Hidden Rail Gem: Yamada Line Morioka to Miyako (Japan)
In this series on hidden rail gems, I will introduce you to relatively unknown yet highly scenic train rides well worth taking.
This article explores a hidden rail gem in Japan: the Yamada Line from Morioka to Miyako.
About the Yamada Line
The Yamada Line is a railway line in Japan’s Iwate Prefecture, and connects Morioka with Miyako.
This single-track railway line is 63.4 miles (102.1 kilometres) long and operated by JR East, which uses KiHa 110 series DMUs (diesel multiple units) on the route.
The Yamada Line was opened in stages, with the first stretch from Morioka to Kami-Yonai being inaugurated on the 10th of October 1923.
The 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami caused severe damage to the railway line, its stations, and other infrastructure, leading to a temporary closure.
In recent years, several stations on this rural line, including Ōshida, Asagishi, and Hiratsuto, have been permanently closed due to low passenger numbers.
KiHa 110 series DMU. ©AndyBTravels
My train journey on the Yamada Line
When I travelled on the Yamada Line, I was surprised to find hardly any other passengers.
In fact, it may well have been the emptiest Japanese train I’ve ever taken!
The Yamada Line runs through the Kitakami Mountains, offering superb views of forested mountains and rivers from the train window.
The pictures and video below will give you a good impression what it’s like to travel on this scenic railway line.
Short video impression of the train ride. ©AndyBTravels
Beautiful scenery along along the line. ©AndyBTravels
Stop at one of the intermediate stations along the line. ©AndyBTravels
River view. ©AndyBTravels
Deer
Another reason the Yamada Line is a true hidden rail gem is the chance to spot deer running alongside the tracks from the window.
During my journey, I counted plenty of deer along the line, in the river, and on the banks, which was great fun to see.
As is common on many Japanese DMUs and EMUs used for regional or commuter services, you can stand next to the driver’s cab and enjoy the view of the tracks ahead.
At one point, there were even deer inside a tunnel, and the driver had to sound the horn to chase them off the tracks and out of harm’s way!
Spot the deer in the river! ©AndyBTravels
Deer in the railway tunnel. ©AndyBTravels
Conclusion
The Yamada Line in Japan, operated by JR East, is a hidden rail gem with beautiful views of lush mountains and winding rivers.
Another highlight of a trip along this railway line is the chance to spot deer from the train window!
Read about other hidden rail gems
In our overview of hidden rail gems, you’ll find many other stunning railway journeys across Europe and beyond that are worth taking for the ride alone.
