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

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR East Limited Express "WAKASHIO" connecting Tokyo Station and Awa-Kamogawa 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 to the Sotobo coastline and Kamogawa, 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 "WAKASHIO" is a JR East Limited Express train connecting Tokyo Station and Awa-Kamogawa Station via the JR Keiyo Line and JR Sotobo Line. It is used as an access train to the Sotobo area on the eastern side of the Boso Peninsula. The train uses E257 series electric trains, which are characterized by their calm interior. All seats are reserved, so advance seat reservations are required to board. It is compatible with ticketless Limited Express tickets via "Eki-net," making it easy to use. From the train windows, you can enjoy the coastline of Sotobo facing the Pacific Ocean. 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 the "WAKASHIO"?

"WAKASHIO" is a JR East Limited Express train named after the Sotobo Sea. The JR Sotobo Line runs from Chiba Station along the eastern coast of the Boso Peninsula to Awa-Kamogawa Station. "WAKASHIO" runs directly from Tokyo Station to the Sotobo Line via the JR Keiyo Line. It is the counterpart to the "Sazanami," which heads towards the Uchibo area. The E257 series is a modified version of a train that previously operated as a Limited Express on the Chuo Main Line.

Train Features and Popular Points

The appeal of the "WAKASHIO" lies in its direct access from central Tokyo to the Sotobo area without transfers. Since all seats are reserved, you can travel comfortably with your seat secured. Kamogawa Sea World is an aquarium known for its killer whale shows. Katsuura Morning Market is considered one of Japan's three major morning markets. The Sotobo coastline offers magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean. Kujukuri Beach is a sandy beach stretching for approximately 60 kilometers. Around Kaihin-Makuhari Station, there are large commercial facilities and stadiums. Using the "Eki-net" ticketless Limited Express ticket allows you to board without a paper ticket. Checking the stations served and travel time before boarding makes it easier to plan an itinerary that includes stops along the way. The scenery outside the window changes greatly depending on the season, so choosing the time of year to suit your purpose is recommended. The Sotobo area has numerous surfing spots. Onjuku is a seaside town known for the song "Tsuki no Sabaku".

"WAKASHIO" Timetable

*The "WAKASHIO" operates more than ten round trips per day.

Downbound (towards Awa-Kamogawa Station) Timetable

Upbound (towards Tokyo Station) Timetable

The "WAKASHIO" operates more than ten round trips a 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 Price, Ticket and Timetable - Ekitan

Important Information Regarding Operating Days and Days When the Service is Suspended.

The "WAKASHIO" operates daily throughout the year. It may be crowded during morning and evening rush hours due to commuter use. Extra trains may be added during peak travel seasons.

"WAKASHIO" Operating Section

Main Operating Sections

• Tokyo Station to Soga Station (JR Keiyo Line)
• Soga Station to Ohara Station (JR Sotobo Line)
• Ohara Station to Awa-Kamogawa Station (JR Sotobo Line)

Awa-Kamogawa Station is the gateway to the Kamogawa area. Kamogawa Sea World is nationally known for its killer whale shows. Katsuura Morning Market has a history of over 400 years. Katsuura's Tantanmen is a well-known local delicacy. Kujukuri Beach is a popular beach for surfing and swimming. Mobara is a town known for its Tanabata Festival. There are large commercial facilities and stadiums around Kaihin-Makuhari. Since getting to nearby tourist spots mainly involves buses and walking, it's a good idea to check local transportation options in advance. There are often tourist information centers around the station where you can get maps and brochures. For lines with limited service, it's reassuring to check the return train and bus schedules as well. From Ohara, you can transfer to the Isumi Railway to head to the rural areas of Boso.

"WAKASHIO" Stations Served

Main Stations Served

• Tokyo Station
• Kaihin-Makuhari Station
• Soga Station
• Oami Station
• Mobara Station
• Ohara Station
• Katsuura Station
• Awa-Kamogawa Station

*Stations served may vary depending on the service.

"WAKASHIO" Fares

Representative Section Fares

Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Limited Express Surcharge

The fare for the "WAKASHIO" is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the Limited Express surcharge. Since all seats are reserved, the Limited Express surcharge is the Reserved Seat Limited Express surcharge. Discounts may be available if you purchase a ticketless Limited Express ticket through "Eki-net". When purchasing tickets, make sure you have both the basic fare ticket and the reserved seat ticket. 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, as you must purchase both.

