Nagasaki Prefecture
A Closer Look at the Newest JR Kyushu Trains
The JR Kyushu trains used to be a group of eight sightseeing trains that took passengers on journeys across Kyushu in a way that allowed them to experience the island’s beautiful scenery fully. In recent years, the opportunities to ride a “Design & Story Train” has grown. By the end of 2022, there will be 11 trains in the collection. Let’s take a look at what these newest additions bring. 36+3 (Sanju-Roku plus San) A completely new journey is being offered by the 36+3. Its name comes from the fact that Kyushu is the 36th largest island in the world and that the train provides passengers with three things: surprise, impression, and happiness. Plus, 36 + 3 = 39, which is a number that in Japanese sounds similar to “thank you.” The train runs several routes, although most start or end in Hakata. You can reserve a regular seat in cars 5 and 6 (car 6 has a tatami floor, meaning you’ll need to remove your shoes) or a seat with a lunch and dinner plan in cars 1 and 2. Car 3 has a bar, and car 4 contains the lounge where events on the train take place. Aru…