Train Cruise

A Century-Old Railway in Kyushu

Canadian, Nick Szasz, takes us train cruising, the best way to travel, on the Hisatsu Line in Kyushu that connects Kumamoto to Kagoshima. Known as the Treasury of Railway Heritage, this century-old line has many historic stations and bridges, and is a popular destination for rail enthusiasts. Nick travels along the Kuma River on the Steam Locomotive Hitoyoshi; transfers to the Isaburo Shinpei, which climbs slopes using a loop and a switchback; and boards Hayato no Kaze, a limited express to arrive at Sakurajima. On the way he tastes the local ekiben lunch boxes, and experiences the magnificent natural landscape.