The Kyushu Shinkansen is an indispensable transportation option when planning a trip to Kyushu. This high-speed train connects Hakata and Kumamoto in just 33 minutes, allowing you to get to your destination quickly and save valuable time. Whether you're a first-time rider or a returning traveler, this article will provide you with detailed information on the Kyushu Shinkansen, including fares, reservation methods, and the comfortable cabin environment. Through this article, you will be able to fully understand how to utilize the Kyushu Shinkansen to enhance your travel experience.
Overview of the new trunk line in Kyushu
The Kyushu Shinkansen is a high-speed rail system that connects major cities in Kyushu, providing you with a fast and comfortable travel experience. From Hakata, you can easily reach Kumamoto, Kagoshima and other places, saving you a lot of time in transportation and making your trip to Kyushu more convenient. With the Shinkansen, you can enjoy a fast and quiet trip even if you are a free rider.
Route Map
The main route of the Kyushu Shinkansen starts from Hakata, passes through Kumamoto, and finally reaches Kagoshima Chuo. It is important to note that the Hakata to Shin-Osaka section of the line is a Sanyo Shinkansen line and cannot be used with the Kyushu JR Pass. Therefore, it is important to know the route distribution for your trip planning.
timetable
The frequency of the Kyushu Shinkansen is so high that you can find a train every half hour most of the time, and even up to 8 minutes during peak periods. This schedule greatly reduces your waiting time and ensures a smoother trip.
During peak hours, you can expect the Shinkansen to operate at peak efficiency levels, with some even offering lightning-fast service, allowing you to travel from Hakata to Kumamoto in as little as 33 minutes. This atmosphere and efficiency will significantly enhance your overall travel experience.
Ticket Information
When traveling on the Kyushu Shinkansen, you need to know the fare and how to purchase tickets so that you can plan the best trip. Here you can refer toA complete guide to purchasing tickets for the Shinkansen in Japan! Learn how to buy tickets in one go!For more information, click here.
Standard Fare
The standard fare for the Kyushu Shinkansen includes both the fare and the limited express fare, for example, the reserved seat fare from Hakata to Kumamoto is 5,430 yen. This is a reasonable choice for those who want to enjoy a fast and comfortable journey.
Discount Ticket Options
If you want to save money on transportation, the Kyushu JR PASS is the best choice. With this pass, you can ride free on Shinkansen's reserved and free seats. This is a great way to make your trip more affordable, especially if you plan to travel frequently.
In addition, you can purchase discounted tickets through platforms such as KLOOK and pair them with coupon codes to further reduce travel costs. The Kyushu JR PASS is a one-time payment only, so if the fare from Hakata to Kumamoto is 5,430 yen, you can easily recoup the cost with a 3-day pass, so you won't want to miss out on this great deal.
Reservations and Tickets
When traveling on the Kyushu Shinkansen, you can choose between purchasing a ticket on-site or making a reservation online. If you plan ahead, online reservations will save you time in line and make your travel experience more convenient. If you decide to travel on the spur of the moment, on-site ticketing is still a flexible option, allowing you to buy a ticket and board the train immediately.
On-site and Self-service Ticketing
If you don't have a Kyushu JR PASS or haven't booked your ticket online, you can choose to purchase your ticket at the JR Green Counter or self-service kiosk at Hakata Station. The self-service kiosks are conveniently operated in traditional Chinese, so you can easily choose your destination and seat without having to wait in line.
KLOOK Internet Reservation
By using the KLOOK ticketing system to make online reservations, you can easily select a ticket for the Kyushu Shinkansen. Although the price is the same as purchasing tickets on the spot, you can enjoy a more attractive price by using a discount code or a credit card with a high cash return.
During the KLOOK reservation process, you can simply select the desired frequency and seat and use your favorite payment method.KLOOK's service is available not only for Kyushu Shinkansen, but also for other Shinkansen under its flag such as the Tokaido Line, Sanyo Line, and so on. With this convenient design, your travel plans will be smoother and you can save time and enjoy your trip to Kyushu!
Kyushu JR PASS User's Guide
The Kyushu JR PASS is one of the most cost-effective options for traveling on the Kyushu Shinkansen, and can save you a lot of money on transportation costs, especially when visiting Kyushu. By usingNew rules for Shinkansen! Reservations are required for oversized baggage.You can easily learn about the different transportation options available to you. Don't forget that if you have a JR PASS, you can take designated Shinkansen seats free of charge and make reservations at any time, making your trip even more flexible and convenient.
