Taisetsu
The Taisetsu is a special rapid service operated by Hokkaido Railway Company between and in Hokkaido via the Sekihoku Main Line since 15 March 2025. The service was formerly classified as a limited express train from 4 March 2017 until 14 March 2025. The Taisetsu name was also formerly used for express services operated by Japanese National Railways and later by JR Hokkaido from June 1947 until March 1992.
Service outline
, two return services operate daily between and on the Sekihoku Main Line, supplementing the Okhotsk limited express services operating between and Abashiri.Stops
Trains stop at the following stations:- - - - - - - - - -
Rolling stock
As of 15 March 2025, Taisetsu services are normally formed of H100 series diesel-electric multiple units railcars, with monoclass non-reserved seats.Former
Until 17 March 2023, services were formed of 4-car KiHa 183 series diesel multiple unit trains as shown below. All cars were no-smoking.Until the end of limited express services on 14 March 2025, 3-car KiHa 283 series diesel multiple unit trains, with monoclass passenger accommodation.
History
1947–1963
The train service that was later to become the Taisetsu was first introduced on 29 June 1947 as an unnamed steam-hauled express service operating between and via and. The train received the name Taisetsu from 1 April 1951.This service ran until 31 May 1963, after which it was replaced by the Lilac service.