Kyushu Railway Journey: 4 Family-Friendly Trains with KURO from Aso Boy Full Companionship

▲ Limited Express “Aso Boy!” (Photo by Huang Shiyuan)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Kyushu in Japan is a paradise for train enthusiasts. Travel writer Luo Qinying recommends four family-friendly trains. Each of the four major trains incorporates local stories, culture, and mythology to delight both children and adults.

1. Aso Boy
The Aso Boy is a sightseeing train running between Kumamoto and Miyanohara, with a journey time of about 1.5 hours. Its exterior is covered with Kyushu’s mascot, KURO. The train features a play area where kids can have fun while parents relax. Additionally, Car No. 3 is equipped with family seating, and the train offers limited-edition bento meals and KURO souvenirs.

▲ Limited Express “Aso Boy!” (Photo by Huang Shiyuan)

2. Kirishima no Tamatebako
The Kirishima no Tamatebako is inspired by the story of “Urashima Taro” and is a creation of Japanese industrial designer Eiji Mitooka. It runs between Kagoshima and Kirishima, featuring a black-and-white exterior with bookshelves filled with fairy tale books inside.

▲ Kirishima no Tamatebako (Photo from wiki)

3. Umisachi Yamasachi
The Umisachi Yamasachi train design is based on the legend of Umisachi (Sea Deity) and Yamasachi (Mountain Deity). The two trains are red and blue, representing the two brothers, with wooden-textured exteriors and interiors. Note that there is only one daily round-trip service for Umisachi Yamasachi.

▲ Umisachi Yamasachi (Photo from wiki)

4. Yufuin no Mori
The Yufuin no Mori is a popular sightseeing train running between Hakata and Beppu. It features elevated interiors and large windows for scenic views. Its highlight is that the train slows down at special scenic spots and announces them via broadcast, also providing small props for passengers to take photos with.

▲ Limited Express “Yufuin no Mori” (Photo by Huang Shiyuan)

Other trains such as the KUMAMON train are also incredibly cute and highly popular. This summer vacation, parents might consider planning a railway trip through Kyushu, Japan, taking the whole family on a train vacation.