Timetable, Fares, and Ticket Purchasing Information for "TWO STARS 4047"
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR Kyushu sightseeing limited express train "TWO STARS 4047," which connects Takeo Onsen Station in Saga Prefecture and Nagasaki Station. It includes timetables, fares for representative sections, stations, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. This sightseeing train debuted in conjunction with the opening of the West Kyushu Shinkansen, and this article summarizes key points to check 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.
"TWO STARS 4047" is a sightseeing limited express train connecting Takeo Onsen Station and Nagasaki Station, which debuted in September 2022 to coincide with the opening of the West Kyushu Shinkansen. The "4047" in the train name comes from the KiHa 40 and 47 series trains used. It is operated with a specially modified KiHa 40 and 47 series diesel railcar train set, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenery along the Ariake Sea and Omura Bay, as well as the attractions of the areas along the route in Saga and Nagasaki. All seats are reserved, so a basic fare ticket and a reserved seat limited express ticket are required to board. It is easy to use in combination with the West Kyushu Shinkansen and is a popular sightseeing route for touring the Saga and Nagasaki areas. The interior design incorporates the traditions and regional characteristics of both prefectures, and the second car has a shared space called "Lounge 40". Item Content Train Name "TWO STARS 4047" Operating Company JR Kyushu Main Operating Sections Takeo Onsen Station to Nagasaki Station (via JR Sasebo Line, JR Nagasaki Main Line, and JR Omura Line) Main Starting and Ending Stations Takeo Onsen Station / Nagasaki Station Number of Trains Running Limited Operating Days Estimated Travel Time Varies depending on the course. Seat Ordinary Car Reserved Seats (All Seats Reserved) 
Table of Contents
- What is "TWO STARS 4047"?
- Timetable for "TWO STARS 4047"
- Operating Sections of "TWO STARS 4047"
- Stations Where "TWO STARS 4047" Stops
- Fares for "TWO STARS 4047"
- How to Buy Tickets for "TWO STARS 4047"
- Is a Physical Ticket Required?
- Can IC Cards or Credit Card Contactless Payments Be Used?
- Seating Information for "TWO STARS 4047"
- Enjoy Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and Onboard Gourmet Food on "TWO STARS 4047"
- Important Notes When Riding "TWO STARS 4047"
- Summary
What is "TWO STARS 4047"?
"TWO STARS 4047" is a JR Kyushu sightseeing limited express train that debuted on September 23, 2022, to coincide with the opening of the West Kyushu Shinkansen. It operates between Takeo Onsen Station and Nagasaki Station, with morning services following different routes, mainly along the Ariake Sea, and afternoon services along Omura Bay. The train uses a three-car formation converted from KiHa 40 and 47 series diesel railcars, and features a calm interior incorporating wood. By combining it with the West Kyushu Shinkansen "Kamome," you can create an itinerary that allows you to enjoy both the Shinkansen and the sightseeing limited express train.
Train Features and Popular Points
The appeal of "TWO STARS 4047" lies in the scenic views of two seas—the Ariake Sea and Omura Bay—from the train windows, and the opportunity to leisurely enjoy the tourist destinations along the route, such as Ureshino Onsen, Huis Ten Bosch, and Omura. Onboard, a meal plan featuring local ingredients (reservations required) is offered, adding to the enjoyment of the trip. Its ability to efficiently tour the Saga and Nagasaki areas in conjunction with the West Kyushu Shinkansen is another attractive feature. Onboard attendants provide commentary along the route, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience even for those visiting unfamiliar areas. Around Ureshino Onsen Station, a popular tourist activity is visiting the hot springs of Ureshino Onsen, known as one of Japan's three best hot springs for beautiful skin. Combining this with a trip to Huis Ten Bosch allows you to enjoy both a theme park and a sightseeing train in one day. Onboard attendants sometimes provide commentary in the Saga and Nagasaki dialects, creating a unique and memorable regional hospitality experience.
Timetable for "TWO STARS 4047"
*"TWO STARS 4047" may have limited operating days.
