The Tadami Line is a local railway connecting Uonuma City in Niigata Prefecture and Aizuwakamatsu City in Fukushima Prefecture. Running through scenic landscapes shaped by rivers and mountains, the views from the train windows are filled with the changing beauty of the seasons.

In spring, the contrast of fresh greenery, lingering snow, and mountain cherry blossoms creates a stunning scene. In summer, fields and forests are covered in vibrant green. In autumn, the beauty of the gorge and the vivid colors of beech forests can be enjoyed. And in winter, the train runs powerfully through one of Japan’s heaviest snowfall regions. There are many scenic viewpoints along the line that captivate photography enthusiasts.

Shortly after departing from Koide Station and crossing the Uono River, you can see Mount Gongendo to the right and, behind you, the majestic peaks of the Echigo Sanzan. In autumn, the surrounding rice paddies shimmer in gold, adding yet another beautiful scene to the journey. Winter is equally special, when the rural satoyama landscape is transformed into a scene of pure white. Beyond the train windows, Japan’s harsh yet beautiful winter landscape unfolds, transporting you to another world.

Echigo TOKImeki Railway features two distinct lines, offering views of the mountains and coastline of the Joetsu region. Operating on both lines, the Echigo TOKImeki Resort Setsugekka is a resort train that allows you to enjoy the beautiful mountain and coastal scenery, along with the flavors of Niigata, all in a single journey.

It has a vermilion-and-silver exterior, designed to harmonize with Japan’s timeless landscapes, and its luxurious interior featuring a variety of seating options are all made in Niigata.

The views from its panoramic windows, among the largest in Japan, are well worth seeing. The meals, which vary depending on the service, are all crafted using the bounty of the local landscape and are prepared by renowned restaurants along the line. With a focus on seasonal ingredients, the menu changes throughout the year, making you want to return again and again. Another highlight of the journey is the gracious hospitality of the attendants. They make your journey feel even more special.

Fitting for Niigata, renowned for both its rice and sake, the Koshino Shu*Kura is a sightseeing train themed around Japanese sake. On board, you can enjoy locally brewed sake and regional snacks nurtured by Niigata’s climate, while immersing yourself in the region’s rich sake culture.

On board this sake-themed train, guests are welcomed with a complimentary glass of Niigata’s renowned sake, and can also enjoy tastings of carefully selected premium labels.The train also features standing tables inspired by sake barrels, where you can enjoy fine sake while taking in the views through the large windows for a truly special moment.

The first car of the three-car train is reserved for passengers on meal-inclusive plans, where dishes that go well with sake and are made with local ingredients are served as a bento box.
Be sure to also try the carefully curated menu items available at the service counter in the second car.

The seasonal SL Banetsu Monogatari runs along the Banetsu West Line, often referred to as the “Railway of Forests, Water, and Romance.” Operating mainly on weekends from spring through autumn, it runs along the Agano River as the colors of the countryside shift with the seasons.

Pulling the passenger cars with a powerful whistle is the C57 steam locomotive, affectionately nicknamed “The Lady” for its graceful appearance. The classic and beautifully designed passenger cars evoke a sense of nostalgia, with interiors featuring warm wood accents and deep crimson velour seats.

The observation room, with its expansive windows and open feel, offers not only panoramic views of the surrounding landscape but also the rare chance to see the steam locomotive in action up close. During scheduled stops along the way, watching the steam locomotive take on coal and water offers a glimpse into the era when railways supported local communities.

Kairi is a resort train that operates between Niigata Station and destinations along the Sea of Japan coast in Yamagata Prefecture. The seasonal beauty of the Sea of Japan, unfolding beyond the train’s large windows, is truly stunning and captivates all who see it. In particular, Sasagawa Nagare, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic rock formations shaped by relentless waves, is the highlight of the journey.

The extended stops and reduced speed through scenic areas are thoughtful touches that allow passengers to fully appreciate the views.Complementing the scenery, the exquisite cuisine features a special menu showcasing the very best of Niigata.

With the meal-inclusive plan, you can enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine from a long-established ryotei restaurant, as well as Italian dishes created by a renowned chef. You can also reserve a special onboard-exclusive bento, both of which highlight seasonal local ingredients and reflect the distinctive character of the region.