This video offers a detailed look at the Super Oki Limited Express (スーパーおき), a long-haul diesel train operated by JR West (JR西日本) in the San’in region of Japan. The Super Oki utilizes the KIHA 187 series DMU (diesel multiple unit) and is renowned for being one of the lengthiest limited express services in western Japan, traveling a one-way distance of 378.1 km between Tottori and Shin-Yamaguchi. Passengers experience roughly five hours on board, making this a unique way to observe the changing landscapes between the Sea of Japan and inland western Honshu.

The journey showcases a variety of scenery, starting from Tottori in Tottori Prefecture and ending at Shin-Yamaguchi Station in Yamaguchi Prefecture, passing through key stops in the San’in region. For train enthusiasts, the Super Oki is notable for its combination of speed and efficiency on non-electrified, rural lines, powered by the robust KIHA 187 series. The journey highlights the practical challenges and rewards of riding a regional limited express in Japan, with extended travel times and variable infrastructure compared to urban shinkansen routes.

Travelers considering this route will benefit from understanding the unique qualities of diesel express services in Japan and the regional importance of the Super Oki for local communities. The train provides a vital link between Tottori, Shimane, and Yamaguchi prefectures, making stops at smaller cities and scenic stations. Along the way, passengers can enjoy panoramic views of Japan’s lesser-known coastal and inland regions, with opportunities for sightseeing at towns that still retain a traditional atmosphere.

For visitors interested in Japanese rail travel beyond the Tokyo-Osaka corridor, the Super Oki Limited Express presents both a logistical challenge and an opportunity to access off-the-beaten-path destinations in the San’in region. If you are looking to travel from Tottori (鳥取) to Shin-Yamaguchi (新山口) while experiencing authentic Japanese rail culture and local hospitality, this five-hour train ride is a memorable option.