Kyushu, the third largest island in Japan, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With its beautiful natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and mouth-watering cuisine, Kyushu has something to offer every traveller. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Kyushu is on the Seven Stars train, a luxurious train that takes passengers on a journey through the island’s most beautiful sights and sounds.
The Seven Stars train is a part of the JR Kyushu railway network. It is often referred to as Japan’s answer to the Orient Express. The train is designed to provide passengers with the ultimate luxury travel experience, complete with gourmet meals, private cabins, and panoramic views of Kyushu’s stunning scenery.
This luxurious train has seven train cars that are painted a wine-red colour to look like traditional lacquer. The inside is just as elegant, with warm wood panelling and large, panoramic windows that give every passenger the best views of Kyushu. The train has 14 comfortable guest rooms that can each fit two travellers.
This includes 12 regular suites (11 Twin Rooms and 1 Double Room) that are a beautiful mix of Western and Japanese styles, with rich wooden interiors, soft lighting, soft beds, and clear windows to see the passing landscape. Each suite has a private bathroom and shower that are of the highest quality. While the suites are comfortable and have Wi-Fi (although reception may be spotty depending on where you are in the mountains), there are no TVs. The goal is to get people to talk to each other and enjoy the beautiful views together.
The last two suites are deluxe suites that are designed to make you feel most relaxed and comfortable. These suites have a classy design with Japanese furniture that is accented with Western comforts and a stylish, hand-crafted interior.
Aside from the suite cars, there is also a lounge car called “Blue Moon” that is a great place to relax and meet other passengers. This Blue Moon car offers beverages to relax the body, live piano performances to calm the mind, and, of course, ample space to converse and admire the beautiful scenery.
There is also a dining car called “Jupiter” that focuses on the food of Kyushu. The expert chefs on board use local, seasonal ingredients to make dishes that are then brought to your table by attentive staff.
A RIDE ON THE TRAIN: TRAVELING ALL OVER KYUSHU
The train journey starts and ends in Fukuoka, Kyushu’s largest city. From there, passengers embark on a four-day journey through the island, stopping at various destinations along the way.
Here are some of the highlights of the journey:
Day 1: Fukuoka to Aso
The journey begins in Fukuoka, where passengers are welcomed aboard the Seven Stars train. After settling into their private cabins, passengers can explore the train’s luxurious facilities, which include a lounge car, a dining car, and an observation car.
The first stop on the journey is Aso, a town located in the heart of Kyushu. Aso is famous for its stunning natural beauty, which includes Mount Aso, one of the largest active volcanoes in Japan. The train stops at a local station, where passengers are taken on a tour of the Aso Caldera, a vast crater formed by ancient volcanic eruptions.
Day 2: Aso to Nagasaki
On the second day of the journey, the train makes its way to Nagasaki, a city with a rich history and cultural heritage. Nagasaki is known for its stunning harbour views, historic sites, and delicious cuisine.
After arriving in Nagasaki, passengers can explore the city’s famous landmarks, including the Nagasaki Peace Park, which commemorates the victims of the atomic bombing that occurred during World War II. The park features a peace statue, a peace fountain, and a museum that tells the story of the bombing and its aftermath.
Day 3: Nagasaki to Yufuin
On the third day of the journey, the train makes its way to Yufuin, a town located in the mountains of central Kyushu. Yufuin is famous for its natural hot springs, which are said to have healing properties.
Upon arrival in Yufuin, passengers can relax in the town’s famous hot springs, which are located in traditional Japanese inns called ryokans. The town also features a number of art galleries and shops selling local handicrafts.
Day 4: Yufuin to Fukuoka
The final day of the journey takes passengers back to Fukuoka, where the journey began. Along the way, the train stops at various destinations, including the city of Kurume, which is known for its delicious ramen noodles.
After arriving in Fukuoka, passengers can take a tour of the city’s famous landmarks, including the Fukuoka Tower, which offers stunning views of the city’s skyline. They can also explore the city’s vibrant food scene, which includes delicious dishes such as mentaiko (spicy cod roe) and tonkotsu ramen (pork bone broth noodle soup).
For more information visit https://www.cruisetrain-sevenstars.jp/english/
