From Okayama to Tottori and Yonago on the "New Yakumo"! A scenic two-hour journey from Sanyo to Sanin

Debuting in April 2024! Yakumo Bronze (JR Okayama Station)

On the weekend, the 8:13am Yakumo Express arrives at platform 2 at JR Okayama Station. The new Yakumo, which debuted in April 2024, features four different bronze colors inspired by the sunset over Lake Shinji and tatara ironworks. The heavy, shiny body of the train heightens the anticipation of the journey. Tourists carrying large amounts of luggage and groups of mountain climbers with backpacks also board the Yakumo.

The cloud-shaped station sign (JR Kurashiki Station)

The "Limited Express Yakumo No. 3" departs from Okayama Station and heads to its first stop, Kurashiki Station. Not only JR Okayama Station, but even the Kurashiki Station signboard has a cloud motif. You can feel the warm hospitality at the stations along the line. After Kurashiki, the train heads north, running from the land of sunshine to the land of myth.

The car body begins to sway

The interior of the new Yakumo train is comfortable, with a wood-grain interior and bright light streaming in through the large windows. After passing through stations such as Soja, Gokei, and Hiba, and approaching JR Mibukuro Station, the train enters a section with a series of curves along the Takahashi River. The latest technology, the "controlled natural pendulum system," allows you to experience a stable ride.

Bitchu Takahashi, a town with a mountain castle (JR Bitchu Takahashi Station)

It takes 34 minutes from Okayama to reach JR Bitchu Takahashi Station. There are many spots where you can feel history and nature, such as Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, famous for its cat lord, and strolling through the streets lined with townhouses. The soft light coming through the hemp leaf patterned sunshade will make your imagination run wild.

Enjoy Chiya beef in an ekiben

There is about an hour and a half left until Yonago. Here, we enjoy the best part of traveling: ekiben. We savor the A5-ranked sukiyaki bento made with Japan's oldest beef breed, Chiya Beef. It is packed with local flavors, such as the soft texture of the wagyu beef and the fragrant pickled ginger.

Niimi, the town of strange and bizarre rocks

At JR Hokoku Station, the train passes other "New Yakumo" trains, and then passes Ikura, known for its limestone caves. In Niimi, where strange rocks and bizarre stones spread out before you, you can feel the power of nature. It is also recommended to get off here and enjoy a trip with all the Chiya beef and a transfer to a local train.

Car Exploration

The new Yakumo is designed to provide a comfortable ride, with excellent seat comfort and spaciousness. After passing Niimi Station, the train enters a mountainous area with a series of sharp curves.

As I walked inside the train, I made a fun discovery, including the strange sight of the coupling parts of the cars tilting.

From Sanyo to Sanin

The Hakubi Line runs alongside the Takahashi River, but when it enters Tottori Prefecture, it runs alongside the Nishikawa River. The flowing river and the new Yakumo continue their journey from Sanyo to Sanin, and from the Seto Inland Sea to the Sea of ​​Japan.

Travel snacks: peppermint and yuzu

For snack time, which is essential on an Yakage, we have a liqueur called "HARERU" made with mint from Yakage. This original liqueur from the sake brewery "Yoikigen" in Soja City adds a refreshing taste to your trip. Combined with "Tennindo" yubeshi, a Takahashi specialty, the Japanese flavor spreads throughout the room.

Free Space

At JR Hoki-Mizoguchi Station, you can relax while gazing at Mt. Daisen to your right. Sit on the curved seats and browse the photo collection of the area along the line to enjoy a relaxing moment.

Mount Hoki

Mt. Daisen was barely visible between the clouds, but I took a photo to commemorate my trip. JR Yonago Station was the last stop on this trip.

A semi-compartment car I'd like to ride someday

At JR Yonago Station, I left the platform while thinking back on my journey with the new Yakumo. Next time, I would like to enjoy a trip in a semi-compartment seat.

Yakumoto Galaxy (JR Yonago Station)

We see the Yakumo off from a platform lined with retro wooden pillars, with stars painted on the floor. JR Yonago Station is also a stop on the WEST EXPRESS Ginga, and the warm local welcome is comforting.

Ratman Train

At JR Yonago Station, you can board the "Ratman Train," themed on Sakaiminato, the hometown of manga artist Shigeru Mizuki, as well as the Detective Conan train. You'll be greeted by unique trains that are unique to the local area.

Green and cloudy beer

The souvenir shop also sells Daisen G Beer's "Gogin Yakumo Express Label" (green). It's the perfect memento of your trip. Make sure to use JR Okayama Station as your base and enjoy your trip on the Yakumo Express.

New Yakumo JR Odekake Net

How to purchase a ticket

Buy online

You can make reservations online through JR West's official website "JR Odekake Net" or through their travel app. Select your desired departure date and time and pay with a credit card. After making a reservation, you can collect your ticket at a designated location or pass through the ticket gates using the QR code.

JR Odekake Net

Buy at the station

On the day of purchase at the station, you can purchase tickets at the ticket counter or ticket machine at Okayama Station and other major JR stations. For a smooth process, tell the attendant that you are going to Yakumo.

Using the Japan Rail Pass

If you have a Japan Rail Pass, you can ride the Yakumo without paying an extra charge. However, if you want to reserve a seat, you will need to make a reservation at the ticket counter.