Limited Express "KIRAMEKI" Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets

This article provides a comprehensive overview of JR Kyushu's "KIRAMEKI" limited express train, which connects Hakata Station to Kokura and Mojiko stations. It includes timetables, fares for representative sections, stations served, seating information, how to buy tickets, whether ticket issuance is required, and IC card compatibility. As it serves as an access train between Kokura/Mojiko and Kitakyushu, 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.
"KIRAMEKI" is a JR Kyushu limited express train connecting Hakata Station with Kokura Station and Mojiko Station via the Kagoshima Main Line. It is a limited express train connecting Fukuoka and Kitakyushu, two major cities in Fukuoka Prefecture. It mainly operates during the morning and evening hours and is a popular train for commuters and business travelers. The trains used are 787 series and 883 series, and vary depending on the service. There are unreserved seats, so you can easily board without a reservation. There are also direct services to Mojiko Station, making it convenient for sightseeing in Mojiko Retro. Since there are trains with similar names and destinations, it is recommended to check the train name and destination on the departure information display before boarding.

What is "KIRAMEKI"?

"KIRAMEKI" is a JR Kyushu limited express train that handles intercity transportation within Fukuoka Prefecture. The Kagoshima Main Line is a major artery of Kyushu, running from Mojiko Station through Hakata to Kagoshima. Kokura is a Shinkansen (bullet train) stop and serves as a gateway to Kyushu. Mojiko was a thriving international trading port from the Meiji era to the early Showa era. The Mojiko Station building is designated as a National Important Cultural Property.

Train Features and Popular Points

The appeal of the "KIRAMEKI" train lies in its speed, connecting Hakata and Kokura in approximately 50 minutes. Since there are unreserved seats, it can accommodate spontaneous travel plans. The Mojiko Retro district retains Western-style architecture from the Taisho era. The Mojiko Station building is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Kokura Castle is a symbol of Kitakyushu. The Kanmon Strait separates Honshu and Kyushu. The Kanmon Tunnel pedestrian walkway allows travel between Honshu and Kyushu on foot. The 787 series is a limited express train characterized by its dignified interior. Checking the stops and travel time before boarding makes it easier to plan itineraries that include stopovers. The scenery outside the window changes greatly depending on the season, so choosing the time of year to suit your purpose is recommended. Kitakyushu has a history of developing as an industrial city. The Kanmon Strait has long been a vital point for maritime traffic.

"KIRAMEKI" Timetable

Downbound Timetable (Towards Kokura Station)

Upbound Timetable (Towards Hakata Station)

The "KIRAMEKI" train operates more than ten round trips a day, mainly in the morning and evening. 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 hours, while the intervals 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 Fare, Ticket and Timetable - Ekitan

Important Notes on Operating Days and Service Suspensions

The "KIRAMEKI" train operates mainly during the morning and evening hours. Direct services to Mojiko Station are limited. The type of train used varies depending on the service.

"KIRAMEKI" Operating Section

Main Operating Sections

• Hakata Station to Kashii Station (Kagoshima Main Line)
• Kashii Station to Orio Station (Kagoshima Main Line)
• Orio Station to Kokura Station/Mojiko Station (Kagoshima Main Line)

Mojiko Station is the gateway to the Mojiko Retro district. The station building dates back to the Taisho era and is a nationally designated Important Cultural Property. The Mojiko Retro district retains Western-style architecture, making it a pleasant place to stroll around. At the Kanmon Strait Museum, you can learn about the history of the strait. Kokura Castle is a symbol of Kitakyushu. Kokura's Tanga Market is a popular local food market. In Mojiko, baked curry is a well-known local delicacy. As getting to nearby tourist attractions mainly involves buses and walking, it's a good idea to check local transportation options beforehand. There are often tourist information centers around the station where you can obtain maps and brochures. For lines with limited service, it's wise to check the return train and bus schedules as well. Yahata Higashi Ward is home to facilities related to the government-owned Yawata Steel Works, a World Heritage Site.

"KIRAMEKI" Stations Served

Main Stations Served

• Hakata Station
• Orio Station
• Kurosaki Station
• Kokura Station
• Mojiko Station

"KIRAMEKI" Fares

Representative Section Fares

Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Limited Express Surcharge

The fare for the "KIRAMEKI" 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 regular 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; you must purchase both.

Comparison with Shinkansen

You can also travel between Hakata and Kokura on the Sanyo Shinkansen. The Shinkansen connects the two locations in about 20 minutes, so if time is your priority, the Shinkansen is the most convenient option. The "KIRAMEKI" train runs on conventional lines, so the journey takes longer, but the fare is cheaper. If you are heading towards Mojiko, the direct "KIRAMEKI" service is the most convenient.

How to Buy Tickets for "KIRAMEKI"

JR Kyushu Online Reservation Service

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 Vending Machines and Ticket Offices

You can purchase reserved seat limited express tickets at the station's reserved seat ticket vending machines or at the Midori-no-Madoguchi (ticket office). If you wish to use an unreserved seat, you only need to purchase a regular train ticket and an unreserved limited express 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 Agencies

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

For International Visitors

"KIRAMEKI" 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 want to use a reserved seat, you will need to obtain a separate seat reservation ticket. Unreserved seats can be used with the pass alone. Some station ticket offices 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 office before boarding.

Can I Use Contactless Payment with an IC Card or Credit Card?

Since the operating section is within the SUGOCA area, you can use a transportation IC card for the fare portion. 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 area.

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

Seating Information for "KIRAMEKI"

Seat Types

The "KIRAMEKI" train is operated using 787 series and 883 series trains, 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. If you want to sit together with your travel companions, booking together makes it easier to secure adjacent seats. 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.

Unique Seating Features

The 787 series is a limited express train characterized by its luxurious interior. The 883 series is known for its uniquely designed seats. The seats are equipped with a reclining function, providing a comfortable ride. The train cars used vary depending on the service, so there may be differences in facilities. 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 if you want to enjoy the scenery, while aisle seats are suitable if you 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.

Luggage Storage

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.

Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and Onboard Dining on the "KIRAMEKI" Train

On the "KIRAMEKI" train, there is no onboard sales service. It is recommended to purchase drinks and snacks at a shop at Hakata Station before boarding. In Hakata, mentaiko (spicy cod roe) and tonkotsu ramen are well-known local specialties. In Mojiko, baked curry is a local delicacy. Since station shops may have limited operating hours, it is best to stop by early. There is a wide variety of ekiben (station bento boxes), so it is fun to take some time to choose one before boarding. Some stations along the line have shops selling local specialties. 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 at the station after disembarking.

Important Notes for Riding the "KIRAMEKI"

The "KIRAMEKI" train operates mainly during the morning and evening hours, so there are fewer trains during the daytime. Direct trains to Mojiko Station are limited, so be sure to check your destination. If you use the unreserved seats, you may not be able to find a seat during peak hours. You can also travel between Hakata and Kokura by Shinkansen, so choose the option that suits your purpose. The type of train used varies depending on the service. During peak seasons, both stations and trains can be crowded, so allow plenty of time. Before boarding, be sure to check the train name, car number, and seat number printed on your ticket. If you are bringing large luggage, please use the luggage racks or overhead compartments to avoid blocking 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

"KIRAMEKI" is a JR Kyushu limited express train connecting Hakata Station with Kokura Station and Mojiko Station. It connects Fukuoka and Kitakyushu, and is convenient for sightseeing in Mojiko Retro. It also has unreserved seating, making it an easily accessible limited express train.

Enjoy your trip to Kitakyushu aboard the retro port town-themed train, "KIRAMEKI."

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.