Autumn Shinetsu: a one-off through train from Naoetsu to Nagano, 21–22 November
オータム信越号
Echigo Tokimeki Railway runs its local train all the way to Nagano for the first time, past the Myoko highlands, with free seating and souvenir certificates.
When21 Nov – 22 Nov 2026
WhereNaoetsu – Nagano
On Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 November 2026, Echigo Tokimeki Railway and Shinano Railway run the Autumn Shinetsu, a special local train between Naoetsu on the Sea of Japan coast and Nagano, over the old Shinetsu main line through the Myoko highlands.
It is the first time Echigo Tokimeki's own local-train cars run through to Nagano since the two companies took over the line. The four-car train makes one round trip each day, leaving Naoetsu in the morning and returning from Nagano in the early afternoon, and stops at every station.
Riders get a commemorative certificate between Arai and Myoko-Kogen, a pop-up stand at Naoetsu (platforms 1–2, 7:30–8:50) sells souvenirs, and towns along the Kita-Shinano Line hold a welcome event in the Nagano Station concourse when the train arrives.
For visitors
- All seats are unreserved — just board with any ticket valid for your section. The timetable is on Echigo Tokimeki Railway's notice (morning departure from Naoetsu, early-afternoon return from Nagano).
- IC cards (Suica etc.) cannot be used for journeys that start or end on the Echigo Tokimeki line — buy a paper ticket beforehand.
- The JAPAN RAIL PASS is not valid on either railway. Pass holders can reach Nagano or Joetsu-Myoko on the Hokuriku Shinkansen and buy a local ticket from there.
Sources
- Echigo Tokimeki Railway notice (official, Japanese)
Summarised in our own words from the sources above; last checked 3 Nov 2026. Plans can change — confirm with the operator before you travel.
Local experiences
