Limited Express "SUPER TSUGARU" Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR East "SUPER TSUGARU" limited express train connecting Akita Station and Aomori Station, including its timetable, 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 Tsugaru/Hirosaki and Aomori, 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 "SUPER TSUGARU" is a JR East limited express train connecting Akita Station and Aomori Station via the Ou Main Line. It is designed as a faster train with fewer stops than the conventional "Tsugaru" train. It connects with the Akita Shinkansen and Tohoku Shinkansen, providing quick access to major cities in northern Tohoku. The train uses E751 series electric trains. Since there are unreserved seats, you can easily board without a reservation. From the train windows, you can enjoy the mountain range of the Shirakami Mountains and the view of Mount Iwaki rising above the Tsugaru Plain. 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.

What is "SUPER TSUGARU"?

The "Super Tsugaru" is a JR East express train named after the Tsugaru region. The Ou Main Line is a major northeastern railway line in Tohoku, running from Fukushima Station through Yamagata and Akita to Aomori Station. By reducing the number of stops compared to the "Tsugaru," the journey time is shortened. The E751 series train cars were formerly used for the "Super Hatsukari" service. At Shin-Aomori Station, the train's schedule is designed to connect with the Tohoku Shinkansen.

Train features and popular points

The appeal of the "SUPER TSUGARU" lies in its speed, connecting major cities in northern Tohoku in a short amount of time. Because it has fewer stops, the journey time is shorter than that of the "Tsugaru" train. Mount Iwaki, also known as "Tsugaru Fuji," is a beautiful mountain that can be seen from the train window. Hirosaki Castle is a castle with an existing keep, and its cherry blossoms in spring are known as one of Japan's most famous spots. The cherry blossoms in Hirosaki Park number around 2,600 and the rafts of petals that fill the moat are a famous sight. The Nebuta Festival in Aomori is one of Tohoku's representative summer festivals. The Shirakami Mountains are a region with a vast primeval beech forest that is registered as a World Natural Heritage site. Tsugaru is the top producer of apples in Japan, and apple orchards stretch out from the train window. Checking the stops and journey time before boarding will make it easier to plan an itinerary that includes stops along the way. 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. The Ou Main Line is a long railway line that runs north-south through the Tohoku region.

"Super Tsugaru" train timetable

Downbound (towards Aomori Station) timetable

Timetable for northbound trains (towards Akita Station)

The "Tsugaru" line, including the "SUPER TSUGARU," operates three round trips per day between Akita Station and Aomori Station. Since the stopping stations differ for each train, please check the timetable and stopping stations on the Ekitan website for your travel date.

• Limited Express Price, Ticket and Timetable - ekitan

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

The "SUPER TSUGARU" train operates daily throughout the year. During winter, delays or service suspensions may occur due to snowfall or strong winds. Since its stops differ from those of the "Tsugaru" train, it is necessary to check before boarding.

Operating section of "SUPER TSUGARU"

Main sections

• Akita Station to Odate Station (Ou Main Line)
• Odate Station to Hirosaki Station (Ou Main Line)
• Hirosaki Station to Aomori Station (Ou Main Line)

Hirosaki Station is the gateway to Hirosaki Castle and Tsugaru tourism. The cherry blossoms in Hirosaki Park are nationally known as one of Japan's leading cherry blossom viewing spots. Hirosaki Castle's existing keep is the only one in Tohoku. Near Aomori Station is the Nebuta Museum Wa-Rasse. You can transfer to the Tohoku Shinkansen from Shin-Aomori Station. The Sannai-Maruyama Site is a large-scale settlement from the Jomon period and is registered as a World Heritage Site. Odate is known as the birthplace of kiritanpo and the Akita dog. Since travel to surrounding tourist spots is mainly by bus or on foot, it is a good idea to check local transportation options in advance. There are often tourist information centers around the station where you can obtain maps and brochures. For lines with limited service, it is reassuring to check the return train and bus schedules as well. If you transfer to the Gono Line, you can enjoy spectacular views along the Sea of ​​Japan.

Stations where the "SUPER TSUGARU" train stops

Main stops

• Akita Station
• Higashi-Noshiro Station
• Odate Station
• Hirosaki Station
• Shin-Aomori Station
• Aomori Station

"SUPER TSUGARU" fares

Representative section fare

Breakdown of train ticket and express train fare

The fare for the "SUPER TSUGARU" is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the limited express surcharge. The limited express surcharge differs between reserved and unreserved seats, with reserved seats being slightly more expensive. When purchasing tickets, make sure you have both the basic fare ticket and the limited express surcharge. JR's limited express surcharges are set according to the distance traveled, and the amount may vary depending on whether it is a normal 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; you must purchase both.

