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

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR East Limited Express "TSUGARU," which connects Akita Station and Aomori 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 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 Limited Express "TSUGARU" is a JR East train that connects Akita Station and Aomori Station via the Ou Main Line. The train's name comes from "Tsugaru," which refers to the western part of Aomori Prefecture. It connects with the Akita Shinkansen and Tohoku Shinkansen, playing a vital role in linking major cities in northern Tohoku. The train uses E751 series electric trains, which are characterized by their calm interiors. 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's a good idea to check the departure information display for the correct train name and destination before boarding.

What is the "TSUGARU"?

The Limited Express "TSUGARU" is a JR East train named after the Tsugaru region. The Ou Main Line is a major railway line in Tohoku, running from Fukushima Station through Yamagata and Akita to Aomori Station. The Tsugaru region is nationally known for its apple production and forms a cultural sphere centered around Hirosaki. The E751 series train cars were formerly used for the Limited Express "Super Hatsukari". At Shin-Aomori Station, the train schedule is designed to connect with the Tohoku Shinkansen.

Train features and popular points

The appeal of the Limited Express "TSUGARU" lies in its convenience, connecting major cities in northern Tohoku without transfers. 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 flower rafts that fill the moat are a famous sight. The Aomori Nebuta Festival is a representative summer festival of Tohoku, where large lanterns parade through the streets. The Shirakami Mountains are a region with a primeval beech forest that is registered as a World Natural Heritage site. Odate is known as the birthplace of kiritanpo and the Akita dog. Tsugaru is the top producer of apples in Japan, and apple orchards stretch out from the train window. Checking the stations served and travel time before boarding will make it easier to plan an itinerary that includes stops along the way. The scenery outside the train window changes greatly depending on the season and time of day, so it's recommended to choose different times for your outbound and return journeys. Hirosaki is also known as a town dotted with retro Western-style buildings, making it a great place to stroll around. Aomori Prefecture accounts for more than half of Japan's apple production.

"TSUGARU" Timetable

*The "TSUGARU" operates several round trips per day.

Downbound (towards Aomori Station) timetable

Upbound (towards Akita Station) Timetable

The "TSUGARU" operates several round trips per day. 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. There are more trains during the morning and evening rush hours, while the intervals between trains may be longer during the daytime. If you have connecting trains or buses, it's advisable to choose connections that allow ample time before your arrival.

• Limited Express Fares, Tickets, and Timetable - Ekitan

Notes on Operating Days and Service Suspensions

The "TSUGARU" operates daily throughout the year. During winter, delays or service suspensions may occur due to snow and strong winds. The train may be crowded during the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival and Nebuta Festival.

"TSUGARU" Operating Sections

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, you can see Nebuta floats at 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. The Shirakami Mountains can be accessed by transferring to the Gono Line from Higashi-Noshiro Station. Since getting to nearby tourist spots mainly involves buses and walking, it is a good idea to check local transportation options in advance. There are often tourist information centers around the stations where you can obtain maps and brochures. The Gono Line is known as a scenic route that runs along the coastline of the Sea of Japan. Tsugaru shamisen is a traditional performing art that originated in the Tsugaru region, and there are facilities in Hirosaki and Aomori where you can hear performances.

"TSUGARU" Stations Served

Main Stations Served

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

*Stations served may vary depending on the train.

"TSUGARU" Fares

Representative Section Fares

Breakdown of Basic Fare and Limited Express Surcharge

The fare for the Limited Express "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 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; you must purchase both.

Shinkansen Transfers

The "TSUGARU" connects to the Akita Shinkansen at Akita Station and to the Tohoku Shinkansen at Shin-Aomori Station. Transfer discounts between Shinkansen and conventional limited express trains were discontinued for travel from March 16, 2024. When transferring, separate limited express surcharges are required for both the Shinkansen and the "TSUGARU". Transfer times vary depending on the train, so please check in advance using services like Ekitan (a train route planning website).

How to Buy "TSUGARU" Tickets

Eki-net (Online 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 limited express tickets at the station's reserved seat ticket machines or at the Midori-no-madoguchi (ticket office). If you wish to use an unreserved seat, you only need to purchase a basic fare ticket and an unreserved limited express ticket. 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 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 and train travel in the Hirosaki/Aomori area.

For International Tourists

The "TSUGARU" is operated by JR East, 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 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.

Is a Physical Ticket Required?

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 IC Cards or Credit Card Touch Payments Be Used?

Suica can be used on some sections around Aomori and Akita. However, most of the Ou Main Line is 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 their service area.

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

"TSUGARU" Seating Information

Seat Types

The "TSUGARU" is operated using E751 series trains and consists of Ordinary Car Reserved 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.

Seating Features

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 train window, running through snowy landscapes, is also a highlight. The view from the window changes depending on the direction and position of the seat, so it's a good idea to check this 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 the seat location in advance and make a reservation for a more comfortable experience.

Luggage Storage Area

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

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.

 

 

Bento Boxes and Onboard Dining on the "TSUGARU"

On the "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. Odate is known as the birthplace of kiritanpo. 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 prepare in advance if you are traveling early in the morning or late at night. Hirosaki apple pie is sold at many shops in the city, and you can enjoy comparing different kinds. When eating or drinking on the train, 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 the train or at the station after disembarking.

Points to Note When Riding the "TSUGARU"

If you use the unreserved seats on the "TSUGARU" train, you may not be able to find a seat during peak hours. In winter, delays or 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. Checking the connection time with the Shinkansen will make it easier to plan your itinerary. Tsugaru and Aomori experience heavy snowfall in winter, so warm clothing is necessary. Before boarding, be sure to 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, if you plan to eat, be sure to prepare before boarding. Checking the train operating status on a site like Ekitan before boarding will help you calmly deal with delays or cancellations.

Summary

The Limited Express "TSUGARU" is a JR East train connecting Akita Station and Aomori Station via the Ou Main Line. It offers scenic views of Mount Iwaki from its windows and serves as a convenient link to attractions in northern Tohoku, such as Hirosaki Castle and the Aomori Nebuta Festival. Its timetable is designed to connect with the Shinkansen bullet train, making it easily accessible from the Tokyo metropolitan area.

Enjoy your trip through northern Tohoku aboard the "TSUGARU," which offers views of 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.