 The name comes from Sōya Subprefecture.On 19 November 2016, JR Hokkaido's President announced plans to rationalise the network by up to 1,237 km, or ~50% of the current network, including proposed conversion of the Nayoro - Wakkanai section of the Soya Line to Third Sector operation, but if local governments are not agreeable, the section will face closure.One "Sōya" limited express service operates each way between and daily, and two "Sarobetsu" services also operate each way between Asahikawa and Wakkanai daily.