"A-TRAIN" Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR Kyushu sightseeing limited express train "A-TRAIN" which connects Kumamoto Station and Misumi Station. It includes timetables, fares for representative routes, stations served, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. This sophisticated sightseeing train, named after a famous jazz song, offers essential information to consider before your trip.
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 railway company's official website before using the service.
The "A-TRAIN" is a JR Kyushu sightseeing limited express train connecting Kumamoto Station and Misumi Station via the Misumi Line. It operates using modified Kiha 185 series diesel railcars, which debuted in October 2011. It connects with Amakusa Airlines and Amakusa Treasure Island Line ferry services, serving as a gateway to the Amakusa Islands. The train's name is inspired by the famous jazz song "Take the 'A' Train," and it features a bar counter. All seats are reserved, so advance seat reservations are required. Since its launch, it has established a unique brand as a sophisticated sightseeing train connecting Kumamoto and Amakusa. The train's design exquisitely blends the Christian culture of the Amakusa region with a jazzy atmosphere befitting an adult journey. The train depot is located in Kumamoto City, and meticulous preparations, including inspections of the bar counter equipment, are carried out before each operation. Item Content Train Name "A-TRAIN" Operating Company JR Kyushu Main Operating Sections Kumamoto Station to Misumi Station (via Misumi Line) Main Starting and Ending Stations Kumamoto Station / Misumi Station Number of Trains Running A few round trips per day Estimated Travel Time Kumamoto to Misumi: Approximately 1 hour Seat Type Ordinary Car Reserved Seat 
Table of Contents
- What is "A-TRAIN"?
- Timetable for "A-TRAIN"
- Operating Section of "A-TRAIN"
- Stations Served by "A-TRAIN"
- Fares for "A-TRAIN"
- How to Buy Tickets for "A-TRAIN"
- Is a Physical Ticket Required?
- Can I Use Contactless Payment with an IC Card or Credit Card?
- Seat Information for "A-TRAIN"
- Bento Boxes and In-Train Gourmet Food You Can Enjoy on the "A-TRAIN"
- Points to Note When Riding the "A-TRAIN"
- Summary
What is "A-TRAIN"?
The "A-TRAIN" is a JR Kyushu sightseeing limited express train that debuted on October 8, 2011, connecting Kumamoto Station and Misumi Station. The train's name is derived from the jazz standard "Take the 'A' Train," also known as a song by Duke Ellington, and also carries a meaning that connects to the Christian "A" (Amen) (referring to the Christian culture that spread to Amakusa). The train's exterior features stained-glass-like decorations, giving it a sophisticated, adult feel. The "A" painted on the exterior and the gold decorations placed throughout the train further enhance its luxurious appearance. The unique concept of combining Duke Ellington's music with Christian prayers is a testament to the ingenuity of designer Eiji Mitooka. The stained-glass-like designs placed throughout the train are said to have been inspired by church architecture.
Train Features and Popular Points
The appeal of the "A-TRAIN" lies in its relaxed atmosphere, perfect for adult travelers, with jazz music playing inside and drink service at the bar counter. The train offers scenic views of the inland sea of the Uto Peninsula, and smooth transfers to Amakusa Airlines and Amakusa Treasure Island Line ferry services after arriving at Misumi Station, making it a convenient starting point for trips to the Amakusa Islands. The train's interior is decorated with elements related to the Christian culture of the Amakusa region, allowing passengers to enjoy the journey while feeling the historical background. The calm scenery of the inland sea of the Uto Peninsula unfolds from the windows, evoking a sense of wanderlust. The jazz music played inside the train sometimes changes depending on the season and time of day, offering new discoveries with each ride. The jazz music is played from a playlist selected to match the time of travel, creating an extraordinary atmosphere. Historical panels related to Amakusa Shiro are also displayed inside the train, allowing passengers to learn about the region's history while traveling.
Timetable for "A-TRAIN"
*The "A-TRAIN" operates a few round trips per day.
