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JR Hokkaido Red Star Tourist Train Unveils Luxury Scenic Journeys Through Drift Ice and Wildlife Landscapes

Japan is preparing to introduce a major new scenic rail experience as JR Hokkaido advances plans for its Red Star tourist train, a luxury sightseeing service designed to showcase Hokkaido’s winter scenery, wetlands, mountains and regional communities. The Red Star is scheduled to begin operating in February 2027 between Sapporo and Abashiri before moving to

Japan’s Kushiro Wetland Norokko Train Ends in October 2026 After Iconic Hokkaido Nature Journeys

Martina / August 17, 2026

Japan’s celebrated Kushiro Wetland Norokko Train is approaching the end of its current operations, giving travellers a final opportunity to experience one of eastern Hokkaido’s most distinctive nature-focused railway journeys. JR Hokkaido has confirmed that regular 2026 operations between Kushiro and Toro will continue on selected dates until October 4. A two-day farewell programme will