"36+3" Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets
This article introduces JR Kyushu’s sightseeing train “36+3,” including its route, fares, stations where it stops, seating information, and how to buy tickets. “36+3” has been suspended since May 12, 2026, for vehicle renovation and is scheduled to resume service on September 3, 2026.
The information in this article is current as of July 2026. Operating days, timetables, fares, and ticket sales conditions may change, so please check the latest information on Ekitan or the JR Kyushu official website before using the service.
“36+3” is a sightseeing train operated by JR Kyushu, converted from the 787 series. It travels through the seven prefectures of Kyushu on routes that vary by day of the week, and passengers can enjoy Green Car seats, Green Car private compartments, and meal plans. All seats are reserved, and advance reservations are required to board. The train has been suspended since May 12, 2026, for vehicle renewal and is scheduled to resume operation on September 3, 2026. Item Content Train Name “36+3” Operating Company JR Kyushu Main Operating Sections Operates on routes that vary by day of the week across the seven prefectures of Kyushu. Service Status Service will be suspended from May 12, 2026, and is scheduled to resume on September 3, 2026. Seat All seats are reserved (including Green Car seats and Green Car private compartments). 
Table of Contents
- What is “36+3”
- Timetable for “36+3”
- Operating Sections of “36+3”
- Stations Where “36+3” Stops
- Fares for “36+3”
- How to Buy Tickets for “36+3”
- Do I Need a Physical Ticket?
- Can I Use Contactless Payment with an IC Card or Credit Card?
- Seating Information for “36+3”
- Enjoy Ekiben (Station Lunch Boxes) and In-Train Gourmet Food on “36+3”
- Points to Note When Riding “36+3”
- Summary
What is “36+3”
“36+3” is a sightseeing train operated by JR Kyushu that debuted on October 10, 2020. Designed by railway designer Eiji Mitooka with the concept of being the “ultimate Kyushu sightseeing train,” it features a dignified body design based on gold. The train is a heavily modified version of a train originally used as the 787 series “Tsubame,” and operates on different routes depending on the day of the week (Kagoshima route on Tuesdays and Saturdays, Kumamoto and Oita route on Wednesdays, Nippo route on Thursdays, Yufuin and Beppu route on Fridays, and the Mankitsu-go (Full Enjoyment Train) departing from and arriving in Hakata on Sundays and Mondays). The number “36” represents the desire to allow passengers to fully experience the charms of the region, which includes the seven prefectures of Kyushu plus Oita, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima.
Train features and popular points
The appeal of “36+3” lies in its luxurious interior, where all seats are premium seats, and its carefully crafted meal plans featuring ingredients from all over Kyushu. Car 1 has a library and shop space, while Car 2 has a counter and lounge, allowing passengers to enjoy a high-quality journey along with the scenery outside the window. The fact that the course differs depending on the day of the week is another reason for its popularity, as passengers can discover different charms even after riding multiple times. Onboard, guides along the route and information about local products are sometimes provided, offering a special experience that goes beyond mere transportation. Each day’s course has a dedicated crew on board who also provides information about the history and culture of the region. Some stations even have a dedicated lounge where passengers can wait before boarding, creating a special feeling from the very beginning of the journey.
Timetable for “36+3”
*The “36+3” route varies depending on the day of the week.
Example routes (operations by day of the week)
| Day of Week | Course (Example) |
|---|---|
| Tuesday and Saturday | Departing from Hakata, heading towards Kagoshima-Chuo (Kanoya course, etc.) |
| Wednesday | Kumamoto/Oita area |
| Thursday | Oita/Miyazaki area (Nippo route) |
| Friday | Yufuin/Beppu area |
| Sunday and Monday | Hakata Departure/Arrival Full Enjoyment Course |
*Course details and operating dates are subject to change.
Estimated departure and arrival times
The “36+3” service has different routes and times depending on the day of the week. For operating times after the service resumes on September 3, 2026, please check the JR Kyushu official website’s operating calendar and route guide.
