What Is the Pokémon Train?
The official name is the POKÉMON with YOU Train, a themed sightseeing train operated by JR East. It’s part of Japan’s famous “Joyful Trains,” which are special trains designed around unique travel concepts.
This train was created after the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami to bring smiles back to children and help encourage tourism in the region.
Today, it’s a heartwarming travel experience that both kids and adults can enjoy. Even grown-ups can feel like kids again surrounded by Pikachu!
Inside and outside the train, you’ll find Pikachu everywhere — from seat designs to decorations — plus a special playroom car where children can play while surrounded by Pokémon characters.
Route and Travel Experience
The Pokémon Train runs mainly along the JR Ofunato Line, connecting:
- Ichinoseki Station (Iwate Prefecture)
- Kesennuma Station (Miyagi Prefecture)
The journey takes about 2 hours one way, passing scenic countryside and small towns along the Tohoku coast.
Along the route, you can:
- Spot Pokémon decorations at stations
- Take photos at themed spots
- Join local stamp rally events
- Enjoy beautiful rural Tohoku scenery
The train is part of a broader effort to support regional recovery and tourism.
Operating Days and Timetable
The Pokémon Train typically runs:
- Mainly on weekends
- Japanese holidays (depending on the season)
Schedules can change, so always check the official JR East website before traveling.
How to Ride the Pokémon Train
Seat Reservations
The Pokémon Train is all reserved seating, meaning you need:
- Basic fare ticket (or rail pass)
- Reserved seat ticket
Reservations usually open one month before departure, starting from around 10:00 AM at JR ticket offices or online.
Rail Pass Options
If you have one of these passes, you can usually ride with just a seat reservation:
- Japan Rail Pass
- JR EAST PASS (Tohoku area)
Seat reservations are still required but may be free with valid passes.
Important Tips
- Seats sell out fast — book as soon as reservations open
- Box seats are often shared if you don’t book all seats
How to Get There from Tokyo
From Tokyo, take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Ichinoseki Station.
Travel time:
- About 2.5–3 hours from Tokyo Station
From Ichinoseki, transfer to the Pokémon Train bound for Kesennuma.
A day trip is possible, but staying overnight in the area is highly recommended.
Best Places to Visit Along the Pokémon Train Route
Hiraizumi (World Heritage Site)
A historic city that flourished from the late Heian to Kamakura period.
Don’t miss:
- Chuson-ji Temple
- The Golden Hall (Konjikido)
Access:
10 minutes by train from Ichinoseki get off at Hiraizumi Station + short walk or bus.
Geibikei Gorge
A beautiful 2 km gorge with dramatic limestone cliffs over 50 meters high.
Enjoy traditional boat rides through the valley.
Access:
Get off at Geibikei Station, then walk about 5 minutes.
Kesennuma
A coastal port town known for:
- Fresh seafood
- Recovery story after the 2011 disaster
- Kesennuma Onsen hot springs
It’s a meaningful place to visit and support through tourism.
Is the Pokémon Train Worth It?
Absolutely — even if you’re not a hardcore Pokémon fan.
This train offers:
- Unique themed travel experience
- Family-friendly sightseeing
- Emotional connection to Tohoku’s recovery story
- Beautiful rural Japan scenery
It’s not just transportation — it’s part of the journey.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re traveling with kids, love Pokémon, or want a unique Japan train experience, the Pokémon With You Train is unforgettable.
And honestly?
Even if you just want to ride a train full of Pikachu — that’s already a great reason.