[TRIP REPORT] Limited Express Soya To Wakkanai And To Japan's Most Northern Point Cape Soya

JR Hokkaido operates one daily train from Sapporo to Wakkanai with the Limited Express Soya over the Soya Main Line. It connects the capital of Hokkaido with the northern most city of Japan. An essential link to keep the city of Wakkanai connected with the outside world for those who are dependent on public transport.

The KiHa 261 series is used for the Limited Express Soya and offers Ordinary Class as well as Green Car. It usually operates as a 4 car train, but sometimes can be extended during busy periods. The train is geared to withstand the harsh Winter conditions, but in this trip report we can enjoy the Autumn colours instead.

The Limited Express Soya route is as follow: Sapporo - Iwamizawa - Bibai - Sunagawa - Takikawa - Fukagawa - Asahikawa - Wassamu - Shibetsu - Nayoro - Bifuka - Otoineppu - Teshio-Nakagawa - Horonobe - Toyotomi - Minami-Wakkanai - Wakkanai. The railway line from Nayoro to Wakkanai faces an uncertain future as low ridership may threaten its future.

Music used in this video:
* Shane Ivers - VHS Dreams

Additional Info:
- Limited Express train Soya from Sapporo to Wakkanai operated by JR Hokkaido
- Ordinary Class seat 2D car 3
- Travelled on the 13th of October 2023
- Japan Rail Pass + free seat reservation

Additional credits:
- Background image made by Ekirii

Thank you for watching and coming along!