There are many ways to experience Japan, but one of the most memorable is riding a sightseeing train in Kyushu. It’s not just about moving from one city to another, but a journey full of details—traveling through the landscape, gazing at the scenery, and letting yourself become immersed in a small world within the cabin.
This is the story of my three days on three JR Kyushu Design & Story Trains (D&S): the A-Train, Yufuin no Mori, and Aso Boy!—each with its own character, as if with a distinct soul and voice.
Day One: A-Train to Misumi – A Memorable Short Stopover
The journey began at Kumamoto Station on a bright morning with a light mist. On the platform stood the majestic A-Train, a classic gold-and-black design. The words “Take the A-Train” adorned its side, reminding me of a legendary jazz song. I smiled as I pointed to the circular logo on the window—a symbol that this was no ordinary train.
The train moved slowly. The interior was full of wood accents, warm lighting, and the jazz music made me feel like I was in a classic lounge on rails.
On the way, we stopped briefly at Oda Station, a cute little station. It was only a few minutes, but enough time to get off and take photos. Outside, the sea air was crisp, and the blue sky added to the perfect atmosphere.
The A-Train’s final destination was Misumi Station, the westernmost point on the route. From there, I continued my journey on the Amakusa Sea Cruise—crossing the sea to the Amakusa island group on a classic ferry. The ticket was beautiful, emblazoned with the words “Sea Cruise – Amakusa Takarajima Line.” I immediately kept it, as it wasn’t just a token of my journey, but a small artifact that would become part of my memory book.
That afternoon I returned to Kumamoto for the night. I slept soundly, but I knew that an even more special adventure awaited the next day.
Day Two: Yufuin no Mori – The Earthquake and the Little Girl Train Driver’s Uniform
The next morning, I took the Shinkansen from Kumamoto to Hakata, then connected to the Yufuin no Mori—an emerald green train that’s a favorite among landscape lovers and tourist train enthusiasts.
As soon as I boarded, I was immediately captivated. The carriage was elegant, with wide windows, polished wooden floors, and plush seats upholstered in brown and dark green fabric. All the passengers seemed at ease, enjoying the views of the rolling hills and rice paddies.
Among the brochure racks, I found an exclusive postcard and a station stamp—an unwritten tradition in Japan. I immediately took out my pocketbook to stamp it. It felt like a small ritual that binds us to the journey.
The Hakata-Yufuin journey took just over two hours, but the atmosphere was breathtaking. I took many photos, including a selfie on the platform with this legendary green train. Midway through the journey, the flight attendant gave two little girls miniature train driver’s uniforms. They happily posed for pictures inside the carriage—a sweet moment that brought smiles to the entire cabin.
However, that afternoon, a surprise awaited: a small earthquake shook Yufuin. The tremors weren’t strong, but enough to cause the train to stop momentarily. A warning sounded on my phone, and the atmosphere suddenly fell silent. There was no panic, just a deep silence. The mountains enveloped me in cool air, and the overcast sky added to the drama. A few minutes later, the train was moving again. Japan is used to this, but for me, it was an unforgettable experience.
Morning in Yufuin – Smiles and Clear Skies
The next morning, Yufuin was sunny again. Our hotel happened to be right in front of Yufuin Station, so I only had to step outside for a moment to capture the atmosphere: relaxed pedestrians, small shops opening, and the next train waiting. That afternoon, I boarded the Yufuin no Mori train back to Beppu.
Day Three: Beppu, Iconic Statues, and Aso Boy!
From Yufuin, I headed to Beppu, a hot spring town famous throughout Kyushu. In front of the station stands a statue of an old man raising his hand with a broad smile—Jigoku Mushi Oyaji, or Hell-Steamed Old Man. This statue is like an icon of Beppu hospitality, and a must-see photo op. I posed beneath it, because this trip is all about small, fun symbols.
From Beppu, I continued on Aso Boy!, a black-and-white train themed around Kuro, the cute dog mascot of the Aso region. The interior is like a child’s world: mini chairs, a reading room, a play area, and even a unique chair facing the panoramic windows. I wandered around, collecting Aso Boy! postcards, and of course, photographing the Kuro doll that popped out from the seat back.
Inside, the atmosphere was cheerful. Children laughed, parents relaxed, and friendly staff explained every corner of the train. Aso Boy! isn’t just a train—it’s a moving playground.
Aso – Kumamoto – Hakata: A Tranquil Conclusion
Arriving in Aso, the mountain air greeted us. Greenery stretched out, and the scent of the forest wafted through the small station.
