Explera DMC Japan is preparing Hokkaido rail programmes around JR Hokkaido's two new sightseeing trains. The Red Star is due to start in February 2027 between Sapporo and Abashiri, and the Blue Star in June 2027 on the Furano line through Biei. Both were first planned for spring 2026 and were moved back because rebuilding the cars took longer.
Both trains are rebuilt KiHa 143 diesel cars designed by Eiji Mitooka, the designer behind several of Japan's best-known tourist trains.
Where will the two trains run?
- Red Star, Sapporo to Abashiri. It starts on this route in February 2027, the drift ice season on the Sea of Okhotsk coast.
- Red Star, eastern Hokkaido. It is also planned to run between Kushiro and Shiretoko-Shari on the Senmo line.
- Blue Star, Asahikawa and Biei to Furano. It starts in June 2027, in time for the summer flower season.
- A name for each route. JR Hokkaido gives each run its own train name, so the name on the ticket depends on the route.
How do we plan groups around them?
- Build the trip around the train. The Red Star suits a winter programme with drift ice at Abashiri, and the Blue Star a summer one in Furano and Biei.
- Expect few seats. These are small sightseeing trains, so we ask for group space as soon as sales open.
- Keep a fallback. Until timetables and sales dates are fixed, we plan each itinerary so it also works on regular trains or by coach.
- Watch for updates. Dates can still change, and we confirm every detail with JR Hokkaido before we quote.
See our guides to the Shiretoko Peninsula, Furano and Biei and luxury train journeys in Japan.
Sources: Travel Voice: JR Hokkaido sets 2027 start dates for its new tourist trains and Travel Watch: Red Star and Blue Star start dates.
FAQ
When do the Red Star and Blue Star trains start? The Red Star is due to start in February 2027 and the Blue Star in June 2027. Both were first planned for spring 2026.
Where does the Red Star run? It starts between Sapporo and Abashiri, and is also planned between Kushiro and Shiretoko-Shari in eastern Hokkaido.
Where does the Blue Star run? On the Furano line, between Asahikawa or Biei and Furano, in the summer flower season.
Can groups book seats on the new trains? Seat numbers are small, so we request group space as soon as sales open and keep a fallback plan on regular trains or by coach.
Planning a Hokkaido rail programme for your clients? Write to b2b@explera.jp, message the trade desk on WhatsApp at +66 93 656 8090, or register on the B2B portal. Proposals within 24 hours. IATA TIDS 96215733, ASTA member 900408341.
