation.
*The applicable routes and usage conditions for each pass vary depending on the type of pass.
Is a Physical Ticket Required?
Even when booking through online services such as "e5489," in most cases you will need to pick up your ticket at a designated ticket vending machine at the station before boarding. Some special promotional tickets may offer a ticketless service.
Can IC Cards or Credit Card Touch Payments Be Used?
The "SL Yamaguchi" is a sightseeing train that runs on the JR Yamaguchi Line, so it is safer to purchase a basic fare ticket and a reserved seat ticket in advance rather than just using a transportation IC card. The reserved seat fare cannot be settled using the balance on your IC card.
On the route operated by the "SL Yamaguchi," contactless payment via credit card is not available 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 Yamaguchi Line may be outside the IC card usage area.
Seating Information for the "SL Yamaguchi"
Seat Types (All Seats Reserved)
The "SL Yamaguchi" is operated using 35 series passenger cars, and all seats are reserved. There are no unreserved seats.
| Seat Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Reserved Seats in Ordinary Cars | Retro-style interior, standard seating arrangement |
| Observation Car | Some cars have an observation deck and a display space for exhibits and materials related to SLs. |
| Unreserved Seats | None (All seats are reserved) |
Unique Seating Features
The 35 series passenger cars are unified in a retro design, allowing passengers to fully experience the atmosphere of a steam locomotive journey. Some cars have observation decks, where passengers can enjoy the scenery while feeling the breeze as the train moves. There are also cars equipped with exhibition spaces for materials related to steam locomotives, making them popular with railway enthusiasts. The exterior and interior of the passenger cars are designed in a retro style reminiscent of passenger cars from the Meiji to Showa periods.
Large Luggage Space
There is space provided within the train for storing large luggage.
Barrier-Free Facilities
While the 35 series passenger cars are equipped with onboard facilities, the availability of wheelchair-accessible seats and barrier-free facilities may vary depending on the train configuration and ticket sales conditions. If you require wheelchair access, please consult with JR West's ticket office or information center before making a reservation.
Ekiben and Onboard Dining on the "SL Yamaguchi"
On the "SL Yamaguchi," some services offer onboard sales of local specialties and souvenirs. If you want to enjoy a meal, it's recommended to prepare in advance at the Ekiben shops and stalls around Shin-Yamaguchi Station or Tsuwano Station. Around Tsuwano Station, there are plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy local Tsuwano cuisine such as Uzume-meshi. Around Shin-Yamaguchi Station, there are also plenty of shops selling local specialties and railway goods.
*Availability of in-train sales and Ekiben varies depending on the train and time of year.
Points to Note When Riding the "SL Yamaguchi"
The "SL Yamaguchi" is a seasonal train with limited operating days, so if you wish to ride it, be sure to check the operating days and the locomotive used in advance. Since all seats are reserved, early reservations are important. Also, if you are enjoying a day trip that includes sightseeing in Tsuwano, it is a good idea to plan your sightseeing schedule by working backward from the departure time of the upbound train.
Please note that soot from steam locomotives may enter through the windows, so if you leave the windows open for an extended period, your clothes may get dirty. Some sections of the JR Yamaguchi Line may be outside the IC card usage area, so it is recommended to purchase your basic fare ticket in advance.
Summary
The "SL Yamaguchi" is a sightseeing rapid train pulled by a steam locomotive, connecting Shin-Yamaguchi Station and Tsuwano Station via the JR Yamaguchi Line. Since its launch in 1979, it has been highly popular as a train that allows passengers to experience a journey on a preserved, operational steam locomotive. All seats are reserved, so both a basic fare ticket and a reserved seat fare are required, but the fare is more affordable than limited express fares. It may be possible to use it with eligible passes such as the JAPAN RAIL PASS. The handling of reserved seats in ordinary cars and Green Cars varies depending on the type of pass, so please check when making a reservation. For over 45 years since its launch in 1979, it has been a beloved train that symbolizes the preservation and operation of steam locomotives in Japan.
Operating days, timetables, and fares are subject to change, so be sure to check the latest information on the JR West website before departure. Enjoy the "SL Yamaguchi," where you can experience the power of a steam locomotive and the rural scenery along the JR Yamaguchi Line.
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