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Book JR Kyushu Pass

4.5(4.2K ratings)
Flexible travel on multiple routes
Flexible travel on multiple routes
Easy exchanges & cancellations
Easy exchanges & cancellations
Effortless planning
Effortless planning



JR North Kyushu Rail Pass train crossing Fukuoka countryside with mountains in background
Fukuoka train station with JR North Kyushu Rail Pass signage and travelers boarding a train.
Train crossing bridge in Fukuoka with JR North Kyushu Rail Pass.
Train passing through lush green landscape in Fukuoka, Japan, showcasing JR North Kyushu Rail Pass route.
Train crossing bridge in Fukuoka with JR North Kyushu Rail Pass.
Tourists exploring Fukuoka city with the JR North Kyushu Rail Pass, featuring a scenic view of the city skyline and train station
JR North Kyushu Rail Pass train crossing Fukuoka countryside with mountains in background
Fukuoka train station with JR North Kyushu Rail Pass signage and travelers boarding a train.
Train crossing bridge in Fukuoka with JR North Kyushu Rail Pass.
Train passing through lush green landscape in Fukuoka, Japan, showcasing JR North Kyushu Rail Pass route.
Train crossing bridge in Fukuoka with JR North Kyushu Rail Pass.
Tourists exploring Fukuoka city with the JR North Kyushu Rail Pass, featuring a scenic view of the city skyline and train station
JR North Kyushu Rail Pass train crossing Fukuoka countryside with mountains in background
Fukuoka train station with JR North Kyushu Rail Pass signage and travelers boarding a train.
Train crossing bridge in Fukuoka with JR North Kyushu Rail Pass.
Train passing through lush green landscape in Fukuoka, Japan, showcasing JR North Kyushu Rail Pass route.
Train crossing bridge in Fukuoka with JR North Kyushu Rail Pass.
Tourists exploring Fukuoka city with the JR North Kyushu Rail Pass, featuring a scenic view of the city skyline and train station
NEW

Northern Kyushu Area Pass

from
¥12,000
Extended validity
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
  • Experience the beauty of nature and coastal cities at North Kyushu with a railway pass designed perfectly for foreign travelers.
  • Enjoy reserved and non-reserved seating on express and local trains in the designated Shinkansen area.
  • Choose between a 3 or 5-day rail pass to make the most of your time in the 'Land of Fire.'
  • Grab the opportunity to ride the famous Japanese express trains including the Shinkansen, the fastest train in the world!
  • Access a range of cities including Nagasaki – the site of the 1945 bombing, Miyazaki – known for its heritage sites, and more.
  • If you’re looking for the 'thrill of adventure', visit an active volcano and find plenty of beaches and natural hot springs for a relaxed time.
  • Experience the beauty of nature and coastal cities at North Kyushu with a railway pass designed perfectly for foreign travelers.
  • Enjoy reserved and non-reserved seating on express and local trains in the designated Shinkansen area.
  • Choose between a 3 or 5-day rail pass to make the most of your time in the 'Land of Fire.'
  • Grab the opportunity to ride the famous Japanese express trains including the Shinkansen, the fastest train in the world!
  • Access a range of cities including Nagasaki – the site of the 1945 bombing, Miyazaki – known for its heritage sites, and more.
  • If you’re looking for the 'thrill of adventure', visit an active volcano and find plenty of beaches and natural hot springs for a relaxed time.

Inclusions

  • 3 or 5-day North Kyushu rail pass
  • Reserved and non-reserved seats for:
  • Shinkansen (Mizuho, Sakura, and Tsubame)
  • Express trains
  • Local trains

Exclusions

  • Lines between Hakata & Kokura
  • Green car seating (available at additional cost)

The ticket has the following options you can choose from:

