JR KAIRI Train

To those who long for a leisurely excursion along the coast of the Sea of Japan, the JR KAIRI Train running from Niigata Prefecture through the Shonai region of Yamagata Prefecture is undoubtedly worthwhile. The Shonai area abounds with sacred mountains, traditional villages, agricultural fields and ocean vistas. Rock formations above crystal sapphire waters along the Sasagawa Nagare coastline and the Dewa mountains highlight this memorable adventure. Its name is derived from the kanji (Chinese characters with Japanese meaning) of “sea” and “village,” the two most prominent elements in Niigata and Yamagata Prefectures.

Launched by JR East in 2019, the JR KAIRI Train travels through Niigata City, Shibata, Nakajo, Sakamachi, Murakami, Kuwagawa, Sasagawa-nagare, Atsumi-Onsen, Tsuruoka, Amarume and the final stop, Sakata, in about three hours. The train makes a brief stop at Kuwagawa station so passengers can take photographs of the ocean view and buy souvenirs.

Train Exterior and Interior

Photo by: Alma Reyes

The train’s exterior facade reflects the gradating transition from deep orange color at the front coach to a fading shade toward white at the last coach, signifying the landscape’s seasonal changes from summer to winter. Inside, the bright orange, white, and black color theme also accents the seats, floors, ceilings, and doors. The concept emulates the orange sunset that paints the skies as the train approaches the return time at Niigata station. Imagine the magical sunset radiating over the glistening snowy fields in wintertime. 

Types of Cars

Photo by: Alma Reyes

Passengers can select from four types of coaches. The frontmost car, Car 1, consists of two-seater rows with reclining seats and incredibly spacious legroom, enough to accommodate a large suitcase. Behind the conductor’s cabin is a large common viewing area with a central table.

Car 2 is the private compartment coach that can accommodate up to four people in each cubicle. The long seats face each other and can be folded down halfway. The table in between them is ideal for sharing a meal among families or private groups. The compartments line up on the side of the train that overlooks the ocean.

The shop and event space are in Car 3. They sell special delicacies of the Niigata and Shonai regions and KAIRI brand snacks, drinks and souvenirs. A bar counter stretches from end to end, allowing you to enjoy the gorgeous views while munching on your snack.

Car 4 features a dining room with two- and four-seater options. A four-seater box with a long counter faces the expansive window directly. This car is for those who reserved the travel package in advance, which includes the seat and a set meal. Meal choices range from traditional Niigata and Yamagata dishes to Italian.

Whichever car you take, the smooth ride promises a relaxing experience through the wealth of Japan’s well-nurtured seas and mountains.