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Make the most of your summer break with a breathtaking train journey through Kyushu

Published: 2026-09-25 👁 100 views
Last updated 2026-09-25 — When it comes to exploring Kyushu, a railway trip is definitely the top choice. The region’s picturesque scenery of mountains and seas is not to be missed. Each town, brimming with southern charm, also carries unique stories set against the backdrop of history—making every attraction hard to resist...

Text by Monocle Travel Editorial Team
 
When it comes to exploring Kyushu, a railway trip is definitely the top choice. The region’s picturesque scenery of mountains and seas is not to be missed. Each town, brimming with southern charm, also carries unique stories set against the backdrop of history—making every attraction hard to resist. Planning your itinerary by train offers exciting themes and a compact schedule. Especially with the distinctive style and high-quality execution of each sightseeing train, the journey itself becomes an unforgettable travel experience.
 

Explore Kyushu at your own pace, travel all over the region, and enjoy discounted mobile data rates for travelers in Japan (Image provided by Monocle Travel Editorial Team)

 
Hayato no Kaze (The Wind of Hayato)
 
With its all-black exterior, the train exudes a refined and minimalist style; the calm wooden seats inside add to its simple yet luxurious charm. Riding the Hayato no Kaze feels like gliding through the homeland of the Hayato people on a breeze. Along the way, aside from enjoying the natural beauty, the two historic stations—Ōsumi Yokokawa and Kariage—are particularly evocative. Both stations opened in 1903 and are among the oldest in Kagoshima Prefecture. Their wooden ticket offices and chairs, with peeling white paint, evoke a deep sense of nostalgia. The train stops here for five minutes, giving you time to step out and take photos.
 

A race between history and speed (Image provided by Monocle Travel Editorial Team)

 
Umikaze Yamakaze (Sea Fortune, Mountain Fortune)
 
This is a train filled with myth and legend. Its pure white livery paired with Iwaki cedar creates a concept of a “gentle wooden toy-like train.” Riding the Umikaze Yamakaze, you’ll travel along the beautiful Nichinan Coast while the conductor vividly recounts the ancient mythology of this land—the tale of Umikaze and Yamakaze—which also gives the train its name. The interior follows an elegant and simple Japanese aesthetic. The conductor doesn’t just tell stories but also interacts with passengers through games. Since this train passes through popular tourist spots in Miyazaki, tickets—especially during peak season—can be hard to come by if you don’t book a month in advance.
 

A toy train weaving through myths (Image provided by Monocle Travel Editorial Team)

 
While enjoying your train journey, don’t miss the exciting summer festivals and dazzling fireworks displays. In August, events such as the Chikugo River Fireworks, Yamanaka Lantern Festival, and Kirishima City Fireworks will light up the season. Download the *Complete Self-Guided Kyushu* app and set off right away. Get the MOOK Freedom E-Bookstore’s *Complete Self-Guided Kyushu* now and enjoy a 10% discount on mobile data rates for travel in Japan.
 
 
●  Read more: Free escape to Japan’s summer cool spots—Mystery travelers wanted for Kochi tourism
http://www.tripass.net/article.php?op=articleinfo&articleid=8818
 

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