The Furano-Biei Norokko Train Is Retiring After 28 Years: What to Know Before the Last Run
If you’ve seen older travel guides mention the Furano-Biei Norokko train as a must-do summer activity, here’s an update: this is its final year. After 28 years of running along the Furano Line, JR Hokkaido has confirmed the Norokko train’s last-ever run will be on September 23, 2026.
What’s Actually Happening
- Final operating season: June 6 – September 23, 2026
- Final run: September 23, 2026 (a national holiday in Japan)
- Route: Asahikawa Station ↔ Furano Station, via Biei
- Why it’s ending: According to JR Hokkaido, the locomotive that pulls the train is aging, and replacement parts for repairs are no longer being manufactured — not a decision about demand or popularity
- What replaces it: JR Hokkaido has stated a new sightseeing train is planned to begin service from June 2027, though details on that successor haven’t been announced yet
This is a genuinely permanent retirement, not a normal seasonal pause — the Norokko train has always run summer-only (roughly June through September each year), but this year there is no “next summer” for it.
Should You Try to Ride It Before September 23?
If you’re going to be in Asahikawa, Biei, or Furano before the final run, and you’ve always wanted to ride an open-window sightseeing train through Hokkaido’s summer countryside, this is genuinely a last chance — not marketing hype. JR Hokkaido has confirmed farewell send-off events are planned at stations along the route on the final day itself.
Practical notes:
- Check JR Hokkaido’s official site or a Japan rail booking service for the current timetable and reserved-seat availability before you travel — demand for the final season is likely to be higher than usual
- This is a seasonal, reservation-recommended train, not a regular commuter service — don’t assume you can just show up
What This Doesn’t Change
The Furano Line itself (the regular JR train between Asahikawa and Furano via Biei) continues to run as normal — it’s specifically the Norokko sightseeing service that’s ending. If you’re just looking for a way to get between Asahikawa, Biei, and Furano without a car, see our transport comparison guide.