Search for transportation, travel, and scenic summer and autumn limited trains in Hokkaido
Last updated 2026-09-25 — Many travel memories are fragments of movement between modes of transport. Perhaps it’s the lavender blooming outside the summer train windows; maybe it’s the curious deer by the roadside as you turn a corner while driving; or perhaps it’s the slow movement filled with warmth and...
Written by/Mook Editorials
Download the Complete Self-Guided Hokkaido guide to enjoy discounted mobile internet rates for travel in Japan (Image provided by Mook Editorials)
JR Furano Biei Slow Train
The JR Summer Furano Biei Slow Train, a summer-limited service, runs from Asahikawa through Biei to Furano. This adorable green sightseeing train features large panoramic windows, offering full views of rural landscapes, lovely flowers, and the continuous peaks of the nearby Daisetsuzan Mountain Range.
The Furano Biei Slow Train stops at popular local spots such as Biei, Miharashi, Kami-Furano, Naka-Furano, and Furano. To coincide with the flower season, it also makes additional stops at the specially added temporary “Lavender Field” station. From here, it’s just a 7-minute walk to the famously renowned Farm Tomita. Outside the vintage train carriages, Hokkaido’s short summer bursts with the vitality and vibrant colors of the earth, displayed brilliantly before your eyes.
[Info]
Japanese train name: Furano 0?犁?违恁氓澈偶/div>
Location: Between Asahikawa and Furano in central Hokkaido
Dates: Every year from June to October, running daily from mid-June to August
Website: www2.jrhokkaido.co.jp/global/chinese/index.html
In June, after the snow melts, Hokkaido’s summer arrives quickly—take a train to visit summer flower fields (Image provided by Mook Editorials)
SL Steam Locomotive NISEKO
This old-style train, manufactured in 1945 (Showa 20), creates a strong sense of nostalgia with its intentionally hung oil lamps along the window sills, a vintage-style coffee car, and staff uniforms from the past. The interior is decorated with autumn leaves and hot spring themes that complement the fall scenery outside. As the train moves along, the city fades away and the greenery deepens—you can see the forests and mountains painted with rich, layered autumn hues. On clear days, don’t miss the famous view along the route—the beautiful shape of Mount Yotei.
In recent years, some hot spring ryokan along the route have partnered with the SL Steam Locomotive NISEKO to offer onsen day trips that include station pick-up and drop-off. Comfortable hot springs plus stunning train scenery make for the perfect short autumn getaway.
[Info] Train Schedule
Japanese train name: SL Niseko
Location: Between Sapporo and Rankoshi
Dates: Every year from September to November, operating only on weekends
Website: www2.jrhokkaido.co.jp/global/chinese/index.html
Note: From Sapporo to Kutchan, all seats are reserved and require advance booking; from Kutchan to Rankoshi, seating is unreserved. Additionally, the SL Steam Locomotive NISEKO runs one round trip per day.
The black, retro-fronted SL steam locomotive takes passengers on a gentle exploration of northern Japan’s autumn (Image provided by Mook Editorials)
Besides various seasonal trains and special rolling stock that catch tourists’ attention, within the vast expanse of Hokkaido, the extensive JR network also serves as a major public transportation hub. The iOS app MOOK Self-Guided Travel Bookstore 《Complete Self-Guided Hokkaido》, published by Mook, not only provides detailed introductions to Hokkaido by region but also offers special features on trains, accommodations, and more, making it more convenient for users. Downloading the MOOK Self-Guided Travel Bookstore 《Complete Self-Guided Hokkaido》 now also grants you a 10% discount on mobile internet services for travel in Japan. For details, visit the MOOK Self-Guided Travel Bookstore at https://itunes.apple.com/tw/app/id495070783.
● Extended Reading: 《Hokkaido Ultimate Guide》 Get all four-season info of the northern land at your fingertips
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