A Special Train for a Special Journey to Aso

投稿日: 2026.01.05 作成者: denku

~The Specially Designed Train “Kawasemi Yamasemi” of JR Kyushu~

“Kawasemi Yamasemi” is a specially designed train operated by JR Kyushu.
It was designed by Eiji Mitooka, a famous industrial designer who also designed the luxury train Seven Stars in Kyushu.

The design was inspired by the nature and culture of the Hitoyoshi and Kuma areas in Kumamoto Prefecture, and the train began operating in this region in 2017.
“Kawasemi” and “Yamasemi” mean kingfisher in Japanese, and these birds are often seen along the Kuma River.

After the Hisatsu Line was severely damaged by the major flood in 2020, ”Kawasemi Yamasemi” has been operating on the Hohi Line and runs to Aso on special scheduled days.

Yesterday, I had a wonderful experience riding ”Kawasemi Yamasemi” with my family.
We traveled from Higo-Ozu Station to Miyaji Station. Although the ride took only one hour, there was so much to see and do that it felt far too short.

First of all, the interior is beautiful. All of the woodwork is made from locally sourced Kumamoto cedar and cypress.

The braided curtains are made from igusa (tatami grass), a specialty product of Yatsushiro City in Kumamoto, which has the highest production in Japan.

We had our seats in the ”Yamasemi” Green Car, where the interior is based on forest green. The ”Kawasemi” Blue Car feature a blue-themed interior.

Passengers can also enjoy shopping for original goods that are sold exclusively on the ”Kawasemi Yamasemi” train.

There is a commemorative stamp corner, and children can wear a conductor’s uniform. We were very busy enjoying everything!　

The Kumamoto banpeiyu (giant citrus) cider was also especially delicious.

“Kawasemi Yamasemi” operates only on special scheduled days, so please check the schedule in advance. All seats are reserved, and tickets can be booked at the Midori no Madoguchi ticket counters at major JR stations.

The next scheduled operation dates are February 14th, 15th, and 21st,22nd,23rd.

For spring schedules, please wait for an announcement from JR Kyushu and check their “Kawasemi Yamasemi” website again.

特急かわせみやませみ | JR KYUSHU D&S TRAINS D&S列車の旅

When you come to Aso, we highly recommend riding “Kawasemi Yamasemi” to make your visit even more special.
However, please note that the train operates on limited scheduled days, so be sure to check in advance!

Kana

カテゴリー: English Blog, おすすめ   タグ: , , , , , ,   この投稿のパーマリンク

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