Business · Companies · 1 day ago
Kushiro wetland sightseeing train makes its final run
JR Hokkaido’s Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train made its final run on Saturday through the Kushiro wetland in eastern Hokkaido, Japan.
The train has operated since 1989 and is being retired because its carriages are aging.
It ran slowly between Kushiro and Toro stations, giving passengers views of the wetland and its wildlife through large windows.
The train operated from spring to autumn and became a key attraction on the Senmo Line, which has relatively few passengers and is difficult to maintain on its own.
Reserved seats for the final trip sold out on the day they went on sale.
JR Hokkaido plans a photo session next Saturday so people can enjoy the train before it is gone.
The final trip marks the end of the train’s 37-year history.
JR Hokkaido’s Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train made its final run through the Kushiro wetland on Saturday.
The sightseeing train is ending its 37-year history because of aging rolling stock.
It has operated since 1989 between Kushiro and Toro stations in eastern Hokkaido.
The train’s slow pace and observation cars let passengers view the wetland and wildlife.
A photo session is planned for next Saturday, and reserved-seat tickets for the final run sold out on the day they went on sale.
- Who
- JR Hokkaido operated the Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train.
- What
- The sightseeing train made its final run through the Kushiro wetland.
- When
- Saturday; the article was published on Oct. 10, 2026.
- Where
- Between Kushiro and Toro stations in eastern Hokkaido, Japan.
- Why
- The train is ending its 37-year history because of aging rolling stock.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
I was involved in designing this train about 30 years ago, but I never imagined I would witness a moment like this.
Have a good trip.
The Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train began operating.
The train made its final run through the Kushiro wetland.
JR Hokkaido plans a photo session so people can enjoy the train until the end.
- Operating history
- 37 years
- Route
- Kushiro to Toro stations
- First year of operation
- 1989
- Reason for ending service
- Aging rolling stock
- Final-run tickets
- Reserved-seat tickets sold out on the day they went on sale.
Sources
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