  • 3-Day North Kyushu Rail Pass
  • 5-Day North Kyushu Rail Pass
  • This experience is only available for non-Japanese passport holders and those residing outside Japan, visiting temporarily.
  • Please obtain a temporary visitor proof with a stamp or seal on your passport when you enter Japan. If you are using an automated gate when entering Japan please offer it to the airport staff and receive a certificate.
  • Bring along your passport.
  • The name, country of residence, and passport numbers entered when booking must be an exact match to the passports used when boarding.
  • Green car seating is available at an additional cost.
  • This pass has to be used on consecutive days.
  • These tickets can’t be cancelled. However, you can use them any time within the next 3 months.
  • These tickets are valid for 3 months from the date of purchase.
Kumamoto Castle with cherry blossoms, Southern Kyushu Area Pass.
Kumamoto Castle in Southern Kyushu, Japan, viewed from a lush garden.
Kumamoto Castle in Southern Kyushu, Japan, with cherry blossoms in bloom.
Kumamoto Castle with cherry blossoms, Southern Kyushu Area Pass.
Kumamoto Castle with cherry blossoms, Southern Kyushu Area Pass.
Kumamoto Castle with cherry blossoms, Southern Kyushu Area Pass.
Kumamoto Castle in Southern Kyushu, Japan, viewed from a lush garden.
Kumamoto Castle in Southern Kyushu, Japan, with cherry blossoms in bloom.
Kumamoto Castle with cherry blossoms, Southern Kyushu Area Pass.
Kumamoto Castle with cherry blossoms, Southern Kyushu Area Pass.
Kumamoto Castle with cherry blossoms, Southern Kyushu Area Pass.
Kumamoto Castle in Southern Kyushu, Japan, viewed from a lush garden.
Kumamoto Castle in Southern Kyushu, Japan, with cherry blossoms in bloom.
Kumamoto Castle with cherry blossoms, Southern Kyushu Area Pass.
Kumamoto Castle with cherry blossoms, Southern Kyushu Area Pass.
NEW

Southern Kyushu Area Pass

from
¥10,000
Extended validity
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
  • Enjoy unlimited access to all local, express, and bullet trains in the JR route of the Southern Kyushu region for 3 consecutive days!
  • Made exclusively for foreign tourists, the rail pass covers a wide area to explore the best of Kyushu.
  • Look forward to using this quick & convenient pass for your travels in the vibrant subtropical area of Kyushu.
  • Ride to Kumamoto city which has the largest active volcano in the world, Mt. Aso.
  • With just one pass, travel to multiple destinations like Hayato, Sendai, Hitoyoshi, Yoshimatsu, Shin-Yatsushiro, and more.
  • Kumamoto is a highlight among the destinations reached and is known for Mt. Aso, the country's largest active volcano at an elevation of 5,223 feet.
  • Enjoy unlimited access to all local, express, and bullet trains in the JR route of the Southern Kyushu region for 3 consecutive days!
  • Made exclusively for foreign tourists, the rail pass covers a wide area to explore the best of Kyushu.
  • Look forward to using this quick & convenient pass for your travels in the vibrant subtropical area of Kyushu.
  • Ride to Kumamoto city which has the largest active volcano in the world, Mt. Aso.
  • With just one pass, travel to multiple destinations like Hayato, Sendai, Hitoyoshi, Yoshimatsu, Shin-Yatsushiro, and more.
  • Kumamoto is a highlight among the destinations reached and is known for Mt. Aso, the country's largest active volcano at an elevation of 5,223 feet.

Inclusions

Southern JR Kyushu Area Pass valid for 3 consecutive days:

  • Reserved & non-reserved seats on all JR local trains, limited express trains, and Shinkansen (Mizuho, Sakura, and Tsubame)
  • Kyushu Shinkansen between Kumamoto - Kagoshima-Chuo stations

Exclusions

  • Access to Green Car (superior class)
  • Shinkansen between Hakata and Kokura
  • JR Kyushu and B&S Miyazaki buses
  • Cruise Train Seven Stars
  • Sweet train (Aru Ressha)
  • Travel beyond Kumamoto
  • Entry to any attractions
  • The JR Southern Kyushu Pass can only be used by non-Japanese citizens.
  • When entering Japan please receive proof of being a 'temporary visitor' with a stamp or seal on your passport.
  • If you're using an automated gate when entering Japan, please approach the airport staff and receive a certificate from your passport with a stamp or seal.
  • These tickets can’t be cancelled. However, you can use them any time within the next 3 months.
  • These tickets are valid for 3 months from the date of purchase.
JR Kyushu Rail Pass
All Kyushu Area JR Train Pass
Interiors of a Kyushu Area JR Train
JR Train in Kyushu Area
Kyushu Area JR Train interiors
Train in Kyushu Area
Kyushu Area JR Train interiors
Kyushu Area JR Train
JR Kyushu Rail Pass
All Kyushu Area JR Train Pass
Interiors of a Kyushu Area JR Train
JR Train in Kyushu Area
Kyushu Area JR Train interiors
Train in Kyushu Area
Kyushu Area JR Train interiors
Kyushu Area JR Train
JR Kyushu Rail Pass
All Kyushu Area JR Train Pass
Interiors of a Kyushu Area JR Train
JR Train in Kyushu Area
Kyushu Area JR Train interiors
Train in Kyushu Area
Kyushu Area JR Train interiors
Kyushu Area JR Train
NEW

