Summary
The Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen is Japan’s newest Shinkansen line, opened in 2022, connecting Nagasaki with Takeo-Onsen via Isahaya and Omura. Though currently a short route, it provides a fast and scenic link to Nagasaki, a historic port city with a rich cultural heritage.
For example, in Nagasaki you can explore Glover Garden and Nagasaki Peace Park; in Isahaya, enjoy the Isahaya Bay wetland and traditional canals; and in Takeo-Onsen, relax in one of Kyushu’s oldest hot spring towns with its iconic red-lacquered gate.
All trains are operated with 6-car N700S series sets, offering modern facilities and comfortable seating. At Takeo-Onsen Station, passengers can transfer to the Relay Tsubame limited express, providing convenient access to Hakata.
N700S series train set
Route map
Train types
All trains are operated with 6-car N700S series train set.
KAGOME
The main service on the Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen, Kamome connects Nagasaki and Takeo-Onsen in just under 1 hour, with stops at Isahaya and Omura. Operated with 6-car N700S series trains, it offers a fast and comfortable link to Nagasaki. Passengers can transfer to the RELAY KAGOME at Takeo-Onsen for convenient access to Hakata.
RELAY KAGOME
Relay Kamome is a limited express service operating on conventional rail lines between Hakata and Takeo-Onsen, taking about 1h20m. At Takeo-Onsen, it provides smooth connections to the Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen Kamome bound for Nagasaki. Operated with modern limited express trains, it offers comfortable seating and convenient access to western Kyushu.
Seat types
- In the Green Car, all seats are reserved.
- On KODAMA and HIKARI trains, the non-reserved seat cars may differ depending on the train.
KAMOME
2nd class / Reserved
Cars 1 to 3 are reserved cars. They feature a 2+2 seating layout offering comfort.
2nd class / Non-reserved
Cars 4 to 6 are reserved cars. They feature a 2+3 seating layout.
RELAY KAMOME
1st class
Car 1 is 1st class, called “Green Cars.” All seats are reserved. They feature a 1+2 seating layout, offering comfort even on long journeys.
2nd class
All cars (excluding Car 1) are 2nd class, with a 2+2 seating layout. Reserved and non-reserved seats are the same type.
Stops
- The stops of the trains vary depending on the train.
- ▲ indicates stations where only some trains stop.
Travel Times and Fares for Major Sections
| Route | Type | Time | 1st class※1 |
2nd class (R) |
2nd class (Non-R) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hakata - Nagasaki | KAGOME, RELAY KAMOME | 1h30m | ¥7260 | ¥6490 | ¥5960 |
| Takeo-Onsen - Nagasaki | KAGOME | 30m | - | ¥38000 | ¥3270 |
| Shin-Osaka - Nagasaki※2 | KAGOME, RELAY KAMOME, SAKURA | 4h40m | ¥29170 | ¥21030 | ¥19970 |
- "(R)" means fare with seat reservation.
- "(Non-R)" means fare with Non-seat reservation.
- Children aged 6 to under 12 pay half of the adult fare for 2nd class seats. Children under 6 travel free, but a child fare is required if a seat is reserved.
- The following fares are standard fares. During busy seasons, an additional ¥400 applies. During off-peak seasons, ¥200 is discounted.
- ※1 There is no 1st class on the KAMOME. The fare shown is when using 1st class on the RELAY KAMOME and SAKURA.
- ※2 This fare applies when transferring between the Kyushu Shinkansen and the Relay Kamome at Shin-Tosu station.
Onboard facilities (KAMOME)
Restrooms
Located approximately once every two cars.
Oversized baggage area
Baggage with total dimensions (A+B+C) of between 160 and 250 cm requires a reservation. The areas is behind the back row. Passengers traveling with oversized baggage without a reservation will be charged a baggage fee (¥1000).
Power outlets
On the N700S, every seat is equipped with a power outlet. On the N700A, outlets are available at every seat in 1st class (Green Cars), and at window seats in 2nd class.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is not available.
Onboard facilities (RELAY KAMOME)
Restrooms
Located approximately once every two cars.
Power outlets
The availability of power outlets varies depending on the train type. On some trains, they can be found at front-row seats and window seats.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is not available.
Timetable
The timetable is frequently updated. Please check the latest version on the JR Kyushu website .
Major sightseeing spots
HAKATA
Hakata, part of Fukuoka City, is famous for its lively food stalls (yatai) and Hakata ramen. The city is also a cultural hub with festivals like Hakata Gion Yamakasa and easy access to Kyushu.
TAKEO-ONSEN
Takeo-Onsen is one of Kyushu’s oldest hot spring towns, known for its relaxing baths and the iconic red-lacquered gate of Takeo Shrine. The area also offers tranquil Japanese gardens and a welcoming atmosphere.
NAGASAKI
Nagasaki blends Japanese and international influences, with attractions such as Glover Garden, Oura Church, and the Nagasaki Peace Park. Its scenic harbor and unique history make it a memorable destination..
Important Notes
- Holidays in May, August, and December are extremely crowded.
- The morning and evening hours are also very crowded.