Difference from the "Sazanami"

Two Limited Express trains operate on the Boso Peninsula: the "WAKASHIO" and the "Sazanami." The "WAKASHIO" runs along the JR Sotobo Line, traversing the eastern side of the Boso Peninsula. The "Sazanami" runs along the JR Uchibo Line, traversing the western side of the Boso Peninsula. Choose the train that best suits your destination.

How to Buy Tickets for the "WAKASHIO"

Eki-net (Internet Reservation)

JR East's online reservation service, "Eki-net," allows you to purchase ticketless Limited Express tickets 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, section, 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 booking are subject to certain conditions and fees.

Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and Ticket Offices

You can purchase Reserved Seat Limited Express tickets at ticket vending machines and ticket offices at stations. Since all seats are reserved, you cannot board the train without securing a seat. 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 Agencies

Major travel agencies offer travel packages that combine accommodation in the Kamogawa area with train travel.

How to Buy for Foreign Tourists

The "WAKASHIO" 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 reserved seat ticket. Some station ticket offices 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?

If you use the ticketless Limited Express ticket service "Eki-net," you do not need to pick up a paper ticket. If you purchase your ticket at a designated seat ticket machine or at a Midori-no-Madoguchi, you will need to pick up a paper Limited Express ticket before boarding. If you pick up a paper ticket, it is 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?

Since the operating section is within the Suica area, you can use a transportation IC card for the basic fare portion. By combining a ticketless Limited Express ticket from "Eki-net" with Suica, you can board without a paper ticket. Transportation IC cards can sometimes be used across regions due to the nationwide interoperability service. However, the usable area is determined by each railway company, so be sure to check in advance whether your boarding section is within their area.

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

*Please note that you cannot ride the Limited Express train with just an IC card. Limited Express surcharges and reserved seat tickets must be purchased separately.

"WAKASHIO" Seating Information

Seat Types

The "WAKASHIO" is operated using E257 series trains and consists entirely of reserved ordinary cars. 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 E257 series is a Limited Express train equipped with reclining seats. Each seat has a table and a drink holder. Depending on the train set, each seat may have a power outlet. From seats on the ocean side, you can enjoy views of the Sotobo coastline. 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 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 your seat location in advance and make a reservation for a more comfortable experience.

Large Luggage Storage

Luggage storage areas may be provided within the train set.

Barrier-Free Facilities

Wheelchair-accessible seating is available on 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.

Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and In-Train Dining on the "WAKASHIO"

There is no in-car sales service on the "WAKASHIO". It is recommended to purchase drinks and snacks at a shop in Tokyo Station before boarding. Seafood rice bowls made with fresh seafood are a specialty of the Sotobo area. Tantanmen noodles in Katsuura are a well-known local delicacy. Since station shops may have limited operating hours, 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 in the trash cans at the station after disembarking.

Points to Note When Riding the "WAKASHIO"

The "WAKASHIO" has all reserved seats, so you cannot board without a reserved seat. The operating section is different from the "Sazanami," so be sure to check which train you are taking. It may be crowded during the morning and evening rush hours due to commuters. Reserved seats may fill up quickly during peak travel seasons. The JR Keiyo Line platform at Tokyo Station is far from other lines, so transfers can take time. The station and trains are crowded during peak seasons, so be sure to allow plenty of time. Before boarding, 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.

Since there is no onboard service, please prepare drinks and snacks before boarding. Before boarding, please check the train schedule on Ekitan or the railway company's official website.

Summary

The "WAKASHIO" is a JR East Limited Express train connecting Tokyo Station and Awa-Kamogawa Station. All seats are reserved, and it provides direct access from central Tokyo to the Sotobo area. It's a convenient train for trips to attractions in the Sotobo area, such as Kamogawa Sea World or the Katsuura Morning Market.

Enjoy your trip to Sotobo aboard the "WAKASHIO," where you can feel the sea breeze of the Pacific Ocean.

Ekitan Travel Media Editorial Department

The Ekitan Travel Media editorial team provides information on transportation in Japan, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), conventional lines, 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.