Historical background

Tsugaru Railway Line connecting Aomori Tsugaru Goshogawara and Tsugaru Nakasato. It’s well known as the special train in different seasons. It is the only railway line operated by the Tsugaru Railway Company, which is locally referred to as Tsutetsu. The railway has operated since 1930, and it is also the only private non-electrified railway in Aomori Prefecture right now. It takes approximately 45 minutes one way, and the total length is 20.7km.

Stove Trains (winter) December 1st – (the following year) March 31st annually

The train in winter is equipped with potbellied stoves, and you can grill squid using the traditional stove on the train while seeing the gorgeous scenery of Aomori when it snows through the window.

Furin Trains (summer) July 1st – August 31st annually. 

In summer, the train is decorated with wind chimes hanging with a haiku. When the train shakes, the sound of "ding-ding-ding-ding" echoes in the car, giving passengers a refreshing feeling. 

Suzumushi Trains (fall) September 1st – mid-October (time may change due to the growth of bell crickets)

The train in fall features the sound of bell crickets. Every train will have a cage containing the bell crickets during this period. Every bell cricket is specially cared for by Tsugaru Railway employees.

By Jhang Yan Ling