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

This article provides a comprehensive overview of JR Kyushu's "YUFU" limited express train, which connects Hakata Station to Yufuin Station and Oita 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 for Yufuin Onsen and along the Kyudai Main Line, 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.
"YUFU" is a JR Kyushu limited express train connecting Hakata Station with Yufuin Station and Oita Station via the Kyudai Main Line. It is used as one of the main means of access to the popular hot spring resort of Yufuin. It runs on the same route as the sightseeing limited express "Yufuin no Mori," but "YUFU" is a more convenient limited express train for everyday use, as it also has unreserved seats. The train uses KiHa 185 series diesel railcars, which are characterized by their calm and relaxing interior. The train's name comes from Mount Yufu, a symbol of Yufuin. From the train windows, passengers can enjoy the beautiful valley along the Chikugo River and the plateau scenery overlooking Mount Yufu. Since there are other trains with similar names and destinations, it is recommended to check the train name and destination on the departure information display before boarding.

"YUFU"

"YUFU" is a JR Kyushu limited express train named after Yufuin and Mount Yufu. The Kyudai Main Line runs from Kurume Station through Hita and Yufuin to Oita Station. The area along the line is also known as the "Yufu Highlands Line" and is known as a scenic route that crosses Kyushu. The KiHa 185 series is a former JR Shikoku limited express diesel railcar that JR Kyushu acquired and is now using. The sightseeing limited express "Yufuin no Mori" also operates on the same section, and "YUFU" plays a complementary role.

Train Features and Popular Points

The appeal of the "YUFU" train lies in its direct access from Hakata to Yufuin without transfers, and the availability of unreserved seats. Even if the "Yufuin no Mori" train is fully booked, the "YUFU" train may still be available for same-day travel. Yufuin Onsen is a popular hot spring resort known for its abundant hot spring water and rural scenery overlooking Mount Yufu. Kinrin Lake is a representative spot of Yufuin, famous for its fantastical scenery shrouded in morning mist. Yunotsubo Street is lined with cafes, general stores, and souvenir shops. Hita is a town that flourished as a direct territory of the shogunate during the Edo period, and the townscape of Mameda-machi has been preserved. Amagase Onsen is a hot spring resort with open-air baths scattered along the Kusu River. From the train window, you can see valleys along the Chikugo River and idyllic highland scenery. Checking the stations served and travel times before boarding will make it easier to plan an itinerary that includes stops along the way. Since the view from the train window changes significantly depending on the season and time of day, it's recommended to choose different times of day for your outbound and return journeys.

"YUFU" Train Schedule

*The "YUFU" train operates several round trips per day.

Downbound (towards Yufuin Station) Timetable

Timetable for northbound trains (towards Hakata Station)

The "YUFU" train operates several round trips per day. Since the schedule may change depending on the season and timetable revisions, it's best to check the latest timetable on Ekitan 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.

Important Notes on Operating Days and Service Suspensions

The "YUFU" train operates throughout the year. However, the Kyudai Main Line is susceptible to heavy rain, which may cause service disruptions. Some trains terminate at Yufuin, while others continue directly to Oita.

"YUFU" Operating Section

Main Sections

• Hakata Station to Kurume Station (Kagoshima Main Line)
• Kurume Station to Hita Station (Kyudai Main Line)
• Hita Station - Yufuin Station - Oita Station (Kyudai Main Line)

Yufuin Station is the gateway to Yufuin Onsen (hot spring resort). You can walk from the station to Yunotsubo Street and enjoy strolling around town. Kinrin Lake is a representative scenic spot of Yufuin, and there is a well-maintained walking path along the lakeside. Mount Yufu is a beautiful mountain with an elevation of 1,583 meters, and there are also well-maintained hiking trails. Mameda-machi in Hita is an important traditional building preservation district where Edo-period merchant houses remain. Amagase Onsen is a hot spring resort with open-air baths scattered along the Kusu River. Beppu Onsen is also easily accessible from Oita Station. As you will mainly be traveling to the surrounding tourist spots by bus or on foot, it is a good idea to check the local transportation options in advance. There may be a tourist information center near the station where you can obtain maps and brochures.

"YUFU" Stations Served

Main Stations Served

• Hakata Station
• Kurume Station
• Hita Station
• Amagase Station
• Yufuin Station
• Oita Station

The stations a train stops at may vary. Please check the stations your train stops at on Ekitan or the railway company's official website.

"YUFU" Fare

Representative Section Fare

• Limited Express Fare, Ticket and Timetable - Ekitan

Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Limited Express Surcharge

The fare for the "YUFU" 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, high 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.

Differences from "Yufuin no Mori"

The sightseeing limited express "Yufuin no Mori" also operates on the same route. "Yufuin no Mori" is a sightseeing train with all reserved seats and uses specially designed high-decker carriages. "YUFU," on the other hand, also has unreserved seats and is a more convenient limited express for everyday use. "YUFU" is a strong alternative when "Yufuin no Mori" is fully booked.

How to Buy "YUFU" Tickets

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. 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 Midori-no-madoguchi

You can purchase reserved seat limited express tickets at the station's reserved seat ticket vending machines or at the Midori-no-madoguchi. 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 in Yufuin Onsen with train travel.

How to Buy for International Tourists

The "YUFU" is a JR Kyushu train, so it can be used with the JR 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 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?

Within the SUGOCA area around Fukuoka, you can use a transportation IC card for the fare portion of the ticket. However, most of the Kyudai Main Line is outside the IC card area. 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.
*Please note that you cannot ride the express train using only your IC card. A limited express surcharge must be purchased separately.

"YUFU" Seating Information

Seat Types

The "YUFU" train is operated using KiHa 185 series diesel railcars and consists of reserved and unreserved seats in ordinary class. 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 KiHa 185 series is a diesel railcar characterized by its calm interior that makes use of wood grain. The seats have a reclining function, making it comfortable even on journeys of two hours or more. The windows are designed to be large, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenery of the Chikugo River gorge and Mount Yufu. Along with the sound of the diesel engine, you can enjoy a leisurely journey. 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 comfortable experience.

Large Luggage Storage Area

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

Barrier-Free Facilities

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

Ekiben and In-Train Dining on "YUFU"

There is no in-train sales service on the "YUFU" train. If you want to enjoy a meal, it is recommended to prepare in advance at the ekiben shops or stalls at Hakata Station. Yufuin has a wide variety of cafes and restaurants that use local ingredients. Hita is known for its Hita yakisoba and ayu (sweetfish) dishes. Oita is famous for its toriten (chicken tempura), Seki horse mackerel, and Seki mackerel. Since the shops inside the stations 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 "YUFU"

If you use the unreserved seats on the "YUFU" train, you may not be able to find a seat during peak hours. The Kyudai Main Line is susceptible to heavy rain, which may cause service disruptions. There are trains that terminate at Yufuin and trains that go directly to Oita, so be sure to check your destination. This is a different train from the "Yufuin no Mori," so be careful not to board the wrong train. Yufuin is a popular tourist destination, so accommodations may fill up quickly on weekends. 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, 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

"YUFU" is a JR Kyushu limited express train connecting Hakata Station with Yufuin Station and Oita Station via the Kyudai Main Line. It offers unreserved seating, making it an attractive option for easily accessing the popular Yufuin Onsen hot spring resort. Passengers can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Chikugo River gorge and the views of Mount Yufu from the train windows as they journey across Kyushu.
Enjoy a trip of hot springs and highland scenery aboard "YUFU," which heads towards the foot of Mount Yufu.

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.
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.