The Umisachi-Yamasachi is an excursion train operated running along the eastern Kyushu coastline with plenty of gorgeous views along the way.
Table of contents:
Intro
Operating along one of the most remote railways away from Tokyo, the Umisachi-Yamasachi sightseeing train operates along the east coast of Kyushu, near the town of Miyazaki. In Japanese the train name is written as 海幸山幸, meaning: sea and mountain fortune that refers to the beauty of the wider area that includes both the beautiful mountain ranges and coastline of Kyushu.
Running between Miyazaki and Nango stations, the train is one of the joyful trains operated by JR Kyushu, these are special sightseeing train where the purpose of the train ride is to enjoy the experience and beauty of the landscape, rather than it just being a mode of transport.
On board
Designed by Eiji Mitooka and Don Design, the interior is made of cedar wood for a classic and relaxing feel. All seats are sofa seats with plushy padding that recline. During the train ride, staff will play music and tell the story of Umisachi-Yamasachi the train will also make a stop at Aoshima to display the geologic feature known as the Ogre's Washboard.
There’s also a special sales counter where local food and drinks are served in addition to a variety of keepsakes to commemorate the trip.
The route
During days of service, the train runs once in each direction:
The following stops are made: Miyazaki Station - Minami-Miyazaki Station - Tayoshi Station - Kodomonokuni - Aoshima Station - Kitagō Station - Obi Station - Nichinan Station - Aburatsu Station - Nangō Station
Tickets and reservations
Tickets and seat reservations can be made at any JR Station nationwide. Tell the staff when you want to travel, and they will secure the tickets for you. Due to the limited amount of seats available, reservations are required. We also recommend doing so ahead of time, as the train is very popular. Should you have a Japan Rail Pass, or Kyushu Rail Pass, then the train is included, and seat reservations are complementary. You will have to show your pass at time of booking.Tips for riding
- Bring your camera, there are plenty of beautiful views along the way
- Be sure to try the local products on board, from a JR Pass user, we heard the beer especially is good.
- While most people book a one way trip on the train, feel free to book a return using your pass - it’s included anyway!
Photo (c): JR Kyushu Kiha 125 Umisachi Yamasachi by RSA through Wiki commons.
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