The most distinctive feature of the “36+3” is that it operates on different routes depending on the day of the week. Most routes depart from and arrive at Hakata Station, but some routes depart from and arrive at Kumamoto Station. In principle, it operates six days a week, with routes to Kumamoto and Oita on Wednesdays, although there are days when it is not operated due to vehicle inspections, etc.
Important information regarding operating days and days when the service is suspended.
The “36+3” train service may be suspended for periods due to scheduled vehicle maintenance. In case of bad weather, parts of the route may be changed or canceled, so it is recommended to check the operating information for the day as well.
Operating Sections of “36+3”
Main sections
- Hakata Station departure/arrival course towards Kagoshima-Chuo (Tuesdays and Saturdays)
- Kumamoto/Oita area course (Wednesday)
- Oita/Miyazaki area course (Nippo route) (Thursday)
- Yufuin/Beppu area course (Friday)
- Hakata Departure/Arrival Full Enjoyment Course (Sunday/Monday)
Depending on the route, you can enjoy representative tourist destinations throughout Kyushu, such as Sakurajima and Ibusuki in Kagoshima, Yufuin and Beppu Onsen in Oita, and the Nichinan Coast in Miyazaki, through the windows of the train or by stopping for sightseeing along the way. Depending on the day of the week, you can encounter completely different aspects of Kyushu, such as a route along Kinko Bay with views of Sakurajima or a route where you can enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Yufuin Basin. The Kagoshima route also takes into consideration connections with the Sakurajima Ferry, and itineraries that allow you to enjoy the magnificent view of Sakurajima from the ferry are popular. Towards the end of the route, a ceremony may be held on board before returning to Hakata Station, providing a fitting conclusion to your journey.
Stations Where “36+3” Stops
Main stops
- Hakata Station
- Kumamoto Station
- Kagoshima-Chuo Station
- Oita Station
- Yufuin Station
- Beppu Station
(Varies depending on the day of the week and course)
*The stops and routes vary greatly depending on the day of the week.
Fares for “36+3”
Representative section fare
The fare for “36+3” varies depending on the section of travel, seat type, and whether or not meals are included. In addition to the basic fare, limited express fare, and Green Car fare, a plan fee is required for plans that include meals. Please check the latest fares on the JR Kyushu official website.
*The fare for “36+3” varies greatly depending on whether you choose a course or meal plan.
Types of Fare Plans
The “36+3” service may offer multiple fare plans, including plans with meals and plans for travel only. Due to the reserved seating, such as Green Car seats and Green Car private compartments, fares are higher than those of regular express trains. Children’s fares and express surcharges are half the adult fare (rounded up to the nearest 10 yen), but meal plans may be the same price as adult fares. Meal plans often include special menus created in collaboration with famous local restaurants, allowing passengers to fully enjoy the food culture of various parts of Kyushu.
Meal plan reservation
Depending on the course, meal plans (lunch, sweets, etc.) are available by advance reservation. If you wish to use a meal plan, we recommend making the reservation early, along with your train ticket reservation. Enjoy the unique limited-edition items available for each course, such as commemorative boarding passes and original goods.
*Fares are subject to change.
How to Buy Tickets for “36+3”
JR Kyushu Internet Train Reservation
JR Kyushu’s online train reservation service allows you to purchase reserved seat tickets using a credit card. Because these are popular sightseeing trains, seats often sell out immediately after going on sale, so early booking is essential.
Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and Midori-no-madoguchi
You can also purchase reserved seat tickets at the station’s reserved seat ticket machines or at the Midori-no-madoguchi.
Travel Agencies
Major travel agencies also offer tour packages that include reserved seating tickets and meal plans for the “36+3” train. Because it’s a popular train, booking through a travel agency is recommended.
How to Buy for International Tourists
“36+3” is a JR Kyushu train, so it may be eligible for the JAPAN RAIL PASS or JR Kyushu Rail Pass. However, as it is a special sightseeing train with reserved seats such as Green Car seats and Green Car private compartments, an additional special fare may be required.
*The types of passes eligible and the applicable conditions may change.
Do I Need a Physical Ticket?
Even if you book through JR Kyushu’s online train reservation system, in most cases you will need to pick up your tickets at a reserved seat ticket machine at the station before boarding.
