SL Ginga: Japan's Starry Steam Train Journey

Experience JR East's unique steam locomotive with onboard planetarium through Iwate's magical landscapes. Inspired by Miyazawa Kenji's universe.

★★★★☆ 4.8/5

Train Info

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Name: SL Ginga (SL銀河)

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Route: Hanamaki to Kamaishi (Iwate Prefecture)

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Duration: 4.5 hours (full route)

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Key Stops: Hanamaki, Tono, Sumita, Kamaishi

Key Features

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Unique: Japan's first train with onboard planetarium

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Theme: Inspired by Miyazawa Kenji's literature

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Cars: Four uniquely themed carriages

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Access: Free with JR East Tohoku Area Pass

The Miyazawa Kenji Experience

SL Ginga with its distinctive starry theme and blue exterior

"The train offers a magical journey through landscapes that feel like stepping into Kenji's stories."

4 Themed Carriages

SL Ginga features four distinct cars inspired by Miyazawa Kenji's literary universe:

Car 1: Planetarium showcasing Kenji's horoscope
Car 2: Literature gallery with books and maps
Car 3: Science & agriculture exhibition
Car 4: Art gallery featuring Kenji's artwork

The train was created to revitalize the Tohoku region after the 2011 tsunami and earthquake.

The Scenic Journey

The planetarium car - Japan's first train planetarium

Must-see: Planetarium shows throughout journey
Unique: Station signs in Esperanto
Photo ops: Special stops for photography

Through Ihatov, by Miyazawa Kenji

The SL Ginga travels through landscapes that inspired Miyazawa Kenji's fictional world of Ihatov:

Rolling hills and countryside of Iwate
Traditional villages and farming landscapes
Rivers and forests from Kenji's stories

During stops, passengers can experience cultural performances including tiger dances in Kamaishi.

Onboard Experience

SL Ginga's beautiful star-themed design

Starry Interiors & Planetarium

Experience unique features throughout the train:

Planetarium: 15-minute shows with Kenji's constellations
Gallery Spaces: Exhibits on science, agriculture & art
Observation Areas: Large windows for landscape viewing
ORAHO Counter: Local Iwate snacks and souvenirs

The train's dark blue exterior features star motifs that glow at night.

Cultural Immersion

Throughout the journey, experience:

Live performances of local dances
Kenji's literature readings
Educational activities about astronomy
Local Iwate treats and crafts

Staff share stories about Kenji's connection to the landscapes you pass through.

SL Ginga making a station stop for photos

What I Loved

World's first train with onboard planetarium
Deep cultural immersion in Kenji's universe
Authentic steam locomotive experience
Free with JR East Tohoku Area Pass
Unique photo opportunities at stops
Thoughtfully designed themed interiors
Friendly and knowledgeable staff

Considerations

Limited departures (weekends only)
Requires advance reservation
Full journey takes 4.5 hours
Planetarium has limited capacity
Some stations lack accessibility features

Ride the Starry Express!

Ready for your journey through Kenji's universe?

Check Schedule & Reserve Seats

Reservations open 1 month in advance

Final Verdict

★★★★☆ 4.8/5

The SL Ginga offers a truly unique journey through literary landscapes. Combining nostalgic steam travel with modern planetarium technology and deep cultural immersion, it's a must for literature lovers and train enthusiasts exploring Tohoku.

Perfect for

Literature & astronomy enthusiasts
Steam train lovers
Cultural experience seekers
Travelers with JR East Pass

Consider if

You enjoy immersive storytelling
You appreciate heritage transportation
You want to explore rural Japan

Travel Tip: Book at least one month in advance through JR East's Eki-Net. Combine with visits to Hanamaki's Miyazawa Kenji Museum and Kamaishi's Dai-kannon Statue. The best photo spot is at Tono Station with the meganebashi bridge in the background.

*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps keep the blog running - thank you! 🙏

🏨 Book Hanamaki Hotels 🏨 Book Kamaishi Hotels 🎫 Buy JR East Pass 🚆 Reserve via Eki-Net

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Resort Shirakami: Scenic Train Journey Through Tohoku

Experience breathtaking Sea of Japan views on JR East's Joyful Train through UNESCO-listed Shirakami Mountains - Free with JR East Pass!

★★★★☆ 4.7/5

Train Info

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Name: Resort Shirakami (Aoike, Buna, Kumagera)

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Route: Aomori to Akita via Gono Line

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Duration: 5 hours (full route)

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Key Stops: Aomori, Hirosaki, Juniko, Akita

Key Features

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Views: Stunning coastal scenery of Sea of Japan

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Theme: Celebrates Shirakami-Sanchi UNESCO site

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Interior: Unique designs with observation lounges

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Onboard: Cultural performances & local treats

The Shirakami Mountains Experience

The beautiful Buna model of Resort Shirakami

"The train gives a magical journey through landscapes that feel untouched by time."

Three Unique Designs

Resort Shirakami features three distinct train designs inspired by the UNESCO World Heritage Site Shirakami-Sanchi:

Buna: Beech tree theme with warm wooden interiors
Kumagera: Black woodpecker motif featuring deep blues
Aoike: "Blue Pond" design with aquatic colors

Each train operates on a hybrid system using diesel engines and lithium-ion batteries, making it environmentally friendly.

The Scenic Journey

The scenic Gono Line route along the Sea of Japan

Must-see: Coastal views of the Sea of Japan
UNESCO Site: Shirakami-Sanchi beech forests
Photo stops: Juniko (Twelve Lakes) area

Coastal Wonders & Mountain Vistas

The Resort Shirakami connects Aomori and Akita via the picturesque Gono Line, offering some of Japan's most stunning coastal scenery. As the train winds along the Sea of Japan coast, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of:

Dramatic sea cliffs and fishing villages
The iconic Mount Iwaki ("Tsuruga Fuji")
UNESCO-listed beech forests of Shirakami-Sanchi

The train makes strategic stops at scenic locations, allowing you to explore highlights like the Juniko (Twelve Lakes) area.

Onboard Experience

The warm, woody interior of the Buna train

Comfort & Culture Combined

Step inside to discover thoughtfully designed spaces:

Observation Lounges: Panoramic windows for optimal viewing
Event Spaces: Live cultural performances during the journey
Box Seats: Private compartments with convertible beds
ORAHO Counter: Local snacks, drinks, and souvenirs

Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous Instagrammable spots throughout the train.

Local Treats & Activities

The train features charming amenities where you can enjoy:

Local Tohoku snacks and beverages
Exclusive Resort Shirakami souvenirs
Cultural performances and region-themed quizzes

During the journey, staff often host interactive activities about Tohoku culture.

Spacious box seats that convert to sleeping areas

Commemorative train ticket

Personal Experience

During my journey, I was fortunate to experience both the Buna and Kumagera trains. The box seats were particularly memorable - with convertible beds and privacy curtains, they offer a perfect retreat for introverts.

Seating Tip: For the best experience, reserve box seats in advance. If the train isn't full, you can move around to different viewing areas after departure.