Kitami (train)

The Kitami is a rapid train service operated by Hokkaido Railway Company in Hokkaido, Japan, since 1988. It runs from to on the Sekihoku Main Line.
Prior to the March 2025 timetable revision, it was classified as a special rapid train and only ran as far as.

Service pattern and station stops

There is one train per day in each direction, with the journey taking approximately 4 hours 30 minutes from Asahikawa to Abashiri.
Trains stop at the following stations.

Stations in brackets are only served by Kitami-bound trains.

Rolling stock

Services are formed of one or two single-car KiHa 54 diesel cars based at Asahikawa Depot. Very occasionally, KiHa 150 diesel trains may be used.

History

The Kitami service was first introduced from 19 March 1988 as a seasonal "special rapid" train service. From 3 November 1988, it became a regular daily service.
From 13 March 2004, the train became entirely no-smoking.
The service was extended from Kitami to Abashiri in 2025, and downgraded from "special rapid" to "rapid".