The Yakumo Express is a JR West limited express train that runs from Okayama to Yonago, Matsue, and Izumo City in Sanin. There are a lot of trains running, with about one every hour. However, the old-style 381 series limited express train, which has been used since the days of the Japanese National Railways, tilts the body to run at high speed around the sharp curves of the Hakubi Line, but this shaking is so bad that it has a reputation for making people car sick that the train is equipped with an etiquette bag. How many round trips can you make on the Yakumo Express in one day? A tough railway trip (shuttle run) that challenges the limits of your physical strength Can a tiger cat ride without vomiting? Some trains are coupled with panoramic green cars, and you can enjoy the view from the front row of the Hakubi Line (Takahashi River, Hino River, Mt. Daisen, Nakaumi, Lake Shinji, etc.) The 381 series is a rare limited express train type that remains in regular service as the last JNR type. JR West has announced that a new model will be introduced for the Hakubi Line express trains, and retirement is fast approaching. Before the new trains are introduced, railway fans should take a moment to burn into their memory the brave figure of the last JNR-type express train and the world's first pendulum-type train. This time, I took a tough train journey using JR West's super-value unlimited ride ticket, the Dokodemo Kippu. Although the title is "Tough Journey," I will fully convey the charm of the Yakumo Express, the 381 series, and the Hakubi Line. JR West has announced that it will introduce a new train (273 series) in 2024 for the Yakumo Express, which connects Okayama Prefecture and Shimane Prefecture, from spring 2024. The current train (381 series), which has been running since 1982 and is aging, will be retired during the same fiscal year. This means that all "JNR-type express trains" introduced during the JNR era will be completely abolished by JR West and will disappear from Honshu routes. The model is the "273 series." This is a DC express train. A total of 44 cars (11 sets of 4 cars each) will be introduced. In addition, the newly developed and put into practical use "on-board controlled natural pendulum system", the first of its kind in Japan, will improve the ride comfort. This is a mechanism that continuously compares on-board curve data with data from the running point and tilts the car body at the appropriate timing. In addition, service and security will be improved with the installation of large luggage space, increased seat spacing, in-car Wi-Fi, power outlets at all seats, security cameras, and dual systems of equipment. In addition, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the start of operation of the Yakumo, the beige and maroon painted cars of the JNR will be revived on the 381 series. One of the 11 sets will be operated daily from March 19th. #JR West #Hakubi Line #Limited Express Train ======== 00:00 Izumoshi Station (1st train) 5:15 Okayama Station (front row of the Panorama Green Car) 9:38 Front view of the heavy snow on the Hakubi Line 12:03 Kami-Iwami Station 14:13 Lake Shinji 16:11 Izumoshi Station (3rd train) 19:43 Okayama Station (4th train) 22:28 Izumoshi Station (5th train)