Regional Rail Passes in Kyushu
Discover Kyushu and southern Japan with a regional pass!
The subtropical island of Kyushu is Japan's third-largest island. Long considered to be "the end of the world" by the Japanese, Kyushu is now connected to Honshu by Shinkansen and several daily flights connect the island to other major cities in Japan. With beautiful cities, national parks, hot spring resort and delicious regional dishes, Kyushu has something for everyone, all of which is made easily accessible with the many regional pass options that offer unlimited access to certain train lines throughout the area!
How to buy a Regional Pass for Kyushu?
The region is marked by short winters with hot, almost sub-tropical temperatures in the southern prefectures of during summer. Kyushu includes the following seven prefectures:
- Fukuoka Prefecture
- Kumamoto Prefecture
- Nagasaki Prefecture
- Oita Prefecture
- Saga Prefecture
- Kagoshima Prefecture
- Miyazaki Prefecture
Explore North Kyushu!
Kyushu is home to Mount Aso, and is more specifically found in Kumamoto Prefecture. With an altitude of 1,591 metres, is one of the largest active volcanoes in the world! Kumamoto may be well-known for one of the most internationally famous mascots in the world: Kumamon! The iconic black bear is based off of the prefecture's nature as well as being a direct reference to the prefecture's name, which directly translates to "origin of the bear." Visiting Kumamoto entails quality food, including the local-favorite horse meat sashimi and Kumamoto-style Ramen, and gorgeous nature. Additionally, the tectonic activity in the region makes it the ideal place to visit an onsen hot spring!
Also famous for onsen hot springs is the prefecture of Oita, especially the town of Beppu. Coming into Beppu, the steam pillars of warm thermal baths can be seen in the distance, and the distinct smell of nutrient-rich springs can be sensed everywhere! Truly, Beppu must be visited to fully appreciate. Lovers of comfort food will find themselves enjoying the cuisine of Oita, with their variations of fried chicken being the ultimate indulgence. Oita-style karaage (marinated fried chicken) is said to be the best in the entire country, and its local-favorite cousin, toriten (tempura-style fried chicken), also is lauded!
Fukuoka is the most populated prefecture in Kyushu and serves as the entryway to the island from the largest island of Honshu. Fukuoka's capital is a city of the same name, and the local population takes a lot of pride in their home. Conveniently walkable with a series of amazing temples and shrines that are significant to Japan's spiritual history. Many of these religious sites are located in Hakata, an area significantly famous for its signature tonkotsu ramen and yatai food stalls!
Going up to the northern tip of Kyushu is Nagasaki. Though the city is associated with the tragic events at the end of World War II, Nagasaki actually has a long-spanning history as Japan's gateway to the rest of the world. This was the site where many Dutch traders were allowed to interact with the people of Japan back in the 1600s. Near China, much of this culture's influence is apparent, with a significant Chinatown being a staple of the city. Simultaneously, Nagasaki is home to the largest population of Christians in the country, with a museum and memorial in dedication to the 26 Martyrs of Japan. This largely international history makes Nagasaki one of the most distinct cities on Kyushu.
Miyazaki Prefecture can sometimes feel like it isn't part of Japan. With a largely tropical climate and a rich bounty of fruits like mangoes, the prefecture's southern geography is very apparent. Miyazaki may be well-known by foodies around the world for its luxurious Wagyu beef, found in high-end restaurants around the world and renowned for its beautiful marbling. But aside from its delicious food offerings, Miyazaki can also be enjoyed via its beautiful coasts with striking white sand beaches.
Kagoshima is Japan's most southern prefecture on the mainland, with Okinawa located more south but as a separate island. The venerable Sakurajima volcano finds its home here. The mountain is a significant presence that looks over the prefecture's capital city. In fact, Kagoshima is rather famous for its volcanic activity, but the people of the area have utilized this as a distinct part of their identity, with warm onsens blessing the land throughout. the town of Ibusuki in particular is a popular getaway for people within Kyushu and Japan as a whole.
Sakurajima, Kagoshima
@Wikimedia
Enjoy unlimited transportation thanks to your pass!
Why get a regional pass?
Those visiting Japan have undoubtedly heard about the rail pass options available for traveling around Japan via train. As opposed to getting individual tickets, regional and Japan Rail Pass options allow for unlimited rides on certain train lines, removing the need for strict itineraries and planning and oftentimes saving holders money on their commuting expenses. The most wide-ranging and popular option for these passes is the National Japan Rail Pass, which allows for unlimited rides on Japan Railway-operated train lines throughout the country. This includes high-speed Shinkansen bullet trains as well as many express trains and local lines within cities.
However, for those who are concentrating their travels primarily in one region or location, regional pass options also offer great value and convenience! Many of these regional passes operate in the same way as the National Japan Rail Pass, however, they incorporate public transportation options in a designated area. There are regional passes for many locations throughout Japan, such as Kansai, Hakone, Kyushu, Shikoku, Tohoku, and more! Depending on your itinerary and what you plan to see, a regional pass may be best for you, for stress-free, all-encompassing transit to and throughout your favorite destinations in Japan!
Frequently Asked Questions about Regional Rail Passes