Timetable, fares, and ticket purchasing information for the limited express train "Kasasagi"

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR Kyushu limited express train "Kasasagi," which connects Hakata Station and Hizen-Kashima Station. It includes timetables, fares for representative sections, stations served, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. As it serves as an access train to the Saga Plain and the Ariake Sea, 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.

The "Kasasagi" is a JR Kyushu limited express train connecting Hakata Station and Hizen-Kashima Station. It was introduced to coincide with the opening of the West Kyushu Shinkansen. The train's name comes from the magpie, the prefectural bird of Saga Prefecture. The train uses various rolling stock, including the 787 series and 885 series, depending on the service. Since there are unreserved seats, you can easily board without a reservation. It plays a vital role as a local transportation linking major cities within Saga Prefecture. There are several trains with similar names and destinations, so it's a good idea to check the departure information display for the correct train name and destination before boarding.

What is a "magpie"?

"KASASAGI" is a JR Kyushu limited express train named after the magpie, the prefectural bird of Saga Prefecture. The magpie is a bird that mainly inhabits the Saga Plain and is designated as a national natural monument. The Nagasaki Main Line is a railway line that runs from Tosu Station through Saga to Nagasaki. With the opening of the West Kyushu Shinkansen, the limited express train system on this section was revised. Hizen-Kashima is a town facing the Ariake Sea.

Train features and popular points

The appeal of the "Kasasagi" train lies in its direct access from Hakata to Saga and Hizen-Kashima without transfers. Since it has unreserved seating, it can accommodate spontaneous travel plans. Yutoku Inari Shrine is one of Japan's three major Inari shrines. Yutoku Inari Shrine can be accessed by bus from Hizen-Kashima Station. Saga boasts attractions such as the Yoshinogari Ruins and the Saga Castle Honmaru History Museum. The Ariake Sea is a unique sea with extensive tidal flats. Mudskippers are known to inhabit the tidal flats of the Ariake Sea. Kashima is also known as a town with many sake breweries. Checking the stops and travel times before boarding makes it easier to plan an itinerary that includes stops along the way. The scenery outside the window changes significantly depending on the season, so choosing the time of year to suit your purpose is recommended. The Saga Plain is a vast agricultural area facing the Ariake Sea.

"Kasasagi" train timetable

Downbound (towards Hizen-Kashima Station) timetable

Timetable for northbound trains (towards Hakata Station)

The "Kasasagi" train operates more than ten round trips a day. Since the schedule may change depending on the season and timetable revisions, it's best to check the latest schedule on the Ekitan website before boarding. There are more trains during the morning and evening rush hours, while the intervals between trains may be longer during the daytime. If you have connecting trains or buses, it's advisable to choose connections that allow ample time before your arrival.

• Limited Express Price, Ticket and Timetable - ekitan

Important information regarding operating days and days when the service is suspended.

The "Kasasagi" train operates throughout the year. Since the operating section, stops, and rolling stock vary depending on the train, please check the timetable and train composition for your desired travel date.

"Kasasagi" operating section

Main sections

• Hakata Station to Tosu Station (Kagoshima Main Line)
• Tosu Station to Saga Station (Nagasaki Main Line)
• Saga Station to Hizen-Kashima Station (Nagasaki Main Line)

Hizen-Kashima Station is the gateway to Yutoku Inari Shrine, one of Japan's three major Inari shrines. Kashima is also known as a town with many sake breweries. Events such as the Gatalympics are held on the tidal flats of the Ariake Sea. You can learn about the history of the Saga Domain at the Saga Castle Honmaru History Museum. A Yayoi period moated settlement has been restored at Yoshinogari Historical Park. Saga is famous for its Saga beef and fresh squid sashimi. Getting to nearby tourist spots is mainly done by bus or on foot, so it's a good idea to check local transportation options in advance. There are often tourist information centers around the station where you can get maps and brochures. For lines with limited service, it's reassuring to check the return train and bus schedules as well. Sake brewery tourism is offered on Kashima's sake brewery street. The tidal flats of the Ariake Sea nurture a unique ecosystem.

Stations where the "Kasasagi" train stops

Main stops

• Hakata Station
• Tosu Station
• Shin-Tosu Station
• Saga Station
• Hizen-Kashima Station

The price of "Kasasagi (KASASAGI)"

Representative section fare

Breakdown of train ticket and express train fare

The fare for the "Kasasagi" train is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the limited express surcharge. The limited express surcharge differs between reserved and unreserved seats, with reserved seats being slightly more expensive. If you use a Green Car, you will need to pay the Green Car surcharge in addition to the limited express fare. When purchasing tickets, make sure you have both the basic fare ticket and the limited express ticket. JR's limited express surcharges are set according to the distance traveled, and the amount may vary depending on whether it is a normal season, peak season, or off-peak season. The fare is divided into the "basic fare" for the journey to your destination and the "limited express surcharge" for riding the limited express train. Note that you cannot ride the limited express train with just a basic fare ticket, as you must purchase both.

Differences from "Relay Kamome"

Between Hakata and Saga, there are two trains operating: the "Kasasagi" and the "Relay Kamome." The "Relay Kamome" connects to the West Kyushu Shinkansen at Takeo-Onsen Station. The "Kasasagi" is a train bound for Saga and Hizen-Kashima. If you are going towards Nagasaki, use the "Relay Kamome," and if you are going towards Hizen-Kashima, use the "Kasasagi."

How to buy tickets for "Kasasagi"

JR Kyushu Internet Train Reservation

JR Kyushu's online reservation service allows you to purchase reserved seats using a credit card. Reserved seats go on sale one month prior to the travel date at 10:00 AM. Discount tickets may be available exclusively through online reservations. When making a reservation, you specify the travel date, route, train name, and number of passengers, and then select your seats. In addition to credit cards, cash is also accepted depending on the purchase method. Changes and refunds after reservation are subject to conditions and fees.