*Whether or not a ticket is required depends on the type of reservation service.
Can I Use Contactless Payment with an IC Card or Credit Card?
For sections of the “36+3” service that are included in the SUGOCA area, it may be possible to use a transportation IC card for the basic fare portion. However, the limited express fare and premium seat fare cannot be paid using the balance on the IC card and must be purchased as a separate ticket in advance.
As of July 2026, contactless payment via credit card is not widely available for boarding trains on the “36+3” route.
*Please note that you cannot ride using only an IC card. Express train fares and seat charges must be purchased separately.
Seating Information for “36+3”
Seat Types (All seats are reserved; Green Car seats and Green Car private compartments are also reserved seats)
The “36+3” is operated using a specially modified 787 series train set, with all cars featuring premium seats. There are no unreserved seats.
| Seat Type | Content |
|---|---|
| Premium Seats | All vehicles feature spacious, premium seating. |
| Lounge/Counter | Car No. 2: Space where you can enjoy food and drinks. |
| Library/Shop | Car No. 1: Book browsing and merchandise sales space |
| Unreserved Seats | None (All seats are reserved) |
Distinctive seating
Car No. 1 features a library where passengers can browse books related to Kyushu, as well as a shop selling limited-edition merchandise. In Car No. 2, passengers can enjoy drinks and light meals exclusive to this course at the lounge counter. The entire train is decorated in a warm and inviting style, with extensive use of wood. Some seats are pair seats facing large windows, allowing passengers to enjoy their meals while gazing out the window. The seats are made from Kyushu-sourced wood and textiles, and the design incorporates elements that evoke a connection to the region. The library is filled with travel literature and photo books related to Kyushu, and passengers can be seen enjoying reading while looking out the window.
Large luggage storage area
There is space provided within the train for storing large luggage.
Barrier-free facilities
The trains used are equipped with barrier-free facilities. If you will be using a wheelchair, we recommend that you contact a JR Kyushu ticket counter or information center in advance.
*Details of seating arrangements may vary depending on the train configuration.
Enjoy Ekiben (Station Lunch Boxes) and In-Train Gourmet Food on “36+3”
“36+3” offers different meal plans (lunch, sweets, etc.) for each course, featuring ingredients from various regions of Kyushu. Reservations are required in advance. A key feature is the menu, which often includes collaborations with local producers and restaurants, creating a special dining experience that can be enjoyed alongside the scenery outside the train window. Some courses even offer limited-edition menus using vegetables and fruits from local producers.
*The contents and availability of the meal plan may vary depending on the course and time of year.
Points to Note When Riding “36+3”
Since all seats on the “36+3” are reserved, it is recommended to book early if you have a specific date in mind. The routes are fixed for each day of the week, so if you have a destination you would like to visit, please check the corresponding day in advance. Also, some routes include time for sightseeing along the way, so it is a good idea to check the schedule beforehand. In addition to the storage space around each seat, you can also use the racks in the deck area, so if you have large luggage, it is best to consult with the crew.
If you wish to book a meal plan, you will need to make arrangements early, along with your train ticket reservation. Please also note that the fares are higher than those of regular express trains because they include reserved seats such as Green Car seats and Green Car private compartments.
Summary
“36+3” is a JR Kyushu sightseeing train that tours different parts of Kyushu each day of the week, and since its debut in 2020, it has been highly popular as the “ultimate Kyushu sightseeing train.” All seats are reserved, including Green Car seats and Green Car private compartments, so in addition to the basic fare and express train fare, a fare is required depending on the course and meal plan. It is necessary to check in advance the availability of the JAPAN RAIL PASS. Since its launch in 2020, it has received high praise as a special train that condenses the charm of various parts of Kyushu. Many fans ride it repeatedly, aiming to conquer the nine different courses that are offered each day of the week.
Please be sure to check the latest information on the JR Kyushu official website before departure, as operating days, routes, and fares are subject to change. Enjoy your Kyushu tour on “36+3,” where you can enjoy different attractions depending on the day of the week.
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