JR Hokkaido Will Launch A New Tourism Train Service Next Year

Illustration of the tour train fleet operated by JR Hokkaido. (Wikimedia Commons/MaedaAkihiko)

JAKARTA - Hokkaido Railway Co. announced that it will launch two new tourist train services on Japan's northernmost main island, Hokkaido, starting in 2027.

"Red Star" and "Blue Star" services were originally scheduled for spring 2026, but the launch was delayed due to carriage repairs that took longer than expected, said JR Hokkaido, quoted from Kyodo News September 5.

The Red Star is scheduled to make its debut in February 2027 to coincide with the floating ice season along the Sea of Okhotsk. This round-trip service will last for two days between JR Sapporo and Abashiri stations.

From April to July, this train will operate between JR Kushiro and Shiretoko Shari stations.

Meanwhile, the Blue Star will operate from June to September, especially during the lavender bloom season, between JR waykawa and Biei stations, and JR Furano Stations.

From January to March 2028, this train will serve round-trip trips twice a day between JR Abashiri and Shiretoko Shari Stations.

The diesel-powered train was designed by industry designer Eiji Mitooka, who also designed Kyushu Railway's "Seven Stars in Kyushu" luxury bedroom.

The Red Star will also be equipped with a traditional tatami-las tea drinking room, where passengers must take off their shoes.