Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.
Sanriku Railway
A local railway deep-embedded in the daily life of its community, known affectionately known as "Santetsu”.
Sanriku Railway skirts the coastline along Iwate Prefecture. The line first opened in 1984 as Japan’s first third-sector railway, a public service run by a private company, in a unique feat in the industry.
The railway's only route, the Rias Line, connects the 163+ kilometer stretch between Kuji Station in the north and Sakari Station in Ofunato in the south, making it the longest third-sector railway in Japan. The scenic route offers stunning views of the rugged cliffs and diverse coastal landscapes unique to the Rias coast, making it a favorite for tourists and locals alike.
Sanriku Railway also runs special cross-over train designs with favorite characters from a number of different brands, as well as event-based trains with unique offerings inside. The railway actively promotes limited-edition collaboration products, making this regional trip all the more worth the ride.
Highlights
-
Railway line running along the Sanriku coastline in Iwate Prefecture.
-
Opened in 1984 as Japan's first third-sector railway.
-
Affectionately known as "Santetsu" by the locals.
-
Views of the Rias Coast and tranquil coastal life from the train windows.
-
Features many creative event trains and crossover designs.
Photos
-
![Undeniable charm from the tricolor-colored train cars.]()
Undeniable charm from the tricolor-colored train cars.
-
![Special design wraps to catch.]()
Special design wraps to catch.
-
![Sanriku Railway runs along the Rias coastline.]()
Sanriku Railway runs along the Rias coastline.
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
Yes, some are available in English.
Q
Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
Yes, at major stations only (Sakari Station, Kamaishi Station, Miyako Station, Kuji Station).
Q
Do I need an ID such as a passport to buy the ticket?
No, it is not necessary.
Q
Is it possible to board without a reservation?
Yes, reservations are not required (for special event trains, reservations are necessary).
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 三陸鉄道
- Stops
- Kuji Station, Rikuchu-Ube Station, Rikuchu-Noda Station, Tofugaura-Kaigan Station, Noda-Tamagawa Station, Horinai Station, Shirai-Kaigan Station, Fudai Station, Tanohata Station, Shimanokoshi Station, Iwaizumi-Omoto Station, Settai Station, Shin Taro Station, Taro Station, Sabane Station, Ichinowatari Station, Yamaguchi-Danchi Station, Miyako Station, Sokei Station, Yagisawa Miyakotandai Station, Tsugaruishi Station, Haraigawa Station, Toyomane Station, Rikuchu-Yamada Station, Orikasa Station, Iwate Funakoshi Station, Namiitakaigan Station, Kirikiri Station, Otsuchi Station, Unosumai Station, Ryoishi Station, Kamaishi Station, Heita Station, Toni Station, Yoshihama Station, Sanriku Station, Horei Station, Koishihama Station, Ryori Station, Rikuzen-Akasaki Station, Sakari Station
- Travel Time
- The shortest journey from Kuji Station to Sakari Station is 4 hours and 18 minutes.
- Train Fares
- 3,780 yen from Kuji Station to Sakari Station.
- Official Website
- Official Website (English)