191030-JR train from Hirosaki to Aomori

This is the train time table at Hirosaki Station

There are so many kinds of trains in Japan from
Bullet train - the most expensive and fastest to
Local train - the cheapest and slowest and it stop every. Though I have read and traveled quite a number of times in Japan via different kind of trains, I still got confused over the express train in Aomori.When we purchase the train ticket from the machine, it said express train ¥520 from Hirosaki to Aomori. We were stop by the station staff to get another ticket at ¥680. We then realised that the basic train tkt is ¥680. If we like to travel express, we need to pay ¥520 more.

Waiting for your train at the correct platform is also another factor note when taking train. The same platform can serve different lines. Always read the sign board and wait at the correct platform. Otherwise, we will miss the train and need to wait for another hour for it.

We expected for a normal train to arrive. But when this train arrived for Aomori, we were surprised and now we understand why we need to pay an extra of ¥520.

Another thing to note when you take such comfortable train. The layout is quite similar to Shinkansen (Bullet trains). No space for luggage on the isle. The best way is to travel light and have the cabin size travel luggage store at the compartment above the seat. For us, we look for space behind the train cars. So, if we are lucky, we can get a seat on the last row of the car. Have our luggage store behind us. Also do note that the space is only good for a 20 inches luggage. You will have problem storing something bigger. I am not sure if there is any luggage storage compartment at other parts of the train.
Another thing to note is, look out for cars that you have booked. If you have reserve a seat, you look for that car before you board. We did not make any reservation. We are lucky to see another group of Europe tourist and followed them for a non-reserved train car. No need to read too much. LOL. Also, the train is quite empty, so we can choose our prefered seat. Do note that we need to keep our train tickets properly. There will be inspector checking on our tickets while we are travelling in our train.