Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets for the "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA" Train

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR East Limited Express train "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA," which connects Ueno Station and Echigo-Yuzawa 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 to Doai Station and Mount Tanigawa, 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 "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA" is a special JR East train that connects Ueno Station and Echigo-Yuzawa Station via the Joetsu Line. Its most distinctive feature is that it stops at the underground platform of Doai Station, known as "Japan's deepest mole station." The southbound platform at Doai Station is located approximately 70 meters underground, and there are 462 steps leading up to the surface. All seats are reserved, so advance seat reservations are required to board. As this train operates only on limited days, you need to check the operating dates if you plan to ride it. It is a counterpart train to the "TANIGAWADAKE LOOP," which operates as an northbound train. Since there are trains with similar names and destinations, it is advisable to check the train name and destination on the departure information display before boarding.

What is "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA"?

The "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA" is a special train that visits the underground platform of Doai Station, a famous spot on the Joetsu Line. The Joetsu Line connects Gunma and Niigata prefectures, and runs through the mountains on the prefectural border via the Shimizu Tunnel. The southbound platform of Doai Station is located inside the Shin-Shimizu Tunnel. As a result, the southbound platform of Doai Station is deep underground and is called the "mole station." The name "mole" comes from this underground platform.

Train Features and Popular Points

The appeal of the "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA" lies in the unique experience of visiting the underground platform at Doai Station. From the southbound platform at Doai Station to the station building above ground, you need to climb 462 steps. After climbing the stairs, you arrive at a quiet station building nestled in the mountains. Mount Tanigawa is one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains, and you can easily enjoy the mountain scenery by ropeway. From the Tanigawadake Ropeway, you can see magnificent mountain scenery. Minakami Onsen is a hot spring resort with inns scattered along the Tone River gorge. Echigo Yuzawa is a town known for its hot springs and ski resort. From the train window, you can enjoy the scenery changing from the Kanto Plain to the mountains. If you check the stops and travel time before boarding, it will be 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 Shimizu Tunnel was the longest tunnel in Japan when it was opened. The Joetsu Line is also known as the setting for Yasunari Kawabata's novel "Snow Country."

Timetable for "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA"

*The "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA" is a train that operates only on certain days.

Downbound (towards Echigo-Yuzawa Station) Timetable

Timetable for Northbound Trains (towards Ueno Station)

*This train does not operate in the opposite direction.

The "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA" train operates only on select days (mainly weekends and holidays). 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. It's a single train service operating only on select days, not a daily service like regular trains. 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 Information Regarding Operating Days and Days When Service is Suspended

The "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA" is a train that operates only on weekends and holidays. Operating days are announced in advance, so please be sure to check if you plan to ride it. Operating days and sections may vary from year to year.

Operating Section of "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA"

Main Sections

• Ueno Station to Takasaki Station (Takasaki Line)
• Takasaki Station to Minakami Station (Joetsu Line)
• Minakami Station to Echigo-Yuzawa Station (Joetsu Line)

Doai Station is known as "Japan's deepest underground station." 462 steps lead from the southbound platform to ground level. The Tanigawadake Ropeway connects Doaiguchi Station to Tenjindaira Station. From Tenjindaira, you can enjoy a close-up view of the majestic Tanigawadake mountain. Minakami Onsen is a hot spring resort spread along the Tone River gorge. In Echigo-Yuzawa, you can enjoy hot springs and skiing. Echigo-Yuzawa Station has a facility where you can sample local sake. Since travel to surrounding tourist attractions is mainly by bus or on foot, it's a good idea to check local transportation options beforehand. Tourist information centers are sometimes located around the station where you can obtain maps and brochures. For lines with limited service, it's wise to check return train and bus schedules as well. Rafting and other outdoor activities are popular around Minakami Station.

Stations Where "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA" Stops

Main Stops

• Ueno Station
• Omiya Station
• Takasaki Station
• Minakami Station
• Doai Station
• Echigo-Yuzawa Station

*The stops vary depending on the train.

Fares for "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA"

Representative Section Fares

Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Limited Express Fare

The fare for the "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA" train is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the reserved seat ticket. Since all seats are reserved, you cannot board the train without securing a seat. When purchasing tickets, make sure you have both the basic fare ticket and the seat ticket. JR Limited Express train fares 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 fare" for riding the Limited Express train. You must purchase both to ride the Limited Express train, so please note that you cannot ride the Limited Express train with just a basic fare ticket.