Southbound (towards Nagasaki) Timetable
| Stations | "TWO STARS 4047" Train (Example) |
|---|---|
| Takeo Onsen Departure | Morning |
| Ureshino Onsen Departure | ― |
| Omura Departure | ― |
| Nagasaki Arrival | Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes later |
Timetable for Northbound Trains (towards Takeo Onsen)
| Stations | "TWO STARS 4047" Train (Example) |
|---|---|
| Nagasaki Departure | Afternoon |
| Omura Departure | ― |
| Ureshino Onsen Departure | ― |
| Takeo Onsen Arrival | Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes later |
"TWO STARS 4047" operates approximately one to two round trips per day between Takeo Onsen Station and Nagasaki Station. The timetable at Takeo Onsen Station is designed to allow for connections with the West Kyushu Shinkansen "Kamome," making transfers from the Hakata area smooth.
Important Information Regarding Operating Days and Service Suspensions
The "TWO STARS 4047" train may be suspended due to scheduled vehicle maintenance or other reasons. In case of bad weather, train service may be suspended on the JR Omura Line and JR Nagasaki Main Line, so it is recommended to check the train service information for the day as well.
Operating Sections of "TWO STARS 4047"
Main Sections
- Takeo Onsen Station to Haiki Station (JR Sasebo Line)
- Haiki Station to Isahaya Station (JR Omura Line)
- Isahaya Station to Nagasaki Station (JR Nagasaki Main Line)
Nagasaki Station is a hub for Nagasaki sightseeing, including attractions like Glover Garden and Oura Church. Takeo Onsen Station is the starting station for the West Kyushu Shinkansen and is also known as the gateway to Ureshino Onsen. On the JR Omura Line section, you can enjoy the calm sea scenery along Omura Bay. Omura Bay on the JR Omura Line section is a calm inland sea also known as "Koto no Umi" (Sea of the Koto), and you can enjoy its tranquil surface from the train window. Ureshino Onsen is known nationwide for its hot springs that are good for the skin, and there are several day-trip bathing facilities and footbaths around the station. Omura Park is located near Omura Station, and you can also enjoy strolling around the ruins of Kushima Castle, which is known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot.
Stations Where "TWO STARS 4047" Stops
Main Stations
- Takeo Onsen Station
- Ureshino Onsen Station
- Haiki Station
- Huis Ten Bosch Station (some trains)
- Omura Station
- Isahaya Station
- Nagasaki Station
*The stations where the train stops may vary depending on the day of operation.
Fares for "TWO STARS 4047"
Representative Section Fare
| Section | Total Fare (Adult, Regular Season) | Basic Fare | Reserved Seat Limited Express Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Takeo Onsen Station → Nagasaki Station | 4,960 yen | 2,130 yen | 2,830 yen |
| Nagasaki Station → Takeo Onsen Station | 5,250 yen | 2,420 yen | 2,830 yen |
Reserved seat limited express fares may vary depending on the date of travel.
*"TWO STARS 4047" is an all-reserved-seat express train. A basic fare ticket and a reserved seat limited express ticket are required to board, and additional charges apply for pre-ordered items such as meals and sweets.
Breakdown of Basic Fare and Reserved Seat Fare
The fare for "TWO STARS 4047" is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the reserved seat express surcharge. All seats are reserved; there are no unreserved seats. Children's fares and reserved seat express surcharges are generally half the adult fare. Since the routes and travel times differ between morning and afternoon services, please check your travel section and the service you wish to use before making a reservation.
Meal Plan Reservations
Some trains offer meal plans (lunch, sweets, etc.) that require advance reservations. If you wish to use a meal plan, it is recommended that you make the reservation early, along with your train ticket reservation. On the JR Omura Line section, if you take an evening train, you may be able to see the sunset over Omura Bay from the train window. Ureshino Onsen Station is a relatively new station, having been newly established in 2022, and the station building itself is attracting attention as a tourist attraction.
*Fares are subject to change.
How to Buy Tickets for "TWO STARS 4047"
JR Kyushu Online Train Reservation
JR Kyushu's online train reservation service allows you to purchase reserved seat tickets using a credit card. Because it's a popular sightseeing train, tickets often sell out immediately after going on sale, so early booking is recommended.
Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and Midori-no-madoguchi
You can also purchase reserved seat tickets at the ticket vending machines or Midori-no-madoguchi at the station.
Travel Agencies
Major travel agencies also offer tour packages that include reserved seat tickets and meal plans for the "TWO STARS 4047" train.
How to Purchase for International Visitors
"TWO STARS 4047" is a JR Kyushu limited express train. Even when using the JAPAN RAIL PASS or eligible JR Kyushu Rail Passes, please reserve a seat in the ordinary car before boarding. In principle, no additional limited express fare is required for riding in an ordinary car reserved seat if you meet the conditions of the eligible pass. Pre-ordered items such as meals and sweets are not included in the pass.
*The types of passes eligible and the 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 IC Cards or Credit Card Contactless Payments Be Used?
For the section of the "TWO STARS 4047" train line that falls within the SUGOCA area, it may be possible to use a transportation IC card for the basic fare portion. However, the reserved 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 on the routes served by "TWO STARS 4047".
*Please note that you cannot board using only your IC card. A separate reserved seat fare must be purchased.
Seating Information for "TWO STARS 4047"
Seat Types (All Seats Reserved)
"TWO STARS 4047" is operated using a specially modified KiHa 47 series diesel railcar, and all seats are reserved. There are no unreserved seats.
| Seat Type | Content |
|---|---|
| Ordinary Car Reserved Seat | Interior design with extensive use of wood, standard seating arrangement. |
| Counter Seats | A counter space where you can relax while looking out the window. |
| Unreserved Seat | None (All Seats Reserved) |
Unique Seating Features
The train's interior features a calm, wood-grain design, incorporating traditional crafts and local materials from Saga and Nagasaki prefectures throughout. There are counter seats overlooking the Ariake Sea and Omura Bay, allowing passengers to relax and enjoy the scenery. Some train sets have seats facing the Ariake Sea and Omura Bay, further enhancing the scenic views. The train also incorporates tableware and decorations made by local potters, giving it the feel of a moving art museum. Some seats are box-type with tables, allowing groups to enjoy conversations while traveling.
Large Luggage Space
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 office or information center in advance.
*Details of seating arrangements may vary depending on the train configuration.
Enjoy Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and Onboard Gourmet Food on "TWO STARS 4047"
"TWO STARS 4047" offers pre-booked meal plans (lunch, sweets, etc.) featuring ingredients from Saga and Nagasaki prefectures. 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 windows. The onboard service, including Ureshino tea and drinks served in Arita ware cups, is another appealing aspect, showcasing the region's unique character.
*The contents and availability of meal plans may vary depending on the season.
Important Notes When Riding "TWO STARS 4047"
Since all seats on "TWO STARS 4047" are reserved, it is recommended to book early if you have decided on your travel dates. As it is a popular sightseeing train, tickets may be fully booked immediately after going on sale during high season. Also, if you plan to stop by Ureshino Onsen for sightseeing, it is a good idea to check the time of the next train as well. After arriving in Nagasaki, you can easily access major tourist attractions such as Glover Garden and Chinatown using the streetcar. Both Ureshino Onsen and Takeo Onsen have plenty of day-trip hot spring facilities, so a stopover is also recommended.
If you wish to book a meal plan, you will need to make arrangements early, along with your train ticket reservation. If you are planning to transfer to the West Kyushu Shinkansen, it is also a good idea to check the connection time at Takeo Onsen Station.
Summary
"TWO STARS 4047" is a JR Kyushu sightseeing limited express train with all reserved seats, connecting Takeo Onsen Station and Nagasaki Station. It runs on different routes in the morning and afternoon, offering passengers the scenic views of the Ariake Sea and Omura Bay, as well as the food and local culture of Saga and Nagasaki prefectures. A basic fare ticket and a reserved seat limited express ticket are required to ride. Combining it with the West Kyushu Shinkansen "Kamome" allows you to plan a West Kyushu trip where the journey itself becomes a sightseeing experience.
Please be sure to check the latest information on the JR Kyushu official website before departure, as operating days, timetables, and fares are subject to change. Enjoy "TWO STARS 4047," which allows you to tour the Saga and Nagasaki areas in conjunction with the West Kyushu Shinkansen.
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