Reserved seat ticket machines and ticket counters

You can purchase reserved seat express train tickets at the station's reserved seat ticket vending machines or at the Midori-no-Madoguchi (ticket office). If you wish to use a non-reserved seat, you only need to purchase a regular train ticket and a non-reserved express train ticket. Ticket vending machines often support multiple languages, making them easy to use even if you don't understand Japanese. At the ticket office, simply tell the staff your destination and desired departure time, and they will guide you to the appropriate train. Ticket offices can get crowded during peak seasons, so it's best to go with plenty of time to spare.

travel agency

Major travel agencies may offer travel packages that combine sightseeing in the Saga area with train travel.

How to buy for foreign tourists

The "Kasasagi" train is operated by JR Kyushu, so it can be used with the JAPAN RAIL PASS or JR Kyushu Rail Pass. Even when using a pass, you will need to obtain a separate seat reservation ticket if you wish to use a reserved seat. Unreserved seats can be used with the pass alone. Some station ticket counters offer information in foreign languages. Special tickets for international tourists may have limited purchase conditions and sales locations, so it is advisable to check before traveling.

Do I need to get a physical ticket?

Tickets purchased through online reservations may require you to pick up a paper ticket. Please check the reservation completion screen to see if you are eligible for a ticketless product and to see how to receive your ticket. If you need to pick up a paper ticket, please complete the procedure at a designated ticket machine or ticket counter before boarding.

Can I use contactless payment with an IC card or credit card?

In the SUGOCA area around Fukuoka and Saga prefectures, you can use a transportation IC card for the fare portion of your ticket. Transportation IC cards can sometimes be used across regions due to the nationwide interoperability service. However, the usable area is determined by each railway company, so be sure to check in advance whether your journey is within their service area.

Contactless payment via credit card is not available for boarding at ticket gates.

Seating information for "Kasasagi"

Seat type

The "Kasasagi" train is operated using 787 series and 885 series rolling stock, and consists of reserved seats, unreserved seats, and Green Car seats. During peak seasons, seats fill up quickly, so it's best to book early once your travel dates are decided. When booking, you may be able to choose between window and aisle seats. If you want to sit together with your travel companions, booking together makes it easier to secure adjacent seats.

Distinctive seating

The 787 series is a limited express train characterized by its luxurious interior. The 885 series offers a high-quality travel space with leather seats and wood-grain interiors. The seats are equipped with a reclining function for a comfortable ride. The train cars used vary depending on the service, so there may be differences in equipment. The scenery you see will change depending on the direction of travel, so it is a good idea to check the seat location when making a reservation. Window seats are suitable for those who want to enjoy the scenery, while aisle seats are suitable for those who prioritize ease of boarding and alighting. For long journeys, it is recommended to check the seat location in advance and make a reservation for a more comfortable experience.

Large luggage storage area

Luggage racks may be provided at the ends of the train cars.

Barrier-free facilities

Wheelchair-accessible seating is available within the train. If you wish to use it, we recommend contacting a JR Kyushu ticket office in advance. Multipurpose rooms and wheelchair-accessible facilities may vary depending on the train car and train set.

Enjoy ekiben (station bento boxes) and in-train gourmet food on the "Kasasagi" train.

On the "KASASAGI" train, there is no onboard sales service. It is recommended to purchase drinks and snacks at a shop at Hakata Station before boarding. Saga Prefecture is famous for its Saga beef and fresh squid sashimi. The Ariake Sea is known for its unique fish such as mudskippers and warasubo. Since the shop at the station may have limited operating hours, it is best to stop by early. There is a wide variety of bento boxes available, so it is fun to take some time to choose one before boarding. If you eat or drink on the train, please be considerate of others by avoiding foods with strong odors. Dispose of empty containers and trash in the trash cans on the train or in the trash cans at the station after disembarking.

Points to note when riding the "Kasasagi" train.

If you use the unreserved seats on the "Kasasagi" train, you may not be able to find a seat during peak hours. The destinations are different from the "Relay Kamome," so be sure to check which train you are taking. If you are heading towards Nagasaki, you will use the "Relay Kamome" and the West Kyushu Shinkansen. To get to Yutoku Inari Shrine, you will need to take a bus from Hizen-Kashima Station. The type of train used varies depending on the service. During peak seasons, both the stations and trains can be crowded, so be sure to allow plenty of time. Before boarding, be sure to check the train name, car number, and seat number written on your ticket. If you are bringing large luggage, please use the luggage racks or overhead compartments so as not to block the aisle. Onboard, it is good manners to keep phone calls to a minimum so as not to disturb other passengers.

Since there is no onboard service, be sure to prepare drinks and snacks before boarding. It's also a good idea to check the train schedule for the day on Ekitan or the railway company's official website before boarding.

summary

The "Kasasagi" is a JR Kyushu limited express train connecting Hakata Station and Hizen-Kashima Station. It was introduced to coincide with the opening of the West Kyushu Shinkansen, connecting major cities within Saga Prefecture. It is used as transportation for trips to places like Yutoku Inari Shrine and the Ariake Sea.

Enjoy a journey across the Saga Plain and the Ariake Sea aboard the "KASASAGI," named after Saga Prefecture's prefectural bird.

Ekitan Travel Media Editorial Department

The Ekitan Travel Media editorial team provides information on transportation in Japan, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), regular trains, intercity travel, and access to tourist destinations. We also offer easy-to-understand travel information for international visitors to Japan.
This article is published by Ekitan Co., Ltd., the provider of the train transfer information service "Ekitan," and is based on Japanese railway and transportation information. Ekitan's website and app are used by over 10 million users per month.