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Get ready to step back in time as Oigawa Railway proudly presents our Limited Themed Train – the “Blue Train Express.”
From June 7th to July 21st, 2025, on Saturdays, Sundays, and Bank Holidays, our ED31 4 electric locomotive will lead these special express trains, donning the iconic “Blue Train” livery.
The “Blue Train” holds a cherished place in Japan’s railway history and in the hearts of rail enthusiasts. These “night specials” once symbolized the vital connection between Japan’s rural communities and its bustling capital. Travel on our “Blue Train Express” to glimpse the rich lore of Japanese railways from the 1970s, all while immersing yourself in the serene countryside scenery of the Oigawa River Basin.
Highlights of Your Journey:
The Blue Train Leads the Way!
Witness our beautifully re-liveried ED31 4 electric locomotive proudly pulling the consist from the “country” end. It’s a rare chance to see this engine take the lead!
Relive the Quintessential Long-Distance Train Experience!
For a truly immersive journey into 1970s Japanese rail travel, we highly recommend riding all six trains consecutively. It’s an authentic way to experience what long-distance rail travel was like in that era.
Exclusive Collectibles!
Our friendly onboard catering staff will present you with special collectible memento cards as a complimentary gift, ensuring you have a unique keepsake to remember your “Blue Train Express” adventure.
Days of Operation:
The “Blue Train Express” trains will run exclusively on Saturdays, Sundays, and Bank Holidays from June 7th to July 21st, 2025.
Please refer to the calendar below:
Timetable
Northbound (Kanaya → Kawane-Onsen Sasamado
| Train No. | 1001 | 101 | 103 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kanaya | 10:00 Dep | 12:00 Dep | 15:00 Dep |
| Shin-Kanaya | 10:05 Arr 10:10 Dep |
12:05 Arr 12:11 Dep |
15:05 Arr 15:11 Dep |
| ⇂ | ⇂ | ⇂ | |
| Ieyama | 10:38 Arr 10:42 Dep |
12:39 Arr 12:54 Dep |
15:39 Arr 15:43 Dep |
| ⇂ | ⇂ | ⇂ | |
| Kawane-Onsen Sasamado | 10:49 Arr | 13:01 Arr | 15:51 Arr |
※ Passengers may remain on board while at Kawane-Onsen Sasamado Station while the train is being prepared for the return leg
Southbound (Kawane-Onsen Sasamado → Kanaya)
| Train No. | 1002 | 102 | 812 | 104 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kawane-Onsen Sasamado | 11:00 Dep | 13:17 Dep | ・・ | 15:00 Dep |
| ⇂ | ⇂ | ・・ | ⇂ | |
| Ieyama | 11:07 Arr 11:12 Dep |
13:24 Arr 13:28 Dep |
・・ | 16:12 Arr 16:16 Dep |
| ⇂ | ⇂ | ・・ | ⇂ | |
| Shin-Kanaya | 11:40 Arr 11:44 Dep |
13:58 Arr→14:45 Dep | 16:43 Arr | |
| Kanaya | 11:50 Arr | ・・ | 14:50 Arr | ・・ |
※ Passengers may remain on board at Kanaya station while the train is being prepared for the following leg. The same applies to the stop at Shin-Kanaya station between trains 102 and 812
Tickets and Seating:
To travel on our “Blue Train Express,” an additional express charge is required:
・Adults: 1,500 JPY per train
・Children: 750 JPY per train
This charge is in addition to the standard base travel fare. Please note that there are no seat assignments on these services.
Please purchase relevant tickets at station ticket offices or from the train conductor on your day of travel.
Consist
← Senzu Kanaya →
[ED31 4]-[C Arriage]-[C Arriage]-[Electric Loco]
※ The consist may be altered without prior notice.
On-Board Services:
Enhance your journey with our convenient on-board sales, available on all “Blue Train Express” services. Our trolley sales offer a variety of exclusive ED31 4 merchandise and delicious bento lunch boxes, perfect for enjoying as you travel.
“Blue Trains” in Japanese Railway Culture:
The legendary long-distance sleeper express trains, operated by the Japanese National Railways (JNR), were famously characterized by their distinctive blue and cream-white livery, earning them the affectionate nickname “Blue Trains.” In an era when air travel was a luxury, these magnificent trains served as the primary mode of long-distance transportation, connecting regional towns directly to Tokyo. They became powerful symbols of the aspirations of the Japanese people towards the capital and were integral to significant life events, such as students heading to Tokyo for job hunting. The last “Blue Train” on the JR network retired in 2015, marking the end of a truly iconic era.
At Oigawa Railway, our core principle is to preserve and share these invaluable snippets of Japanese railway history. While our ED31 4 is not one of the exact locomotives that pulled the original “Blue Trains,” we strongly believe that its distinguished livery will play a crucial role in keeping the prestigious legacy of these legendary trains alive for coming generations of rail enthusiasts to discover and cherish.
Hello everyone, and a warm welcome to the brand new “News & Stories” section of the Oigawa Railway English website!
We are absolutely thrilled to launch this new space, designed specifically to keep our international visitors and railway enthusiasts better informed and more connected with everything happening at Oigawa Railway.
Here, you can look forward to regular updates on a variety of topics, including:
-
Service Announcements:
Important information about our train operations, including any temporary service changes or timetable amendments. -
Upcoming Events:
Be the first to know about special events, themed trains, and unique experiences happening along our railway! -
Seasonal Train Information:
Discover details on our beloved seasonal trains, such as the iconic “Day Out With Thomas” events, autumn foliage trains, and more. -
Travel Tips & Local Highlights:
We’ll also share helpful advice for planning your trip and introduce you to the charming attractions and natural beauty of the Oigawa River Basin.
Our goal is to make your visit planning easier and your experience with Oigawa Railway even more enjoyable. We believe this new section will be a wonderful resource for anyone looking to explore the magic of our steam locomotives, the stunning scenery, and the unique culture of our area.
We invite you to check back regularly for the latest updates. We look forward to sharing many exciting stories with you!
Thank you for your continued support, and we hope to welcome you aboard soon!
The Oigawa Railway International Team
A serene highlight on the Ikawa Line: Oku-Oi Kojo ‘Laketop’ Station. Experience the tranquil beauty of a station floating above the water.
Witness history in motion: Our iconic steam locomotive gracefully steams through the vibrant, lush green tea plantations of the Oigawa region. A truly picturesque journey!