JR Hokkaido is making significant changes to its sightseeing train service, announcing on March 19, 2025, that the start date for its new luxury trains, “Akai Hoshi” (Red Star) and “Aoi Hoshi” (Blue Star), will be postponed.
The company also revealed that the operation of its popular “Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko-go” and “Furano Biei Norokko-go,” initially set to end in the fiscal year 2025, will now continue until the fiscal year 2026. This extension comes as a temporary solution while the new trains undergo necessary modifications.
The “Akai Hoshi” and “Aoi Hoshi” are set to replace older rolling stock, specifically remodeled Kiha 143 series diesel cars. However, inspections indicated that these cars, which have been in service for over 40 years, show more extensive corrosion and deformation than was previously expected. The need for more thorough repairs has necessitated the delay in their introduction.
The modifications for these new sightseeing trains are aimed at providing a luxurious and high-quality experience that exceeds typical renovations. Officials determined that the extended time required to ensure the trains meet these quality standards warranted rescheduling the operation start date.
To the relief of local communities relying on train tourism, the operations for the “Norokko-go” will continue with existing vehicles into fiscal 2026, with certain necessary measures implemented to ensure safety and passenger comfort. However, it has been noted that both the locomotive and passenger cars for the “Norokko-go” are aging significantly, posing challenges for future operations. The locomotive is over 45 years old, and the passenger cars exceed 40 years, which raises concerns regarding the availability of production parts and the feasibility of ongoing service.
In a statement about the extensions, Yoshishige Sato, mayor of Teshikaga Town, commented, “The fact that the operation deadline is extended by one year is great news for our local community. The Norokko-go is an appropriate train for the Kushiro Wetlands, and it continues to attract attention for its significance in local tourism.” This sentiment was echoed by other local leaders as they emphasize the importance of the train as a draw for visitors.
JR Hokkaido plans to announce the comprehensive operating schedule for both the existing “Norokko-go” and the soon-to-debut “Akai Hoshi” and “Aoi Hoshi” once finalized. The new luxury trains were initially expected to commence operations in the spring of 2026, but due to circumstances, this timeline is currently under review.
As the changes unfold, JR Hokkaido is working closely with local municipalities to ensure that the transition respects community needs and supports regional tourism, vital for economic recovery in the area. The company’s proactive steps reflect a commitment to both enhancing the travel experience and maintaining livelihood through train tourism.
In summary, the adjustment in the timeline for the “Akai Hoshi” and “Aoi Hoshi” trains, alongside the continued operation of the “Norokko-go,” marks a strategic response by JR Hokkaido to the challenges posed by aging infrastructure and manufacturing delays. This decision not only secures jobs and tourism potential but also reflects a broader strategy to revitalize train tourism in Hokkaido, positioning it for a promising future.
AloJapan.com