The difference from "Tsugaru"

On the Ou Main Line between Akita and Aomori, two trains operate: the "Tsugaru" and the "Super Tsugaru." The "Super Tsugaru" is an express train with fewer stops, resulting in a shorter travel time. The "Tsugaru" stops at more stations. Choose the train that best suits your destination.

How to buy tickets for "SUPER TSUGARU"

Ekinet (Internet reservation)

JR East's online reservation service, "Ekinet," 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. 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 ticket counters

You can purchase reserved seat express train tickets at the station's reserved seat ticket vending machines or at the Midori-no-Madoguchi (ticket office). If you wish to use a non-reserved seat, you only need to purchase a regular train ticket and a non-reserved express train ticket. Ticket vending 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 peak seasons, so it's best to go with plenty of time to spare.

travel agency

Major travel agencies offer travel packages that combine accommodation and train travel in the Hirosaki/Aomori area.

How to buy for foreign tourists

The "SUPER TSUGARU" 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, you will need to obtain a separate seat reservation ticket if you wish to use a reserved seat. Some station ticket counters offer information 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 to get a physical ticket?

Whether or not you need to receive a physical ticket depends on the product you purchased. Ekinet Q-Tickets and eligible conventional line ticketless express tickets can be used without receiving a paper ticket. If you choose a paper ticket or express ticket, please pick it up at a designated seat ticket vending machine or similar location before boarding.

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

When traveling between Akita Station and Aomori Station, you cannot board using only a transportation IC card. The Suica areas for Akita and Aomori are separate, so you must use a paper ticket or an Ekinet Q-ticket. Within the same Suica area, such as between Aomori Station and Hirosaki Station, you can use your IC card for the ticket portion.

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

Seat information for "SUPER TSUGARU"

Seat type

The "SUPER TSUGARU" train is operated using E751 series trains and consists of Green Car seats, reserved ordinary seats, and unreserved seats. During peak seasons, 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.

Distinctive seating

The E751 series is a limited express train characterized by its calm and sophisticated interior. The seats are equipped with a reclining function, ensuring a comfortable journey even on long distances. From the seats on the side facing Mount Iwaki, you can enjoy a view of the beautiful mountain known as Tsugaru Fuji. In winter, the scenery from the window as the train travels through the snowy landscape is also a highlight. Since the view changes depending on the direction of travel, it is a good idea to check the 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 is recommended to check the seat location in advance and make a reservation for a more comfortable experience.

Large luggage storage area

Luggage racks may be provided at the ends of the train cars.

Barrier-free facilities

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.

Bento boxes and in-train gourmet food you can enjoy on the "SUPER TSUGARU" train.

On the "SUPER TSUGARU" train, there is no onboard sales service. If you would like to enjoy a meal, it is recommended to purchase it at a station shop before boarding. In Akita, kiritanpo and Inaniwa udon are well-known local specialties. In Aomori, apple-based sweets and local dishes such as kenojiru are popular. Station shops may have limited operating hours, so 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., to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. 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 "SUPER TSUGARU" train.

The "SUPER TSUGARU" has different stopping stations than the "Tsugaru," so please check before boarding. If you use the unreserved seats, you may not be able to find a seat during peak hours. During winter, delays and service suspensions may occur due to snow and strong winds. During the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival and Nebuta Festival, reserved seats may fill up quickly. Tsugaru and Aomori experience heavy snowfall in winter, so warm clothing is necessary. Stations and trains are crowded during peak seasons, so allow plenty of time for travel. Before boarding, please 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.

Since there is no onboard service, please prepare any meals you plan to eat before boarding. It is also a good idea to check the train's operating status on Ekitan or the railway company's official website before boarding.

summary

The "SUPER TSUGARU" is a JR East limited express train connecting Akita Station and Aomori Station via the Ou Main Line. It's a fast service with fewer stops, connecting major cities in northern Tohoku in a short amount of time. Enjoy the journey to Hirosaki and Aomori while taking in the views of Mount Iwaki from the train windows.

Enjoy your trip through northern Tohoku aboard the "SUPER TSUGARU," offering stunning views of Mount Tsugaru Fuji.

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.