Aso Boy Trains あそぼーい!
JLM
Aso Boy trains: Since 2011, the Aso Boy limited express train has been running, as its name implies, to and from Mount Aso, the huge volcano in the middle of the island. It currently connects Beppu and Oita with Aso.
Panoramic ride with Kuro
Formerly a steam train, the Aso Boy! tourist train has been a panoramic locomotive since 2011, and still runs to Mount Aso, the huge volcano in the middle of Kyushu Island, and the geothermal town of Beppu. The mascot 'Kuro' will accompany you on this joyful journey on board a very special train.
A playful design train
JR Kyushu operates a number of tourist trains that criss-cross all areas of the island. They're beautiful, surprising, fun and always carefully designed by top designers.
Such is the case of the Aso Boy!, a KiHa183 series diesel train completely redesigned by the famous Japanese railway designer Eiji Mitooka, offering a train that is panoramic, fun, cheerful and, of course, beautiful.
The interior spaces are very varied, from classic 2+2 seats with very colorful, shimmering fabrics, lounge benches facing the landscape, varnished wooden benches against the window to travel as close as possible to the mountains, or even in the all-white “Kuro” car, named after the train's little mascot dog, a very original layout with white seats, one for dad (or mom) and a smaller one adapted to a child's size. A highly original idea that will delight the whole family. There's even the 'Kuro Café' for a bite to eat at the entrance to this white car.
A unique panoramic journey
But the highlight of the show is undoubtedly the panoramic carriages, located at either end of the Aso Boy train! 9 seats, no more, for a privileged few who can admire their own journey at 180°, as the driver's cab is located above the passengers. You have an exceptional panoramic view of the beautiful scenery passing by around you. It's an experience like few other trains can offer.
Kuro and You!
The train's mascot is a cute little black dog named Kuro who you'll see everywhere, inside and out, in hundreds of different poses. There are showcases on board the train for you to just enjoy beautiful objects with Kuro. Goodies and other merchandise are sold on board the train, so you can take Kuro home with you in the form of key rings, bags, towels, notebooks, badges, games, etc. The choice is vast.
The Aso Boy! train even has a children's playground! It couldn't be more attractive and fun, with staff on hand to supervise the toddlers as they splash around in a wooden ball pool. The train then turns into a merry bazaar, where cries of joy mingle with the ta-tac ta-tac of the rolling train. To calm all these little people, head for the library corner, where you'll find books for children and adults, including some with stories by the dog Kuro.
The Aso Boy! sightseeing train runs every weekend and public holiday, as well as every day in August.
It leaves Kumamoto at 9.11am, stops in Aso at 10.32am and ends in Beppu at 12.37pm.
The return train leaves from Beppu at 3.06 pm, Aso at 5.14 pm and Kumamoto at 6.27 pm.
You must reserve your seat in advance to board this train, which will cost you 1,500 yen and not a yen more thanks to your JRPass.
JR Kyushu
