Shimokita (train)

The Shimokita is a "Rapid" limited-stop train service in Japan operated by East Japan Railway Company and Aoimori Railway Company, which runs from to via the Aoimori Railway Line and the Ōminato Line.

Service pattern

There are three daily round trip services to Hachinohe.

History

Semi express (1961–1965)

The Shimokita name was first used on 15 September 1961 for a semi express service which operated between in Iwate Prefecture and in Aomori Prefecture via. This was discontinued on 30 September 1965, replaced by the Michinoku service.

Express (1966–1982)

The Shimokita name was subsequently used from 1 October 1966 for an express service which operated between Morioka and in the down direction and between Ōwani and Morioka in the up direction. This was discontinued on 14 November 1982.

Rapid (1993–present)

The Shimokita name was revived in 1993 when new KiHa 100 series DMU trains were introduced on the former Usori rapid services operating between,, and Aomori. On 13 March 2021, the Shimokita service operated jointly by JR East and the Aoimori Railway between and Ōminato was abolished, though the service continues to operate between and Ōminato.