The Kanpachi/Ichiroku trains connect Hakata Station and Beppu Station in Japan’s Kyushu region in about five hours. The trains started operation in April 2024, with Kanpachi running from Hakata to Beppu, and Ichiroku running from Beppu to Hakata.

They are also one of JR Kyushu’s Design & Story Trains—tourist trains created around the concept of the history and culture of Kyushu and allowing visitors to focus on enjoying the ride itself.

The train names come from businessmen Kanpachi Aso and Ichiroku Eto, who were from Oita Prefecture and had deep ties to the Kyudai Main Line on which these trains run.

The trains are composed of three cars, with one previously being used in a Design & Story train and one previously being used in a regular train, both of which were renovated for use in the Kanpachi/Ichiroku trains.

The design was created by the Kagoshima-based design company IFOO, and features a chic black exterior, so glossy that it reflects the scenery along the line, as well as a gold motif of the route map for the Kyudai Main Line.

The interior is also unique to this line. The first car has a warm atmosphere, with red-based colors and tones evoking the volcanoes and hot springs in the Oita and Beppu areas. The second car is a lounge, drawing inspiration from the Yufuin and Hita areas, with a stunning counter made from a piece of cedar approx. 250 years old. The third car has a motif based on the Fukuoka and Kurume areas, utilizing blues and greens that bring to mind the majestic nature found along the line.

The first car

The second car

The third car

The lunches served on the trains are a delicious delight. Each day of the week features a different bento lunch box, such as Japanese or French cuisine, letting you savor carefully selected local ingredients.

There are also hospitality (omotenashi) events at stations along the way, where you can purchase local specialties and meet the local residents. This fulfilling journey lets you use all five senses to experience the local culture along the line.