Resort Shirakami

A sightseeing train that runs from Akita Station to Hirosaki Station and Aomori Station via the JR Gonō Line. From the windows, passengers can enjoy spectacular views of Shirakami-Sanchi, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, and the Sea of Japan. Since its debut in 1997, it has continued to captivate many visitors.

Three train sets are in service: Buna, Aoike, and Kumagera. The green Buna train is inspired by the primeval beech forests of Shirakami-Sanchi. As its name suggests, the blue Aoike train evokes the mystical cobalt-blue Aoike Pond. The red Kumagera train symbolizes the black woodpecker that lives in Shirakami-Sanchi and the sunset over the Gonō Line, and each train enhances the travel experience with its own distinct design and interior.

On board, you can enjoy experiences such as the Fureai Market, where local residents sell regional specialties, performances by kataribe storytellers sharing traditional Tsugaru folk tales in the Tsugaru dialect, and live Tsugaru shamisen music, offering a chance to experience the culture and people along the line.

There is also the Gonō Line mobile ordering service, Gonotabi (Uketorip), which lets you reserve and pay in advance for items from popular shops along the route and pick them up on the station platform on the day of your ride.