VOL.215 MAY 2026
[SPRING SPECIAL ISSUE] ENJOYING JAPAN’S SPRING BY LOCAL TRAINS Exploring Spectacular Seascapes and a World Heritage Site Along the Gono Line

A journey through breathtaking scenery on the Gono Line aboard the Resort Shirakami sightseeing train.
Photo: Akita Branch Office, East Japan Railway Company

Running 147.2 km between Higashi-Noshiro Station in Akita Prefecture and Kawabe Station in Aomori Prefecture, the Gono Line is widely regarded as one of Japan’s most scenic railway routes. From the train windows, passengers are treated to dramatic coastal views and the vibrant spring greenery of Shirakami-Sanchi, which was designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 1993. (See “The Forests of Shirakami-Sanchi, Japan’s First World Natural Heritage Site,” in HIGHLIGHTING Japan May 2024 issue). This article introduces the highlights of the Gono Line, where travelers can fully experience the rich natural beauty of northern Tohoku as spring breathes new life into the landscape.

Running along the Sea of Japan at the northern tip of Honshu, the Gono Line has been cherished by local communities since its full opening in 1936. Since 1997, the sightseeing train Resort Shirakami has been in operation, attracting visitors from Japan and abroad who seek breathtaking scenery and an unforgettable travel experience.

HATAKEYAMA Junya of the Akita Branch Office, East Japan Railway Company, says, “Riding the Gono Line itself is a highlight of the journey. From the changing views of the Sea of Japan to Shirakami-Sanchi, the line captures the essence of northern Tohoku’s charm.”

Boarding the train at Higashi-Noshiro Station, the starting point on the Akita side, passengers travel north for about 40 minutes. After passing Akita-Shirakami Station, the Sea of Japan comes into view on the left. From here, the train runs along the coastline for roughly 80 km.

One must-visit spot along the Gono Line is Juni-ko, or the Twelve Lakes, located at the foot of Shirakami-Sanchi. The area is made up of 33 ponds and lakes of varying sizes, among which Aoike, or the “Blue Pond,” stands out with its mysterious cobalt-blue waters, as if blue ink had been poured into them. The pond’s vivid color remains clear year-round, but the scenery is said to be especially breathtaking in spring.

“From May to June, the melting snow further enhances the pond’s clarity. Around 11 a.m., when sunlight streams directly from above, the surface of the water shines most vividly. The newly sprouted leaves of the beech trees are reflected in the clear water, creating a scene that seems to embody the vitality of spring.”

A shuttle bus operates from Juniko Station to Aoike in coordination with the arrival of the Resort Shirakami, making access to the pond smooth and convenient.

As the train continues north, one of the Gono Line’s most spectacular sections awaits between Fukaura and Hiroto stations. Passengers are treated to dramatic scenery as waves crash against rugged cliffs along the Sea of Japan, filling the train windows with breathtaking views. On the Resort Shirakami (No. 1, 3, and 5), the train slows down along this stretch so travelers can fully enjoy the scenery.

“Fukaura Town is also known as the ‘Sunset Town,’ and the beauty of the sun setting over the horizon is not to be missed,” says HATAKEYAMA.

Further along, at Senjojiki Station, the Resort Shirakami (No. 2, 3, 4, and 5) makes a 15-minute stop. In front of the station, a rocky plateau extends into the sea, said to have been formed when the ground uplifted during the 1792 earthquake. Passengers can explore the coastline on foot, and walking among the uniquely shaped rocks, they are sure to be awed by the natural beauty of the formations.

After passing Ajigasawa Station, the scenery outside the train changes dramatically. The route turns inland from the coast, and apple orchards come into view. In early May, the white blossoms of the apple trees bloom, bringing a sweep of spring color to the countryside along the route. “Apple blossoms are as beautiful as cherry blossoms. The train runs between the orchards, creating a view that can only be seen at this time of year,” says HATAKEYAMA.

In addition, the Resort Shirakami continues from Kawabe Station onto the Ou Main Line, providing access to Hirosaki Station in central Aomori Prefecture. About 15 minutes by bus from Hirosaki Station, Hirosaki Park surrounds Hirosaki Castle, which was built approximately 400 years ago, and is home to some 2,600 cherry trees that bloom each spring, making it one of Aomori Prefecture’s most renowned cherry blossom viewing spots.

The blossoms typically reach their peak in late April. Even after full bloom has passed, visitors can enjoy the sight known as hanaikada, or “flower rafts,” when fallen petals blanket the castle moat. This striking scene draws many visitors from Japan and abroad each year.

Route map of the Gono Line. The dotted section indicates the through-service segment on the Ou Main Line (operated by the Resort Shirakami).

To help passengers more deeply enjoy their journey on the Gono Line, onboard events are held on the Resort Shirakami, offering opportunities to experience regional traditional culture. Travelers can listen to live performances of the Tsugaru shamisen, a style of shamisen music handed down in the Tsugaru region of Aomori Prefecture, as well as storytelling performances in the Tsugaru dialect featuring local folktales. The train also presents performances of the Kinta Mamejo puppet theater, an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Aomori Prefecture.

“The Tsugaru dialect has a distinctive sound even within the Japanese language, so even if you do not understand the words, you can still enjoy its rhythm and atmosphere.”

Why not set out on a journey aboard the Gono Line, one of Japan’s most scenic railway routes, and experience the arrival of spring in northern Tohoku?

By: MURAKAMI Kayo
Photo: Akita Branch Office, East Japan Railway Company; PIXTA