Once you get on, you won’t want to get off again!The “SL Hitoyoshi” steam train with its rich vintage charm boasts stunning scenery.

▲ One of Japan's first-ever steam locomotives, the "SL Hitoyoshi."

Reporter Peng Huaiyu / Reporting & Photography from Japan

Trains are not just a means of transport between two places. Under the design of carriage designer Mitsuo Kishi, JR (Japan Railways) trains take on various forms, especially those on the "JR Kyushu" line, which is the birthplace of many Japanese myths and legends—presented in truly spectacular style. Each of the SL Hitoyoshi, the Yufuin no Tamatebako from Yufuin, and the Kirishima Ropponmatsu has its own unique charm. This article introduces one of Japan’s first-ever steam locomotives: the "SL Hitoyoshi."

▲%The front and rear of the JR Kyushu "SL Hitoyoshi" carriages feature observation lounges with large glass windows that let you feel the rush of the train speeding by.

A loud whistle blows, and white and black smoke puff out of the chimney. The "SL Hitoyoshi" runs between Kumamoto and Hitoyoshi, powered by coal-fired steam. You can even witness the nearly extinct "locomotive turnaround" culture. Even non-railfans will find it thrilling.

The "SL Hitoyoshi" has three carriages in total, with an interior design that’s retro and luxurious. Natural wood pairs with leather and plaid fabric sofas, giving off a strong sense of another era and providing a soul-stirring time-travel experience. Both the front and rear carriages have observation lounges with large glass windows that let you feel close to the speed of the rushing train.

▲ Natural wood paired with leather sofas gives the vintage-feeling carriage a soul-stirring time-travel vibe.

The carriage cabinets display various steam locomotive models and also feature a dedicated SL Library, where kids can sit quietly with a book after running around.

▲%The carriage cabinets display various steam locomotive models and also feature a dedicated SL Library, where kids can sit quietly with a book after running around.

The scenery is definitely a major highlight of riding this train. Along the way, you’ll pass by the Kuma River, go through tunnel after tunnel, cross vermilion iron bridges, and drive through lush green forests. The ever-changing scenes are like slides projected in front of your eyes, freezing in your mind in an instant, making scenery-loving travelers absolutely thrilled.

▲ The route takes you past the Kuma River and verdant mountains.

The full journey of the "SL Hitoyoshi" takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes, with brief stops at Hakushi and Isshochi Stations along the way. Interestingly, Isshochi Station sounds like the word for “victory,” and the station is filled with victory-themed items such as white headbands, the “Yay!” pose of Yumataro from Kuma, good-luck amulets for exams, and local specialties.

▲%At this station, you’ll find many victory-related items like white headbands, the “Yay!” pose of Yumataro from Kuma, good luck charms for exams, and local specialties.

Upon arriving at the terminal station Hitoyoshi, look out for Mr. Shobu who sells chestnut railway bento boxes. He’s been selling them since 1965 and has practically become a local icon. Don’t forget to buy one of his popular bentos.

▲ At the terminal station Hitoyoshi, there’s Mr. Shobu who’s been selling his famous chestnut bento boxes since 1965—he’s almost become a local icon.

It’s a bit of a pity that the "SL Hitoyoshi" does not run in winter. Those wanting to ride will have to wait until March 2018 for its return. JR Kyushu Chief Conductor Mizoguchi Takuro explained that to preserve this precious antique train, only one trip is made per day. Like other special trains, advance online reservations are required. Currently, the newer 2017 model "Kirishima Ropponmatsu" runs the same route, and due to its newer design, the journey only takes 1 hour and 40 minutes.

▲ The reporter happened to be on the train on November 18th, which was the 95th birthday of the "SL Hitoyoshi."

After arriving at Hitoyoshi Station, don’t rush off—the "Hitoyoshi Castle Ruins," a 20-minute walk away, are well worth visiting. When the maple leaves turn red, the area becomes even more colorful, adding vibrancy to its usual serene atmosphere and making you want to stay longer.

▲%After arriving at the station, don’t leave right away—the Hitoyoshi Castle Ruins, a 20-minute walk away, are especially beautiful in autumn when the maple leaves turn red, adding color to the serene surroundings.