JR Kyushu Rail Pass

from
¥10,000
Extended validity
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
  • Check out what's hot in the land of fire – Kyushu for 3, 5, or 7 days with this rail pass granting you access to all major railways in Japan's southernmost island.
  • Travel via Shimonoseki, local trains, express trains, and bullet trains of the Hakata - Kagoshima-chuo line using this pass, valid exclusively for tourists visiting Japan.
  • There's so much to see in Kyushu, like the Kumamoto Castle, Mount Aso (one of the world's largest active volcanoes), and more. Pick between the North or South, or see it all.
  • Check out what's hot in the land of fire – Kyushu for 3, 5, or 7 days with this rail pass granting you access to all major railways in Japan's southernmost island.
  • Travel via Shimonoseki, local trains, express trains, and bullet trains of the Hakata - Kagoshima-chuo line using this pass, valid exclusively for tourists visiting Japan.
  • There's so much to see in Kyushu, like the Kumamoto Castle, Mount Aso (one of the world's largest active volcanoes), and more. Pick between the North or South, or see it all.

Inclusions

Inclusions

All Kyushu Pass

  • Trains within the Kyushu (Hakata - Miyazaki Airport stations) area including Shimonoseki
  • Unlimited reserved and non-reserved seats

South Kyushu Pass

  • Trains between Oita, Kumamoto, Kagoshima-Chuo, Miyazaki, and Miyazaki Airport stations
  • Unlimited reserved and non-reserved seats (redeemable up to 6 times)

North Kyushu Pass

  • Trains between Hakata, Kokura, Mojikō, Saga, Nagasaki, Sasebo, and Beppu stations
  • Unlimited non-reserved and reserved seats (redeemable up to 6 times)

Note: Seats can only be reserved on Shinkansen (Mizuho, Sakura, Tsubame, and Kamome bullet trains) and limited express trains.

Exclusions

  • JR Kyushu buses
  • B&S Miyazaki buses
  • Cruise Train Seven Stars in Kyushu
  • ARU RESSHA (Sweet Train)
  • Shinkansen (bullet train) between Hakata and Kokura
  • Access to Green Cars (private room/compartment)
  • This pass is only valid for non-Japanese passport holders with a Temporary Visitor stamp. Permanent citizens of Japan including non-Japanese passport holders cannot use this pass.
  • Please ensure that you receive a stamp or seal from airport staff indicating that you are a 'temporary visitor'. Ensure that you approach personnel if entering via an automated gate to receive the stamp/certificate.
  • The pass is valid for 3, 5, or 7 consecutive days (depending on your selection) once activated.
  • You can use the pass for 3, 5, or 7 days (depending on the ticket selected).
  • You'll have to reserve your seats. You can collect reserved seats at the ticket office (at the station) by showing your JR Pass. You can also skip ticketing lines and collect your tickets at the reserved seat ticket machine.
  • These tickets can’t be cancelled. However, you can use them any time within the next 3 months.
  • These tickets are valid for 3 months from the date of purchase.
Japan Rail PassJR Kyushu Pass

Explore Kyushu with Ease | Your Ultimate Guide to the JR Kyushu Pass

Traveling through Kyushu, Japan's southernmost and third-largest island, can be a breeze if you’re considering opting for the JR Kyushu Rail Pass. This convenient pass provides unlimited access to JR Kyushu trains, including bullet trains, limited express trains, and local lines. With options catering to different travel styles and durations, the JR Kyushu Rail Pass makes exploring Kyushu at your own pace both affordable and efficient.  

Ready to unlock Kyushu's hidden gems and bustling cities? Dive deeper on this page to know if you should get the JR Kyushu Pass, which one’s perfect for you, and all you can do with the pass. 

Navigate your JR Kyushu Pass guide

  1. What is the JR Kyushu Pass?
  2. Why get the JR Kyushu Pass?
  3. Things to know before booking your JR Kyushu Pass
  4. Your JR Kyushu Pass options
  5. JR Kyushu Pass: Region covered
  6. Areas covered by the JR Kyushu Pass
  7. What rail lines are covered with my Japan Rail Kyushu Pass? Is the Shinkansen included?
  8. How to buy & activate the JR Kyushu Pass
  9. Top sights & things to do in Kyushu
  10. Visit Kyushu with your JR Kyushu Pass: Your itinerary
  11. Frequently asked questions about the JR Kyushu Pass

What is the JR Kyushu Pass?

