All Reviews of JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS

If you're fascinated by unique trains like I am, then when visiting Kyushu, the kingdom of railways, a JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS is definitely the best key to unlocking a dream trip. Since I wanted to ride all of Kyushu's unique sightseeing trains on this trip, getting the All Kyushu pass turned out to be the best-value decision of the journey.

Each of Kyushu's unique trains (D&S sightseeing trains) has a one-of-a-kind spirit. On this trip to Aso, I took the Aso Boy! on the way there, covered in playful dog illustrations; on the return trip, I switched to the Kawasemi Yamasemi, with its elegant, understated wooden interior designed for adults. From Hakata to Saga, I briefly experienced the luxurious 36+3, whose refined private tatami rooms and Japanese craftsmanship felt truly prestigious. On the way to Amakusa, I boarded the retro, jazz-themed A-TRAIN and enjoyed a specialty cocktail, which made the ride slightly tipsy and romantic.

The most unforgettable of all was the Two Stars 4047 racing along the Ariake Sea. Its white cars reflected against the clear sky and ocean scenery, looking like a dream. On the way to Yufuin, the green Yufuin no Mori is another classic that shouldn't be missed. These unique trains not only offer exclusive local meals and commemorative postcards you can stamp, but also limited-edition souvenirs to collect.

Finally, here's my practical advice: After booking in Taiwan, if you want to avoid the one- or two-hour lines often found at major stations like Hakata or Kumamoto, consider exchanging your pass at a Midori-no-Madoguchi ticket office in a less crowded small or medium-sized station along your itinerary. It can save valuable time. I recommend visiting Kyushu and fully experiencing a journey on its unique trains.

If you're sightseeing in Aso, I definitely recommend riding the Aso Boy! at least once. The ride lasts over an hour, but it's never boring. From the moment the train pulls into the station, you'll barely put your camera down!

The entire train, from the exterior to the inside of the cars, is full of thoughtful details, with delicate, cute decorations tucked into every corner. You'll keep taking pictures of everything along the way. Kuro, the star of the train, is especially irresistible. Adults and children alike are almost all won over by him, and in the end, you'll willingly walk into the shop and switch into “keep spending” mode (lol).

The onboard shop is really popular, so if there are any limited-edition items you want, I recommend heading there as soon as you board. Many items are available only in limited quantities, and once they're sold out, they're gone. Especially when you watch the people ahead of you frantically clearing the shelves, that heartbreaking feeling of “it's right there, but I can't buy it” really stays with you! The last time I rode, it happened to be during China's October holiday, and the buying power of the tour groups was incredible. Saying they “cleared the shelves” is no exaggeration.

If you have a JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS, you can also reserve a seat directly using the online reservation service included with the pass. If you're lucky enough to reserve a seat in the first car directly behind the conductor, it's definitely a prime seat! Sitting at the very front and watching the train pass through Aso's green tunnels and forests, with scene after scene coming toward you, is an unforgettable visual feast. If you visit Aso, don't forget to come play with Kuro!

I have a lot to say about this. I originally booked the Aso Boy!, but because of the rain, the streetcar was moving super slowly and I missed it. I got into a huge argument with my friend, and I even squatted on the ground and cried.

I really hate it when things don’t go according to my plan. It was also my first time planning a trip by myself. I know plans can’t always keep up with changes, but when it completely falls through, I just feel like everything is ruined.

Maybe I had also built up too much stress... because some of the earlier parts of the trip had already changed too, so I kind of had a meltdown haha.

But then my friend immediately booked the Yufuin no Mori. I got on the train very unwillingly, though I had already planned to stay in Yufuin for one night.

I mean, I really wanted to go see Beppu, and I wanted to see the decorations on the Aso Boy! too. That dog must have been so cute...

Well, my friend bought me ice cream, so I had no choice but to forgive him.

Super convenient! You can go anywhere you want—this pass is seriously a must-have for traveling around Kyushu. At first, I thought it was pricey, but after using it, I realized it’s totally worth it. Just a few rides and it pays for itself.