Board the legendary 'Forest of Yufuin' emerald-green express train through the misty mountains of Kyushu to the fairy-tale hot-spring village of Yufuin — a bucket-list rail journey ranked among Japan's most beautiful. Arrive into a world of artisan boutiques, lake-mirrored ryokan, and steaming outdoor baths.
What to expect
The train glides from Hakata Station through paddy fields and cedar-forested mountains to Yufuin in about 1 hour 45 minutes. In the village, stroll Yufuin Floral Village's thatched lanes, browse gallery-studios, and indulge in a private onsen session at one of the lakeside inns. The return journey offers golden-hour mountain panoramas and a chilled local craft beer from the onboard bar cart.
Good to know
Reserve seats in advance at JR Kyushu's website or any JR ticket office — these trains sell out weeks ahead. Hakata Station is a 15-minute taxi from the cruise terminal. Allow yourself at least 2 hours in Yufuin to be back for the return train comfortably. Total excursion time is approx. 6 hours; confirm your all-aboard before booking.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Hakata — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.