Furano-Biei Norokko Train

Home » Things to Do » Seasonal Events » Furano-Biei Norokko Train

Furano-Biei Norokko Train: A Scenic Saunter Through Hokkaido’s Flower-Filled Fields

Imagine boarding a train that feels more like a cheerful time machine than a modern transport—one that trundles along lazily, winding its way through fields ablaze with the colors of summer, surrounded by an endless expanse of lavender and farmhouses that seem plucked from postcards. Welcome aboard the Furano-Biei Norokko Train, a sightseeing journey through the vibrant, flower-splattered landscapes of Hokkaido’s famed Furano and Biei regions. Operating from June to September, this charmingly sluggish train offers passengers front-row seats to one of Japan’s most stunning spectacles: the peak bloom of lavender fields, all against the majestic backdrop of the Tokachi mountain range. If you want to time your ride perfectly, mid to late July is your moment, when the lavender is at its most glorious.

The Route and Scenery

The Norokko Train pootles along the Furano Line, making stops at several key stations that sound like a floral itinerary of wonder: Furano, Nakafurano, Lavender Farm, Kamifurano, Bibaushi, Biei, and Asahikawa. Of course, the highlight for many is the aptly named Lavender Farm Station, which, as the name suggests, deposits you practically at the doorstep of Farm Tomita, renowned for its sprawling lavender fields and fragrant allure. The journey offers a feast for the eyes: panoramic views of vast flower gardens, rustic farmhouses with roofs the color of autumn leaves, and, standing sentinel in the distance, the snow-capped Daisetsu Mountains.

Even the train’s name has a story to tell. The word “Norokko” is a portmanteau of “noroi” (slow) and “torokko ressha” (trolley train), a perfect reflection of its leisurely pace. And what a relief that is—this is a train that dawdles on purpose, inviting passengers to linger over the scenery.

Train Features and Comforts

The Norokko may be slow, but it’s certainly not uncomfortable. The train consists of three quaint, vintage-style coaches, all with wooden bench seating that harks back to simpler times.

Cars 1 and 2: Non-reserved seating—first come, first served.
Car 3: Reserved seating (complete with free Wi-Fi and adjustable bench backrests for added comfort).

These carriages, painted a lively green with colorful accents, blend harmoniously with the fields and farms outside the windows—or, rather, where the windows used to be. In some parts of the train, the windows have been removed altogether, allowing passengers to lean out, breathe in the crisp Hokkaido air, and snap those envy-inducing photos as the train chugs through paradise.

Some additional perks include:

Free Wi-Fi in the reserved seats (because why shouldn’t your Instagram followers get a real-time lavender update?)
Audio guides in English, Japanese, and Chinese, so you can learn all about the region while you marvel at it.
Wheelchair accessibility, making the train an inclusive journey for all.
And, best of all, a souvenir certificate for every passenger. It’s like a tiny diploma saying you’ve graduated from Hokkaido sightseeing school!

Highlights and Points of Interest

One of the Norokko’s quirks is that it slows down even further (as if that were possible) between Biei and Bibaushi stations, just so you can get a longer, more leisurely look at some of the area’s signature landmarks. Highlights include:

The red-roofed house in Biei, a whimsical splash of color against the green hills.
The lavender fields between Lavender Farm and Nakafurano, where the view will have you reaching for your camera with both hands.

The landscapes, particularly during the peak bloom in July, are so postcard-perfect that you might begin to question whether you’ve somehow wandered onto the set of a travel documentary.

Operating Information

Here’s the lowdown for those planning to hop aboard:

Operating Dates: June to September.

Timetable: Three round trips per day (plenty of time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed).

Ticket Prices & Journey Times

Furano to Lavender Farm: ¥300 (23 minutes)
Furano to Biei: ¥750 (42 minutes)
Furano to Asahikawa: ¥1,290 (1 hour 30 minutes)
Reserved seat surcharge: ¥840

Bonus: If you’ve got a Hokkaido Rail Pass or Japan Rail Pass, you can use it on this train. Consider it your golden ticket to floral nirvana.

Tips and Reservations

Although non-reserved seats are available (and more than adequate for most), it’s highly recommended to book reserved seats in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the peak lavender season when the demand for a prime seat by an open window is as fierce as the views themselves. Reservations can be made up to a month in advance either online or at JR stations.

Access: You can catch the train from Asahikawa Station or Furano Station. If you’re coming from Sapporo, simply hop on the Furano Lavender Express or the Kamui Line to connect to your floral adventure.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a quintessential way to soak in the natural beauty of Hokkaido, the Furano-Biei Norokko Train is your ticket to flower-filled bliss. Whether it’s the purple sea of lavender in July or the rolling, flower-covered hills throughout the summer, this charming little train offers a front-row seat to one of Japan’s most picturesque regions. It’s not just a train ride—it’s a slow-motion journey through a summer dream. So sit back, relax, and let the Norokko Train carry you gently through the heart of Hokkaido’s natural splendor.

For the latest schedules and ticket information, be sure to visit the JR Hokkaido website.