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

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR Kyushu limited express train "Midori" connecting Hakata Station and Sasebo Station, including its timetable, 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 Sasebo, Kujukushima Islands, and the Arita porcelain village, 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.

"Midori" is a JR Kyushu limited express train connecting Hakata Station and Sasebo Station. As an access train to Sasebo, a major city in northwestern Kyushu, it is used for both business and tourism. Some services operate in conjunction with the limited express "Huis Ten Bosch," with the trains being split and merged at intermediate stations. The trains used are 783 series and 787 series electric trains, depending on the service. There are reserved and unreserved seats in ordinary cars, so you can choose according to your style of travel. From the windows, you can enjoy the rural scenery of the Saga Plain and the mountain scenery of Arita and Imari, home to pottery. 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 "Midori"?

"Midori" is a JR Kyushu limited express train bound for Sasebo in northwestern Kyushu. The Sasebo Line runs from Kohoku Station through Arita and Haiki to Sasebo Station. Arita, located along the line, is known as the birthplace of Japanese porcelain and is world-famous as a production center for Arita ware. After the opening of the West Kyushu Shinkansen, the "Relay Kamome" operates between Hakata and Takeo Onsen, and "Midori" also operates as a limited express train on the same section.

Train features and popular points

The appeal of the "MIDORI" train lies in its convenience, offering direct access from Hakata to Sasebo without transfers. Kujukushima is a beautiful landscape of over 200 islands of varying sizes, designated as part of the Saikai National Park. From Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort, you can enjoy a cruise around the islands on a sightseeing boat. Sasebo burgers are known as handmade hamburgers made to order. Lemon steak is a popular specialty dish originating in Sasebo. Arita is the birthplace of Japanese porcelain, and the Arita Pottery Fair is held there every spring. Takeo Onsen is a hot spring resort with a 1300-year history, symbolized by its vermilion-lacquered gate. From the train window, you can enjoy the rural scenery of the Saga Plain and the mountainous landscape around Arita. Imari is the site of the official kilns of the Nabeshima clan and is known as a production area for Imari ware. Haiki Station is where the Sasebo Line and the Omura Line diverge, and it is also a hub where trains are split and merged.

"Midori" train timetable

*The "Midori" train operates more than ten round trips per day.

Southbound (towards Sasebo Station) timetable

Timetable for northbound trains (towards Hakata Station)

The "MIDORI" 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 "Midori" train operates daily throughout the year. Some trains run in conjunction with the "Huis Ten Bosch" train, with splitting and merging occurring at intermediate stations. The area around Arita becomes extremely crowded during the Arita Ceramic Fair.

"Midori" operating section

Main sections

• Hakata Station to Tosu Station (Kagoshima Main Line)
• Tosu Station to Kohoku Station (Nagasaki Main Line)
• Kohoku Station to Sasebo Station (Sasebo Line)

Sasebo Station is the gateway to Kujukushima Islands and Sasebo city center. At Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort, you can take a sightseeing boat tour of the Kujukushima Islands. Tenkaiho is known as an observation deck that offers a panoramic view of Kujukushima Islands. Around Arita Station, there are many Arita ware kilns and galleries. The Arita Pottery Fair is held every year during Golden Week and attracts many people. The tower gate of Takeo Onsen was designed by Kingo Tatsuno, who also designed Tokyo Station, and is a nationally important cultural property. From Haiki Station, you can also transfer to trains bound for Huis Ten Bosch. As getting to the surrounding tourist attractions mainly involves taking buses or walking, it is a good idea to check local transportation options in advance. There are sometimes tourist information centers around the stations where you can obtain maps and brochures.

Stations where the "Midori" train stops

Main stops

• Hakata Station
• Tosu Station
• Saga Station
• Takeo Onsen Station
• Arita Station
• Haiki Station
• Sasebo Station

*The number of stops varies depending on the train.