Downbound (towards Misumi) Timetable
| Stations Served | No. 1 (Example) |
|---|---|
| Departing from Kumamoto | morning |
| Departing from Uto | ― |
| Misumi Arrival | About 1 hour later |
Upbound (towards Kumamoto) Timetable
| Stations Served | No. 2 (Example) |
|---|---|
| Misumi | AM to PM |
| Departing from Uto | ― |
| Arrived in Kumamoto | About 1 hour later |
The "A-TRAIN" operates several round trips a day between Kumamoto Station and Misumi Station. At Misumi Station, the timetable is sometimes designed to allow connections with airport shuttle buses for Amakusa Airlines passengers.
Important Information Regarding Operating Days and Service Suspensions
The "A-TRAIN" operates throughout the year, but may be suspended due to regular vehicle maintenance or other reasons. In case of bad weather, service may be suspended on the Misumi Line, so it is recommended to check the service information for the day as well.
Operating Section of "A-TRAIN"
Main Sections
- Kumamoto Station to Uto Station (Kagoshima Main Line)
- Uto Station to Misumi Station (Misumi Line)
Misumi Station is the gateway to the Amakusa Islands, and high-speed ferries on the Amakusa Treasure Island Line depart from and arrive at this station. The calm scenery of the inland sea along the Uto Peninsula is one of the unique attractions of this train's windows. The Amakusa Islands are beautiful islands, sometimes called the "Aegean Sea of Japan," and are dotted with historical sites that convey the unique Christian culture, such as groups of churches. The Amakusa Islands are also known for the "Amakusa Pearl Line," which is connected by five bridges and is a popular driving route with ocean views. The Sakitsu settlement in Amakusa is a historically valuable fishing village that is also a component of the World Heritage Site "Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region and Amakusa." Sakitsu Church in Reihoku Town is known for its beautiful appearance facing the sea and is a representative photo spot for Amakusa tourism. 
Stations Served by "A-TRAIN"
Main Stops
- Kumamoto Station
- Uto Station
- Misumi Station
*Stations served may vary depending on the train.
Fares for "A-TRAIN"
Representative Section Fares
| Section | Total Fare (Adult, Estimated) | Basic Fare | Limited Express Surcharge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kumamoto Station to Misumi Station | For the latest information, please check Ekitan or the official website of the railway company. | ― | ― |
*JR Kyushu's limited express fares were revised in 2023.
Breakdown of Basic Fare and Limited Express Surcharge
The fare for the "A-TRAIN" is the sum of the basic fare and the limited express surcharge to your destination. All seats are reserved, so there are no unreserved seats. Children's fares and limited express surcharges are generally half the adult fare (rounded up to the nearest 10 yen). This train is popular not only with passengers departing from Kumamoto Station, but also with those returning to Kumamoto City after sightseeing in Amakusa.
Set Tickets to the Amakusa Area
There are sometimes set tickets available that connect Kumamoto Station and the Amakusa area. If you are traveling to the Amakusa Islands using Amakusa Airlines or a high-speed ferry, you should consider these ticket combinations. At Misumi Station, there are sometimes local guides on duty who can provide advice on sightseeing in Amakusa. Amakusa Airlines also serves destinations such as Osaka and Fukuoka, so it can be used for wider-area sightseeing in combination with Amakusa.
*Prices are subject to change.
How to Buy Tickets for "A-TRAIN"
JR Kyushu Internet Train Reservation
JR Kyushu's online train reservation service allows you to purchase limited express tickets using a credit card. Because it's a popular sightseeing train, early reservations are recommended during high season. Membership registration is free, and you can check seat availability and make reservations 24/7 from your smartphone.
Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and Midori-no-madoguchi
You can also purchase limited express tickets at designated seat ticket machines or Midori-no-madoguchi at the station.
Travel Agencies
Major travel agencies also offer tour packages that include reserved seat tickets for "A-TRAIN".
How to Buy for Foreign Tourists
"A-TRAIN" is a JR Kyushu train, so it can be used with the JAPAN RAIL PASS or JR Kyushu Rail Pass. Even when using a pass, if you wish to use a reserved seat, you will need to obtain a separate seat reservation ticket.
*The types of passes eligible and applicable conditions may change.
Is a Physical Ticket Required?
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 designated ticket vending 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?