The JR Kyushu Rail Pass is a discounted travel pass offered by JR Kyushu Railway Company, exclusively for foreign visitors entering Japan with a temporary visitor visa. It lets you travel unlimitedly on a designated network of JR Kyushu trains within Kyushu island, Japan, for a chosen consecutive period of 3, 5 or 7 days. The pass covers the Shinkansen between Hakata - Kumamoto stations and Takeo-onsen - Nagasaki stations, limited express trains, and local JR trains.

Things to know before booking your JR Kyushu Pass

  • Purchase the JR Kyushu Pass online for a hassle-free experience.
  • Passes are only available to foreign tourists visiting Japan on a temporary visa.
  • The passes are not valid on non-JR-operated trains, buses, or transportation modes.
  • The pass must be used within the designated validity period. That means after you’ve activated your JR Pass, you’ll have to use it within the 30-day period for the designated 3, 5, or 7 days. 
  • Activation of the pass must occur within three months of purchase.
  • You must carry your passport at all times for verification.
  • Seat reservations may be required for some trains. You can do this online or at a ticket office. However, it’s recommended that you do it online to avoid last-minute delays and unavailability. 
  • JR Kyushu passes are non-transferable and non-refundable.

Your JR Kyushu Pass options

JR Kyushu Pass

South Kyushu 3-Day Pass

With this pass, you can take unlimited rides in the South Kyushu area for three days, including local, limited express, and Shinkansen trains between Oita and Miyazaki Airport stations, with reserved seats redeemable up to 6 times.

A woman working on a train - JR Kyushu Pass

North Kyushu 3-Day Pass

This pass allows unlimited travel throughout North Kyushu for 3 days, including local, limited express, and Shinkansen trains between Hakata and Beppu stations, with reserved seats redeemable up to 6 times each.

A couple on a train station in Japan

North Kyushu 5-Day Pass

The North Kyushu 5-Day Pass includes five days of unlimited rides in North Kyushu, including local, limited express, and Shinkansen trains between Hakata and Beppu stations, with reserved seats redeemable up to 6 times.

Two tourists at a train station at Japan

All Kyushu Area 3-Day Pass

This pass comes with unlimited rides throughout the entire Kyushu area for three days. This pass can be used on trains in the Kyushu (Hakata-Miyazaki Airport stations) area, including Shimonoseki. Unlimited reserved and unreserved seats in local trains, limited express trains, and Shinkansen between Hakata - Kagoshima-Chuo stations, and Takeo-onsen - Nagasaki stations are included with this all-Kyushu pass.

A woman travelling in a train in Japan

All Kyushu Area 5-Day Pass

The ticket provides unlimited rides in the Kyushu area for five days. This pass is valid on trains throughout Kyushu (Hakata-Miyazaki Airport stations), including Shimonoseki. This all-Kyushu pass includes unlimited reserved and unreserved seats on local trains, limited express trains, and Shinkansen between Hakata-Kagoshima-Chuo and Takeo-onsen-Nagasaki stations.

A woman on a train in Japan

All Kyushu Area 7-Day Pass

The ticket includes seven days of unrestricted riding throughout the Kyushu area. This pass is applicable on trains in Kyushu (Hakata-Miyazaki Airport stations), including Shimonoseki. This Kyushu pass covers unlimited reserved and unreserved seats on local trains, limited express trains, and the Shinkansen between Hakata-Kagoshima-Chuo and Takeo-onsen-Nagasaki stations.

JR Kyushu Pass: Region covered

What rail lines are covered with my Japan Rail Kyushu Pass? Is the Shinkansen included?

The JR Kyushu Rail Pass grants access to a vast network of trains operated by the JR Kyushu Railway Company within Kyushu. This includes all JR Kyushu Shinkansen bullet trains including the Hakata - Kagoshima-chuo Kyushu Shinkansen, Takeo-onsen - Nagasaki Nishi Shinkansen, and Kumamoto - Kagoshima-chuo Nishi Shinkansen. You won’t get access to the Sanyo Shinkansen that heads towards Honshu.

