Timetable, Fares, and Ticket Purchasing Information for the Limited Express "RELAY KAMOME"

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR Kyushu Limited Express "RELAY KAMOME," which connects Hakata Station and Takeo Onsen Station. It includes timetables, fares for representative sections, stopping stations, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. This train is used for connecting to the West Kyushu Shinkansen and as an access train to Saga, and we've compiled 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 "RELAY KAMOME" is a JR Kyushu Limited Express train connecting Hakata Station and Takeo Onsen Station. It operates as a connecting train to the West Kyushu Shinkansen Kamome, which opened in September 2022. At Takeo Onsen Station, a cross-platform transfer system is in place where the Shinkansen and conventional limited express trains stop on opposite sides of the same platform. This system allows for smooth travel from Hakata to Nagasaki with just one transfer. The train sets used are 787 series and 885 series electric trains, and vary by service. Since there are unreserved seats, you can easily board without a reservation. 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 "RELAY KAMOME"?

The "RELAY KAMOME" is a JR Kyushu Limited Express train that connects to the West Kyushu Shinkansen Kamome. The West Kyushu Shinkansen connects Takeo Onsen Station and Nagasaki Station and opened in September 2022. The section between Hakata and Takeo Onsen remains a conventional line, and the "RELAY KAMOME" handles that section. At Takeo Onsen Station, a cross-platform transfer system is in place where the Shinkansen and conventional limited express trains stop on opposite sides of the same platform. This system allows passengers to transfer in just a few dozen steps without having to go up or down stairs.

Train Features and Popular Points

The appeal of the "RELAY KAMOME" lies in its smooth transfer to the West Kyushu Shinkansen. The cross-platform transfer at Takeo Onsen Station makes it easy to transfer even with a lot of luggage. With over 20 round trips per day, it operates frequently and has a convenient timetable. The 885 series features a white body and a high-quality interior using wood and leather. The 787 series is a limited express train characterized by its dignified interior. Takeo Onsen is a hot spring resort with a 1300-year history, symbolized by its vermilion-lacquered gate. The gate of Takeo Onsen was designed by Kingo Tatsuno, who also designed Tokyo Station, and is a nationally important cultural property. From Saga Station, you can also access Yoshinogari Historical Park and the Ariake Sea area. Checking the stopping stations and travel time before boarding makes it easier to plan an itinerary that includes stopovers. Since the scenery from the window changes greatly depending on the season and time of day, it's recommended to choose different times for your outbound and return journeys.

"RELAY KAMOME" Timetable

*The "RELAY KAMOME" operates more than 20 round trips per day.

Downbound (towards Takeo Onsen Station) Timetable

Timetable for Northbound Trains (towards Hakata Station)

The "RELAY KAMOME" operates more than 20 round trips per day. Since times may change depending on the season and schedule revisions, it's best to check the latest timetable on the Ekitan website before boarding. There are more trains during the morning and evening rush hours, while there may be longer intervals between trains during the day. 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 "RELAY KAMOME" operates daily throughout the year. Its schedule is designed to connect with the West Kyushu Shinkansen Kamome. The type of train used varies depending on the service.

Operating Sections of "RELAY KAMOME"

Main Sections

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

Takeo Onsen Station is a transfer station for the West Kyushu Shinkansen and the gateway to Takeo Onsen. The main gate and new building of Takeo Onsen are designated as important national cultural properties. The Takeo City Library is a facility that has attracted attention for its open space design. Mifuneyama Rakuen is a garden that is beautiful with seasonal flowers and autumn leaves. There are attractions around Saga Station, such as the Saga Castle Honmaru History Museum. Yoshinogari Historical Park has a reconstructed Yayoi period moated settlement. Arita and Ureshino Onsen can be accessed by transferring from Takeo Onsen Station. As getting to the surrounding tourist spots mainly involves buses and walking, it is a good idea to check the local transportation options in advance. There may be a tourist information center around the station where you can get maps and brochures.

Stopping Stations for "RELAY KAMOME"

Main Stopping Stations

• Hakata Station
• Tosu Station
• Shin-Tosu Station
• Saga Station
• Takeo Onsen Station

*The stopping stations vary by service.

"RELAY KAMOME" Fares

Fares for Representative Sections

Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Limited Express Surcharge

The fare for the "RELAY KAMOME" 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 transferring to the West Kyushu Shinkansen, a through fare system is in place. 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, high season, or low 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 with just a basic fare ticket; you must purchase both.

Transfer to the West Kyushu Shinkansen

When transferring between the "RELAY KAMOME" and the West Kyushu Shinkansen Kamome, purchasing a through ticket will save you money. At Takeo Onsen Station, the Shinkansen will be parked on the opposite side of the same platform, allowing for a smooth transfer. The transfer time is set at only a few minutes, making it easy to switch trains. Since purchasing tickets separately may be more expensive, purchasing a through ticket is recommended.

How to Buy Tickets for "RELAY KAMOME"

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. You can also book connections with Shinkansen trains together. 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 booking are subject to certain conditions and fees.

 

 

Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and Ticket Offices

You can purchase Limited Express Reserved Seat 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 basic fare 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 high seasons, so it's best to go with plenty of time to spare.

Travel Agencies

Major travel agencies offer travel packages that combine accommodation and train travel in the Nagasaki and Saga areas.

How to Purchase for Foreign Tourists

The "RELAY KAMOME" 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 just the pass. 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?

Even if you purchase your tickets online, you may still need to pick up a paper ticket at a designated ticket vending machine at the station. If you need 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 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 "RELAY KAMOME"

Seat Types

The "RELAY KAMOME" train is operated using 787 series and 885 series electric trains and consists of Ordinary Car Reserved Seats, Unreserved Seats, and Green Car. During high 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 885 series offers a high-quality travel experience with its leather seats and wood-grained interior. The 787 series features a dignified interior, creating a calm and sophisticated atmosphere. The seats are equipped with reclining functions for a comfortable ride. The train cars used vary depending on the service, so there may be differences in amenities. 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.

 

 

Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and In-Train Dining on "RELAY KAMOME"

There is no in-car sales service on the "RELAY KAMOME" train. 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. In Saga, Saga beef and fresh squid sashimi are well-known specialties. If you travel as far as Nagasaki, you can enjoy champon and sara udon. Since the shops inside the station may have limited operating hours, it is best to prepare in advance if you are traveling early in the morning or late at night. 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 "RELAY KAMOME"

The "RELAY KAMOME" is a train that connects to the West Kyushu Shinkansen at Takeo Onsen Station. The transfer time is only a few minutes, so it's best to prepare to disembark early. Buying tickets separately may be more expensive, so it is recommended to buy a through ticket. If you use the unreserved seats, you may not be able to find a seat during peak times. The type of train used varies depending on the service. 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 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, 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

The "RELAY KAMOME" is a JR Kyushu Limited Express train connecting Hakata Station and Takeo Onsen Station. It connects to the West Kyushu Shinkansen Kamome, with passengers transferring at Takeo Onsen Station. The route allows for smooth travel from Hakata to Nagasaki with just one transfer.

Enjoy a comfortable journey through Western Kyushu on the "RELAY KAMOME," which connects you to Nagasaki.

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.