JR Akita Shinkansen Guide: Routes, Tickets, and Travel Tips

09/22/2025

Contents

Akita Shinkansen Overview

The Akita Shinkansen is one of Japan’s unique “Mini Shinkansen” lines, offering a high-speed journey from Tokyo to Akita through the scenic countryside of northern Honshu.

Opened in 1997, the line combines full-speed Shinkansen tracks with converted local railways, creating a hybrid system.

Route & Stations: Tokyo to Akita via Tohoku Line

The Akita Shinkansen shares tracks with the Tohoku Shinkansen between Tokyo and Morioka.

From Morioka, Komachi trains diverge onto the former Ōu Main Line, now converted to standard gauge for Mini Shinkansen operations.

The total journey from Tokyo to Akita takes about 3h40m on the fastest services.

Key stations include:

Morioka
junction where Komachi splits from Hayabusa.
Shizukuishi
gateway to ski resorts and hot springs.
Kakunodate
famous for samurai residences and cherry blossoms.
Tazawako
near Lake Tazawa and Nyuto Onsen hot springs.
Akita
terminal city, known for Kanto Festival and regional cuisine.

Rolling Stock: E6 Series Komachi Trains

The line is operated exclusively by the sleek E6 series trains, introduced in 2013.

These trains are designed for both full Shinkansen speeds (320 km/h when coupled with Hayabusa south of Morioka) and slower Mini Shinkansen sections (up to 130 km/h).

The E6 has a distinctive red-and-white livery inspired by Akita’s Namahage folklore and cherry blossoms.

Interiors feature modern seating, spacious legroom, and stylish lighting. Seating options are Standard and Green Car; there is no Gran Class on Komachi trains.

Mini Shinkansen Features & Onboard Comfort

Because the line runs on converted local tracks between Morioka and Akita, platforms are shorter and curves tighter than on standard Shinkansen.

This gives the Akita Shinkansen a unique “regional express” feel while still being part of the national network.

Onboard, passengers enjoy reserved seating in all cars, reclining seats with outlets, and Wi-Fi coverage.

The ride offers changing scenery: urban Tokyo, mountain passes, rural rice paddies, and lakeside panoramas near Tazawako.

Akita Shinkansen tickets & schedule

Tickets for the Akita Shinkansen are straightforward but include a few unique points.

This section outlines service types, pass coverage, and booking tips.

Service Types: Komachi Coupled with Hayabusa

All Akita Shinkansen trains are branded Komachi.

Between Tokyo and Morioka, Komachi runs coupled with Hayabusa services of the Tohoku Shinkansen.

At Morioka, the two separate: Hayabusa continues north to Aomori, while Komachi heads west toward Akita.

This coupling ensures efficient use of track slots and allows passengers from Tokyo to enjoy a seamless connection to Akita without transfers.

JR Pass Coverage, Regional Passes & Fare Information

The Japan Rail Pass covers the Akita Shinkansen, including all reserved seats.

Travelers may also use the JR East Pass (Tohoku area), which is cost-effective for exploring both Akita and nearby prefectures like Iwate or Aomori.

As of 2025, a one-way reserved seat Tokyo–Akita costs around ¥18,000 in Standard Class.

Passes are highly recommended for long-distance or multi-day travel.

Seat Reservations, Baggage Rules & Online Booking

All seats on Komachi trains are reserved only—there are no non-reserved cars.

Travelers must book a seat in advance, especially during peak seasons such as Golden Week, Obon, and New Year.

Baggage rules follow JR East standards.

Unlike Tokaido or Sanyo Shinkansen, there is no mandatory oversized baggage seat system here.

Large suitcases and ski gear can be stored in overhead racks or in spaces behind the last row, with staff assistance if needed.

Reservations can be made online through JR East’s official English booking system.

Practical Tips for Akita Shinkansen Travelers

The Akita Shinkansen offers more than speed.

It provides a window into Tohoku’s rural beauty.

Best Times to Travel & Seat Side for Views

Morning departures from Tokyo allow arrival in Akita by lunchtime, while evening trains are popular with business travelers.

Midday services are less crowded.

Seat tips:

Northbound left side: views of Lake Tazawa near Tazawako.
Southbound right side: vistas of rice paddies and distant mountains.
In spring, sit by the window near Kakunodate to see cherry blossoms.

Station Facilities & Accessibility

Morioka Station has abundant dining options, souvenir shops, and tourist centers.

Akita Station offers easy access to the city center, with nearby hotels and the Akita Museum of Art.

All major stations provide barrier-free access with elevators, tactile paving, and accessible restrooms.

Wi-Fi is available at most stations and onboard.

Sightseeing & Local Culture Along the Route

Kakunodate
preserved samurai residences, cherry blossoms in April.
Lake Tazawa
Japan’s deepest lake, famous for cobalt-blue water.
Nyuto Onsen
traditional hot spring area hidden in the mountains.
Akita City
host of the Kanto Festival, lively izakaya culture, and renowned local sake.

The Akita Shinkansen is not only a transport option.

It is an invitation to explore the cultural richness of northern Japan.

FAQ About the Akita Shinkansen

How long does the Tokyo–Akita trip take?: About 3h40m on the fastest Komachi services.
Is the Akita Shinkansen covered by the JR Pass?: Yes, fully covered including reserved seats.
Do I need to reserve a seat?: Yes. All Komachi cars are reserved only.
Is Gran Class available?: No. Komachi trains have Standard and Green Car only.
Can I bring large luggage or skis?: Yes, but store them in racks or behind last-row seats. No oversized baggage seat reservation is required.
Is Wi-Fi available?: Yes, onboard Wi-Fi is provided, though coverage may weaken in tunnels.
Why is it called a Mini Shinkansen?: Because it runs partly on converted local tracks, narrower and with slower maximum speeds than full Shinkansen lines.