On sections of the "A-TRAIN" service that fall within the SUGOCA area, it may be possible to use a transportation IC card for the basic fare portion of the ticket. However, the limited express surcharge portion cannot be paid using the balance on the IC card and must be purchased as a separate limited express ticket in advance.
As of July 2026, contactless payment via credit card is not widely available on the routes served by "A-TRAIN".
*Please note that you cannot ride the limited express train using only your IC card. A limited express surcharge must be purchased separately.
Seat Information for "A-TRAIN"
Seat Types (All Seats Reserved)
The "A-TRAIN" operates using a specially modified KiHa 185 series diesel railcar, and all seats are reserved. There are no unreserved seats. Seat Type Content Ordinary Car Reserved Seat Stained glass-style decorations, calm interior. Bar Counter Counter space for serving drinks, etc. Unreserved Seat None (All seats are reserved)
Distinctive Seating
The train's interior is decorated with stained-glass-like elements and rich, deep colors, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. At the bar counter, you can purchase original cocktails and other drinks while enjoying the scenery outside the window. The seats are upholstered in high-quality materials, and the combination with wood and metal parts creates a refined space. The deck area is also decorated with jazz-inspired elements, showing attention to detail. Stained-glass-like film is applied to the windows, and the way the light entering the train changes color is one of the highlights. Some trains also have a small exhibition corner on the deck area showcasing traditional crafts from Amakusa.
Large Luggage Storage Area
The train includes space for large luggage. This design takes into consideration passengers who have a lot of luggage, especially when transferring to a train bound for Amakusa.
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 office or information center in advance.
*Details of seating arrangements may vary depending on the train configuration.
Bento Boxes and In-Train Gourmet Food You Can Enjoy on the "A-TRAIN"
At the train's bar counter, you can purchase original cocktails ("A-Train Cocktails"), drinks, and light snacks. Non-alcoholic options are also available for those who prefer not to drink alcohol. If you plan to enjoy a meal, it's recommended to purchase bento boxes or other food items in advance at the bento shops around Kumamoto Station. There are also several restaurants around Misumi Station that serve seafood from Amakusa, making them a great place to stop during your layover. The bar counter sometimes features original drinks made with local Amakusa specialties, which change seasonally.
*The products available for purchase on board may change.
Points to Note When Riding the "A-TRAIN"
Since all seats on the "A-TRAIN" are reserved, it is recommended to book early if you have decided on your travel dates. If you plan to transfer to Amakusa, it is a good idea to check the connection time at Misumi Station as well. Also, if you are using Amakusa Airlines, it is advisable to check the airport shuttle bus schedule from Misumi Station along with your flight time. Amakusa Airlines operates with small aircraft, so flights may be canceled due to weather, so it is best to plan your itinerary with some leeway. The Amakusa Islands consist of multiple islands, so it is a good idea to decide on the spots you want to visit in advance and consider an efficient sightseeing route. It takes about an hour to get from Kumamoto City to Misumi Station by conventional line train, so you can easily enjoy the gateway to Amakusa even on a day trip.
While the bar counter usually accepts cash and credit cards for drinks, please check the details when you board. This train has a calm, mature atmosphere, making it especially recommended for those who want to enjoy a relaxing journey.
Summary
The "A-TRAIN" is a JR Kyushu sightseeing limited express train connecting Kumamoto Station and Misumi Station. It features a name inspired by a famous jazz song and an interior with a sophisticated, adult atmosphere. Since its launch in 2011, it has also served as a gateway to the Amakusa Islands. All seats are reserved, requiring both a basic fare ticket and a limited express surcharge. The JAPAN RAIL PASS is also accepted. Since its launch in 2011, it has become a popular adult-oriented sightseeing train representing the Kumamoto and Amakusa area. As a special space where adults can relax comfortably, it adds a touch of elegance to sightseeing in the Kumamoto and Amakusa area. For approximately one hour after departing Kumamoto Station, it offers a luxurious time to forget everyday life and immerse yourself in the romance of adult travel.
Please note that timetables, fares, and seating arrangements are subject to change. Before departure, please check the latest information on the JR Kyushu official website and enjoy your trip to Amakusa and Kumamoto on the "A-TRAIN" where you can relax and listen to jazz music playing on board.
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