Japan’s popular sleeper train “Hokutosei” to be discontinued in March 2015

▲Hokutosei train. (Photo / from JR East Japan website)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

The sleeper train “Hokutosei,” connecting Ueno in Japan with Sapporo, is set to be discontinued in March 2015. According to a report by Japan’s Asahi Shimbun, the Hokutosei, which has been in operation since 1988, will be retired in March 2015 due to the aging of the train cars and the upcoming opening of the Hokkaido Shinkansen.

For many railway enthusiasts and travelers to Japan, the sleeper train “Hokutosei” is not unfamiliar. Because of its blue livery, it is also known as the “Blue Train.” However, with the Hokkaido Shinkansen now in the trial operation phase, and to accommodate the new high-speed line, the voltage in the Seikan Tunnel connecting Hokkaido and Honshu will be changed, making it impossible for the sleeper train to operate. In addition, due to the aging condition of the Hokutosei, JR East Japan has decided to retire the train.

With the Hokutosei nearing retirement, many Japanese are expressing their reluctance to see it go. For many people in Taiwan, the Hokutosei was their first experience of an overnight train ride and is also a must-visit train for many railway fans. For those who have yet to ride it, there is still some time before its retirement in March 2015—make sure to seize this final opportunity.