About the Stairs at Doai Station

From the southbound platform at Doai Station to the station building above ground, there are 462 steps. Climbing the stairs takes approximately 10 minutes. Since the train stops at Doai Station for a limited time, it is necessary to check the time if you plan to climb the stairs round trip. The stairs are somewhat steep, so it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes.

How to Buy Tickets for "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA"

Eki-net (Internet Reservation)

JR East's online reservation service, "Eki-net," 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 Midori-no-madoguchi

You can purchase reserved seat tickets at the station's reserved seat ticket machines or at 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. Midori-no-madoguchi and ticket offices can get crowded during peak seasons, so it's best to go with plenty of time to spare.

Travel Agencies

Major travel agencies offer travel packages that combine accommodation in the Minakami and Echigo-Yuzawa areas with train travel.

How to Buy for Foreign Tourists

The "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA" is a JR East train, so it can be used with the JR 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 to Get a Physical Ticket?

Even if you purchase your ticket through "Eki-net," you may still need to pick up a paper ticket at a designated ticket vending 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 right before boarding. Tickets cannot be reissued if lost, so please keep them safe during your journey.

Can I Use Contactless Payment with an IC Card or Credit Card?

Most of the operating section is within the Suica area, and you can use a transportation IC card for the fare portion. However, some sections of the Joetsu Line may be outside the IC card area. Transportation IC cards can sometimes be used across regions through the nationwide interoperability service. However, the usable area is determined by each railway company, so be sure to check in advance whether your journey is within the area.

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

*Please note that you cannot board the train using only an IC card. A reserved seat ticket must be purchased separately.

Seating Information for "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA"

Seat Type

The "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA" train is all reserved seating. The train uses special carriages designed for temporary services. Since the number of seats is limited, it is 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 together with your travel companions, booking together will make it easier to secure adjacent seats.

Distinctive Seating

The seats recline, ensuring a comfortable journey even for trips of around 3.5 hours. The type of train used may vary depending on the day of operation. From the train windows, you can enjoy the changing scenery from the Kanto Plain to the mountains. At Doai Station, you can experience the unique atmosphere of the underground platform. Since the view changes depending on the direction of travel, 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 ease of boarding and alighting is a priority. For long journeys, it's recommended to check your 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

The stairs at Doai Station are difficult to use with a wheelchair. It is recommended to consult with JR East's ticket office in advance. The availability of multi-purpose rooms and wheelchair-accessible facilities may vary depending on the train car and train set.

Enjoy Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and In-Train Gourmet Food on the "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA" Train

On the "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA" train, onboard sales service may not be available. It is recommended to purchase food and drinks at a shop in Ueno Station before boarding. You can enjoy Gunma's local cuisine in Minakami. In Echigo-Yuzawa, you can savor Hegisoba noodles and Niigata's local sake. The availability of onboard sales varies depending on the train service and season, so it is best to purchase drinks and snacks before boarding. If you eat or drink on board, please be considerate of others by avoiding foods with strong odors to ensure a pleasant experience. Dispose of empty containers and trash in the trash cans on board or at the station after disembarking.

Precautions When Riding the "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA"

The "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA" train operates only on limited days, so be sure to check the operating dates before planning your trip. All seats are reserved, so you cannot board without a reserved seat. The stairs at Doai Station have 462 steps and take about 10 minutes to climb. The stop at Doai Station is limited, so be sure to check the time. The stairs are somewhat steep, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes. 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.

Due to its popularity, reserved seats may sell out quickly. It is recommended to check the train's operating status on Ekitan or the railway company's official website before boarding.

Summary

The "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA" is a special JR East train that connects Ueno Station and Echigo-Yuzawa Station via the Joetsu Line. It offers a unique experience of visiting the underground platform of Doai Station, known as "Japan's deepest mole station." Since it operates on limited days and all seats are reserved, be sure to check the operating dates and reserve your seat in advance.

Enjoy a journey through the famous sights of the Joetsu Line on "TANIGAWADAKE MOGURA," a train that takes you to deep underground stations.

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.