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Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train
Enjoy the gentle sway of the train as you fully immerse yourself in the rich, stunning nature of Hokkaido!
The Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train offers a leisurely ride through the internationally significant wetlands of the Kushiro Marsh, registered under the Ramsar Convention. This sightseeing train provides a direct and immersive experience of Hokkaido’s rich natural beauty.
The journey takes approximately 45 minutes, running from Kushiro Station to Tōro Station. From the train’s windows, you can admire the vast green expanse of the wetlands, the meandering Kushiro River, and, if you're lucky, spot wildlife such as red-crowned cranes, Ezo deer, Steller's sea eagles, and Hokkaido foxes. The train slows down in scenic areas, and onboard announcements provide interesting information, making the journey both relaxing and informative.
Inside the train, you can purchase unique local items such as milk pudding from a nearby French restaurant, craft beer with milk called “Temptation from the Wheat-Skinned Girl,” Kushiro Mist Cider made with Hokkaido-grown beets, shishamo fish-shaped pie, and original train-themed merchandise. These special products offer a fun and memorable way to enhance your journey.
Let the gentle sway of the train guide you as you soak in the lush natural beauty of Hokkaido.
Highlights
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A sightseeing train that runs through the Kushiro Marsh.
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The one-way trip takes about 45 minutes, traveling between Kushiro Station and Tōro Station.
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Operates from late April to early October with varying schedules depending on the day, so be sure to check in advance.
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Regular cars have unreserved seating, while observation cars require reserved seats.
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On certain days in late September, the "Sunset Norokko" runs, offering a scenic ride during sunset.
Photos
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![The Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train has a green exterior, designed to blend harmoniously with the vast, natural landscape of the Kushiro Marsh.]()
The Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train has a green exterior, designed to blend harmoniously with the vast, natural landscape of the Kushiro Marsh.
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![The craft beer "Temptation from the Wheat-Skinned Girl" offers a milky and tropical flavor. You can purchase it during your ride through the onboard sales.]()
The craft beer "Temptation from the Wheat-Skinned Girl" offers a milky and tropical flavor. You can purchase it during your ride through the onboard sales.
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![For a fun keepsake, you can purchase an original sticker featuring the train as a cute character—perfect for commemorating your ride!]()
For a fun keepsake, you can purchase an original sticker featuring the train as a cute character—perfect for commemorating your ride!
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
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Do you have pamphlets in other languages? (If so, please also inform us of the supported languages)
Sorry, we don’t.
*The official website is available in English, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, and Korean.
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Is a reservation required to ride the train?
The observation cars have reserved seats. Reservations can be made starting one month before your travel date at 10:00 AM via Ekinet or at Midori no Madoguchi ticket offices. No reservation is needed for unreserved seating, but since only one car is available for this, it may get crowded. We recommend using the reserved seats.
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Are coin lockers available?
There are coin lockers in the Kushiro Station.
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Do I need an ID such as a passport to buy the ticket?
No, it is not necessary.
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Which side of the train offers better views of the wetlands?
For the best views of the marshlands, sit on the left side when traveling towards Tōro/Kawayu Onsen, and on the right side when traveling towards Kushiro.
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What is the seating arrangement in the observation cars (Cars 2-4)?
Seats A–C are box seats, with odd and even-numbered rows facing each other, accommodating up to six people. Seat E is a two-person bench seat with an adjustable backrest, allowing you to change the direction you're facing.
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- くしろ湿原ノロッコ号
- Stops
- Kushiro Station, Higashi-Kushiro Station, Kushiroshitsugen Station, Hosooka Station, Tōro Station
- Travel Time
- Approximately 45 minutes from Kushiro Station to Tōro Station
- Train Fares
- 640yen one-way between Kushiro and Tōro (plus 840yen for a reserved seat ticket)
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)