Fares and Zoning
Fares for the Kyushu Shinkansen are usually divided into a fare and a limited express fare. For example, if you travel from Hakata to Kumamoto, the total fare is about 5,430 yen if you choose a reserved seat. Remember that if you have a JR PASS, you can ride the reserved seats for free and go to the Green Counter to reserve a seat, which is very convenient.
Handling Fee and Recommendations
Although JR PASS can save you a lot of money, there is often a handling fee when you make a reservation through the Internet. If you are not in a hurry, it is recommended that you make your reservation directly at the JR Green Counter. This not only saves you money on the handling fee, but also allows you to enjoy the flexibility of choosing a seat right away, especially during peak hours, so that you can avoid the frustration of not having enough seats.
Shinkansen Cabin Environment
When traveling on the Kyushu Shinkansen, you will enjoy a spacious and comfortable cabin environment. The seats are elegantly designed with plenty of legroom, and are equipped with convenient folding tables and charging outlets to make your trip even more convenient. In addition, the Shinkansen provides clean aisles and sanitary facilities to keep you comfortable during your trip.
Seating Facilities
Seating facilities on the Shinkansen are very well equipped. Each seat has adjustable armrests and cup holders to suit the needs of different passengers. You can also make use of the folding table in front of your seat, which is very convenient whether you are working or enjoying a snack. And all seats are equipped with sockets so you can keep your cell phone and other devices charged at all times, making them suitable for business people and travelers.
Luggage and toilet space
Special attention should be paid to your baggage configuration on the Route. Large baggage usually needs to be placed in the overhead racks. If you are carrying baggage over 26 inches in size, we recommend you to make a reservation in advance for a seat with oversized baggage to avoid extra charges. In addition, the restrooms are well-equipped, including barrier-free toilets and baby and toddler seats, which are safe for both family travelers and special needs travelers.
In terms of luggage storage, the space provided by the Shinkansen is mainly in the luggage racks above the seats. You need to arrange the size of your luggage appropriately, and if the luggage you are carrying reaches the extra-large size standard (length, width, and height combined exceed 160cm), you must reserve an exclusive seat in advance to avoid additional handling charges. As for toilet space, in addition to the basic small toilets, specially designed barrier-free toilets can accommodate most passengers, making them ideal for families or passengers with special needs.
Train Types and Differences
On the Kyushu Shinkansen, there are two main types of trains: the N700 series and the 800 series. These trains differ in their interior and routes, giving you a variety of riding experiences. For more information on transportation options, please refer toShinkansen Ticket Purchase Tutorials and Seat Types! Must-see Tips for JR Train Rides in Japan.
N700 Series & 800 Series
The N700 series, which runs mainly from Shin-Osaka to Kagoshima Chuo, offers a comfortable ride with an interior designed in wood tones and woven fabrics. The 800 series, which runs from Hakata to Kagoshima Chuo, features a luxurious Nishijin-knit interior that showcases Japan's traditional cultural aesthetics, allowing you to enjoy an elegant atmosphere while traveling at a fast pace.
Mizuho, Sakura & Swallow
Among the Kyushu Shinkansen, the Mizuho, Sakura and Swallow have their own distinctive features. The Mizuho is a high-speed train that stops at the fewest stations and is the fastest; the Sakura is a little slower but still offers good speed and comfort; and the Swallow is a train that stops at each station, making it ideal for travelers who need to get off the train multiple times. Choosing the right train will not only increase the efficiency of your trip, but will also make your itinerary more responsive to your needs.
Kyushu Shinkansen Explained! High-speed experience from Hakata to Kumamoto in 33 minutes!
With the Kyushu Shinkansen, you will experience a convenient 33-minute ride from Hakata to Kumamoto, saving you a great deal of time on your trip to Kyushu. This highway line not only makes it easy to get to and from the station, but also provides a comfortable and well-equipped train environment to make your trip even more enjoyable. Whether you use the Kyushu JR PASS or purchase tickets through other means, you can enjoy the beauty of Kyushu with this fast and convenient travel experience.