How long does the journey take?

The Shinkansen journey between Hakata and Kumamoto is relatively short. "Mizuho" trains complete the journey in approximately 35 to 40 minutes. "Sakura" trains take between 40 and 50 minutes. "Tsubame" services, which make more stops, can take up to 1 hour. Shinkansen punctuality is a recognized characteristic of Japan's railway network.

Ticket - Train - Hakata - Kumamoto

Q: How to get from Hakata to Kumamoto?

The most efficient way to travel from Hakata (Fukuoka) to Kumamoto is by Kyushu Shinkansen. "Mizuho", "Sakura", and "Tsubame" trains provide frequent connections between Hakata Station and Kumamoto Station. "Mizuho" and "Sakura" services are the fastest, with fewer stops, while "Tsubame" trains make more stops. For oversized luggage, we recommend checking information about dedicated spaces or considering luggage delivery services for added convenience. We advise checking timetables and train types to choose the option best suited to your schedule.

Q: What is the price of the Kyushu Shinkansen?

The cost of a Shinkansen ticket between Hakata and Kumamoto varies depending on the seat type and train. A non-reserved seat ("Jiyūseki") generally costs around 4,700 yen. For a reserved seat ("Shiteiseki") on a "Sakura" or "Tsubame" train, the price is approximately 5,200 yen. "Mizuho" trains, being the fastest, have a slight surcharge for reserved seats. The Japan Rail Pass allows travel on "Sakura" and "Tsubame" services at no additional cost, but a supplement is required for "Mizuho" trains.

Q: What to see in Kumamoto?

Once you arrive in Kumamoto, several sites are accessible from the station. Kumamoto Castle is the main attraction, recognized as one of Japan's three greatest castles. Its reconstruction after the 2016 earthquakes is ongoing, but a portion is open to visitors. Suizenji Jojuen Garden, a traditional Japanese landscape garden featuring a recreation of the Tokaido, offers a peaceful setting. Near the castle, Sakura-no-baba Johsaien is a thematic district recreating the atmosphere of the Edo period, offering shops and restaurants. Kumamon Square, the office of Kumamoto's famous bear mascot, is also a possible visit for fans. These locations are generally accessible by tram or bus from Kumamoto Station.

Adults (+12yo)

Children* (< 12yo)

*the price displayed is for dedicated seats; children under 6 and babies can be seated on adults'lap free of charge.

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Itinerary › Kumamoto

Lowest price

Fastest option

0h40

First/last departure

06:10 / 23:02

Distance

999.00 km

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The Kyushu Shinkansen, which serves the Hakata-Kumamoto route, stands out for its regional integration in the design of some of its trains. The "Tsubame" services, in particular, designed by Eiji Mitooka, feature wooden interiors and natural materials. This approach aims to reflect Kyushu's craftsmanship and ambiance, offering a travel experience that differentiates itself from other Shinkansen lines with a warmer, more local aesthetic.

Frequently asked questions

The most efficient way to travel from Hakata (Fukuoka) to Kumamoto is by Kyushu Shinkansen. "Mizuho", "Sakura", and "Tsubame" trains provide frequent connections between Hakata Station and Kumamoto Station. "Mizuho" and "Sakura" services are the fastest, with fewer stops, while "Tsubame" trains make more stops. For oversized luggage, we recommend checking information about dedicated spaces or considering luggage delivery services for added convenience. We advise checking timetables and train types to choose the option best suited to your schedule.

The cost of a Shinkansen ticket between Hakata and Kumamoto varies depending on the seat type and train. A non-reserved seat ("Jiyūseki") generally costs around 4,700 yen. For a reserved seat ("Shiteiseki") on a "Sakura" or "Tsubame" train, the price is approximately 5,200 yen. "Mizuho" trains, being the fastest, have a slight surcharge for reserved seats. The Japan Rail Pass allows travel on "Sakura" and "Tsubame" services at no additional cost, but a supplement is required for "Mizuho" trains.

Once you arrive in Kumamoto, several sites are accessible from the station. Kumamoto Castle is the main attraction, recognized as one of Japan's three greatest castles. Its reconstruction after the 2016 earthquakes is ongoing, but a portion is open to visitors. Suizenji Jojuen Garden, a traditional Japanese landscape garden featuring a recreation of the Tokaido, offers a peaceful setting. Near the castle, Sakura-no-baba Johsaien is a thematic district recreating the atmosphere of the Edo period, offering shops and restaurants. Kumamon Square, the office of Kumamoto's famous bear mascot, is also a possible visit for fans. These locations are generally accessible by tram or bus from Kumamoto Station.