Additionally, you can hop on express trains, limited express trains, and local JR Kyushu lines within the designated area of your chosen pass (All Kyushu, Northern Kyushu, or Southern Kyushu).  Don’t forget that the JR Kyushu Rail Pass doesn't cover travel on non-JR Kyushu lines, buses, airplanes, or other transportation methods.

How to buy & activate the JR Kyushu Pass

Buying your JR Kyushu Pass and activating it is fairly simple. Here’s an easy breakdown of the steps:

A picture of a woman opening mail at home

Get your voucher

You'll receive your JR Kyushu Rail Pass voucher by email shortly after purchase.

An attendant helping people

Head to a redemption counter

Locate a JR Kyushu Rail Pass redemption counter at any JR Kyushu station.

A woman at a ticket counter

Exchange your voucher

Present your passport and the e-voucher to the staff at the redemption counter.

A woman getting on a train

Activate your pass

They'll help you exchange your voucher for a physical JR Kyushu Rail Pass and activate it for your chosen travel dates.

Additional info about booking JR Kyushu Passes:

  • For comfortable travel, especially during busy times of the year, think about booking seats in advance on express and limited express trains. After your pass has been activated, reservations can be made online or at JR Kyushu ticket offices.
  • Passengers holding non-Japanese passports may use this pass. When you travel, please remember to bring your travel documents, such as ID cards and passports with current visas.
  • Only one pass may be reserved per order; kindly reserve passes for each visitor separately.
  • Please enter your name and residential details, along with correct personal information that can be verified against your passport.
  • The day you want to start your Kyushu rail explorations is when you should activate your pass.
Visit Kyushu with your JR Kyushu Pass: Your itinerary

Frequently asked questions about the JR Kyushu Pass

What's the JR Kyushu Pass and what does it cover?

The JR Kyushu Rail Pass is a budget-friendly travel essential designed for foreign visitors exploring Kyushu, Japan's southernmost island. It grants unlimited rides on a vast network of JR Kyushu trains, including bullet trains (except for the Sanyo Shinkansen heading towards Honshu), express trains, limited express trains, and local JR Kyushu lines within your chosen designated area (All Kyushu, Northern Kyushu, or Southern Kyushu). 

Is the JR Kyushu Pass really worth it?

Absolutely! The JR Kyushu Rail Pass is a cost-effective way to explore Kyushu. If you plan on taking multiple train journeys across Kyushu, especially longer distances, the pass can save you significant amounts on transportation costs.  Think of it as unlocking Kyushu's diverse landscapes, charming towns, and bustling cities for one flat fee.

Does the JR Kyushu Pass cover travel to ferries between Kyushu and other islands?

Unfortunately, the JR Kyushu Rail Pass does not cover travel on ferries or other transportation methods outside of the JR Kyushu train network.

Where can I go with the JR Kyushu Pass?

The Kyushu pass unlocks train travel across the entire island, letting you explore a diverse range of destinations. Discover the bustling cityscapes of Fukuoka, delve into the historical richness of Kumamoto, and journey to Nagasaki, a city marked by resilience. Don't miss the  Sakurajima volcano in Kagoshima, or  the hot springs in Beppu and Yufuin. This is just a glimpse of the countless Kyushu treasures you can uncover with your JR Kyushu Rail Pass!

What are some popular day trips from major Kyushu cities like Fukuoka or Kagoshima accessible with the JR Kyushu Pass?

Take a day trip to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine from Fukuoka, a significant Shinto shrine, or explore the historical and natural beauty of Yanagawa, a charming canal city. You can witness the majestic Takachiho Gorge from Kagoshima JR, a mystical natural wonder, or embark on a thrilling white-water rafting adventure down the Lower Gokase River.

What's not covered by the JR Kyushu Pass?

The JR Kyushu Rail Pass does not cover travel on non-JR Kyushu lines, buses, airplanes, ferries, or other transportation methods. Additionally, it doesn't include limited express train seat reservations although these can be purchased separately at the JR Pass offices.

What happens if I lose my JR Kyushu Pass?

Unfortunately, lost JR Kyushu Rail Passes cannot be replaced or refunded. It is recommended to safely carry your  JR Kyushu Pass.

Can I get a refund on my JR Kyushu Pass?

JR Kyushu Rail Passes are non-refundable and non-transferrable.

Is the JR Kyushu Pass easy to use?

Absolutely! The JR Kyushu Rail Pass is designed for ease of use.  Once activated, simply show your pass to train staff when boarding JR Kyushu trains within your designated area.