"Midori" fare

Representative section fare

The basic fare is 2,420 yen. The express train surcharge is 1,800 yen for unreserved seats, 2,330 yen for reserved seats, and 4,600 yen for Green Car seats.

• Limited Express Price, Ticket and Timetable - ekitan

Breakdown of train ticket and express train fare

The fare for the "MIDORI" 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. When purchasing tickets, make sure you have both the basic fare ticket and the limited express surcharge. 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.

Combined operation with "Huis Ten Bosch"

The "Midori" train sometimes operates in conjunction with the "Huis Ten Bosch" limited express train. On these coupled trains, the train is split at stations such as Haiki Station, and each train proceeds to its respective destination. If you board the wrong car, you may end up going in a different direction than your destination, so please be careful. Be sure to check the car number and destination before boarding.

How to buy tickets for "MIDORI"

JR Kyushu Internet Reservations

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 "Midori" ticket counters

You can purchase reserved seat express train tickets at the station's reserved seat ticket vending machines or at the "MIDORI" ticket counter. 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 counter, simply tell the staff your destination and desired departure time, and they will guide you to the appropriate train. Ticket counters can get crowded during peak seasons, so it's best to go with plenty of time to spare.

travel agency

Major travel agencies offer travel packages that combine sightseeing in Sasebo and Kujukushima with train travel.

How to buy for foreign tourists

The "Midori" train is operated by JR Kyushu and 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?

Even if you purchase your tickets online, you may still need to pick up a paper ticket at a designated ticket machine at the station. You can choose your preferred method of pickup when making your reservation, so be sure to check before you board. If you choose to pick up a paper ticket, it's best to do so with plenty of time to spare, rather than right before boarding. Tickets cannot be reissued if lost, so please keep them safe during your journey.

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 the ticket. However, some sections of the Sasebo Line may be outside the IC card area. Transportation IC cards can sometimes be used across regions through 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 "Midori"

Seat type

The "MIDORI" train is operated using 783 and 787 series trains and consists of reserved and unreserved seats in ordinary cars. 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 783 series has a unique structure with a door in the center of the car body, dividing the passenger compartment into front and rear sections. The 787 series is characterized by its dignified interior, creating a calm atmosphere inside the train. The seats are equipped with a reclining function, ensuring a comfortable ride. The train cars used vary depending on the service, so there may be differences in equipment. 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 "MIDORI" train.

On the "MIDORI" train, there is no in-car sales service. If you would like to enjoy a meal, it is recommended to prepare in advance at the bento box shops or stalls at Hakata Station. Hakata Station offers a variety of bento boxes featuring Fukuoka specialties such as mentaiko (spicy cod roe) and tonkotsu ramen. Sasebo burgers and lemon steak are representative gourmet dishes of Sasebo. In Sasebo, you can also enjoy seafood dishes made with fresh fish and shellfish. Enjoying your meal in Arita ware is a unique experience only possible in a town famous for its pottery. When eating and drinking on the train, please be considerate of others by avoiding foods with strong odors to ensure a pleasant experience. 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 "Midori" train.

The "MIDORI" train sometimes operates in conjunction with the "Huis Ten Bosch" limited express train. Be sure to check which car you board, as boarding the wrong car may take you to a different destination. If you use the unreserved seats, you may not be able to find a seat during peak hours. The area around Arita becomes extremely crowded during the Arita Pottery Fair. To get to Kujukushima, you will need to take a bus from Sasebo Station. 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, if you plan to eat, be sure to prepare before boarding. Checking the train schedule on a site like Ekitan before boarding will help you calmly deal with delays or cancellations.

summary

"Midori" is a JR Kyushu limited express train connecting Hakata Station and Sasebo Station. It is used as an access train to the spectacular scenery of Kujukushima Islands, Sasebo's gourmet food, and the Arita porcelain village. Some services are coupled with the limited express "Huis Ten Bosch," so be sure to check which car you will be boarding.

Enjoy a journey through northwestern Kyushu aboard the "MIDORI" train, which heads to the islands of Saikai and the pottery villages.

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.