Aru Ressha: Hakata and Yufuin

Aru Ressha isn’t just a train, it’s a journey back in time. Designed by Eiji Mitooka, this two-car train feels like stepping into a classic, royal-style carriage. It’s also known as the “Sweet Train,” because instead of a simple bento, you’ll enjoy a seasonal multi-course menu created by Michelin-starred Chef Yoshihiro Narisawa, served to you one dish at a time.

As you dine, the Kyudai Main Line unfolds outside your window, watch rivers, forests, and quiet countryside, carrying you softly between Hakata and Yufuin (and back again).

Aru Ressha Carriages

First Class Seats (Car No. 1)

The train’s interiors evokes classic 20th-century royal carriages, elegant, nostalgic, and beautifully detailed, giving you the feel of stepping into a timeless journey. Car 1 features open-space seating with two and four seat table configurations where you’ll sit in an open, elegant dining-style layout. The carriage is finished in soft maple wood, coffered ceilings, and warm floral fabrics, creating a classic, romantic atmosphere. If you look closely you'll notice kumiko-style woodwork (a traditional Japanese lattice pattern). This is the carriage to choose if you want a relaxed space where you can enjoy the scenery, conversation, and your meal in comfort.

Private Compartments (Car No. 2)

In contrast to the open seating of Car 1, Car 2 is designed with private compartments for two, perfect if you want a quieter, more intimate experience. The interiors use darker walnut wood and elegant lattice-style screens similar to the Seven Stars in Kyushu. Soft lighting and warm colours were also used to create a calm, refined atmosphere, almost like dining in your own private salon. Car 2 is ideal for couples, special occasions, or if you just prefer privacy, quieter conversation, and a more personal dining experience.

Aru Ressha Stops

Hakata

Your journey begins here in Hakata, the main starting and ending point of the Aru Ressha. From here, the train travels along the scenic Kyudai Main Line to Yufuin (or vice versa), so sit back and relax as you watch the changing landscapes of mountains, rivers, and charming rural towns through large windows. It’s a slow, beautiful three-hour ride, meant to be savoured, not rushed.

The Aru Ressha runs one round-trip journey each day from Saturday to Monday, going from Hakata to Yufuin in the morning and Yufuin to Hakata in the afternoon. Along the way, the train makes short scenic stops at Tanushimaru and Chikugo-Yoshii. These brief stops are your chance to stretch, take photos, browse local treats, or collect station stamps.

Often called the “Sweet Train”, the highlight of the journey is the multi-course dining experience created by Chef Yoshihiro Narisawa, a Michelin-starred chef known worldwide. Here, instead of a bento box, you’ll be served a full-course meal, dish by dish, right at your seat — just like in a fine dining restaurant. The menu changes seasonally, using fresh ingredients from all over Kyushu, and the dishes are served on handcrafted tableware made by local artisans, with free-flow drinks including champagne, plum wine, tea, and more.

Tanushimaru

On the Hakata to Yufuin route, the train makes a short stop at Tanushimaru for about 19 minutes. It's a brief operational stop, not meant for you to embark on extended exploration. However, you will have a chance to step onto the platform, stretch your legs, and enjoy a fun photo moment.

The station building itself is shaped like a Kappa, a playful, water-dwelling creature from Japanese folklore. You’ll also see a large Kappa statue on the platform, with the Minou mountain range as a scenic backdrop. There’s even a tiny café called Kapateria right at the station.

This stop is a quick but memorable chance to take unique photos, enjoy the fresh air, and experience a charming local touch before the journey continues toward Yufuin.

Chikugo-Yoshii

On the Yufuin to Hakata return trip, the train makes a short 8-minute stop at Chikugo-Yoshii Station, located in Ukiha City, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. Just like Tanushimaru Station, it’s a brief stop, not meant for extended exploration, and you are expected to remain on or near the train.

Chikugo-Yoshii is known for its white-walled (shirakabe) historic townscape. While you won’t have time to explore the town itself, you may catch a glimpse of its traditional architecture from the platform. This stop is also a great opportunity to photograph the gold Aru Ressha against the station backdrop with your friends or family.

Use this brief stop to capture memorable train photos, enjoy the atmosphere, and maybe wave to friendly locals, as they sometimes come to the platform to greet passengers or showcase small local goods.

Yufuin

Yufuin is the end point of one leg of the Aru Ressha journey, and it complements the train experience perfectly. After your meal on board, you’ll step into a quiet, scenic onsen town known for its art shops, small cafés, and mountain views.

If you start your trip in Yufuin, the Aru Ressha departs in the afternoon for Hakata, which gives you time to enjoy the town before boarding. If you arrive here from Hakata, you can spend the rest of your day exploring on foot, as most sights are within walking distance from the station.

Yufuin is one of Japan’s most charming hot spring towns, making it an ideal pairing with an elegant train journey. Once you arrive, take your time strolling through the main street and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. Popular spots you can easily visit are: Lake Kinrin, Yunotsubo Kaido Street, Yufuin Floral Village, and of course, the onsen.

Yufuin Floral Village, inspired by England’s Cotswolds, is one of the town’s most picturesque attractions, featuring quaint architecture, themed shops, and a fairytale-like atmosphere that perfectly matches Yufuin’s tranquil charm.

Whether before or after your train ride, Yufuin gives you the chance to slow down and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.

Where to Stay on the Aru Ressha Journey

Hakata

• Grand Hyatt Fukuoka (5-star): Located in the Hakata district and directly connected to Canal City Hakata, this hotel is about a 10–15 minute walk from Hakata Station, ideal if you have an early Aru Ressha departure or arrive late after the journey. The rooms are warm and elegant, with subtle Japanese touches. Each one has a spacious bathroom with a separate soaking tub and shower, perfect for unwinding after a day of travel and sightseeing.

• The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka (5-star): Located in Daimyo Garden City in Chuo Ward, with easy access from Hakata Station. The hotel occupies the top floors of a modern glass tower, giving you stunning views of the city skyline, Ohori Park, or Hakata Bay through floor-to-ceiling windows. The rooms are calm and elegant, with neutral colors and natural wood finishes, plus subtle design touches inspired by Hakata-ori (traditional silk weaving).

• Miyako Hotel Hakata (4-star): Directly connected to Hakata Station through an underground passage (East Exit 7), just one minute on foot. That means you can walk straight to the Aru Ressha platform without going outside. The rooms here are spacious (starting at over 30 sqm) and feel bright and open, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering great city views. If you want maximum convenience the morning of your train ride, and a comfortable, modern room to relax in, this is one of the easiest and most practical hotels to stay.

• With The Style Fukuoka (4-star): This boutique urban resort has a relaxed, stylish atmosphere inspired by Palm Springs in California. It’s just a 5–7 minute walk from Hakata Station’s East Exit, close to Otowa Park. All rooms here are large and suite-style, with warm wood tones and a blend of Japanese and Western design. The lighting is soft and calming, creating a peaceful space to unwind before or after your Aru Ressha journey. If you prefer a stay that feels more private, cozy, and design-focused rather than a big hotel vibe, this is an ideal choice

• The Basics Fukuoka (4-star): Just a 7–10 minute walk from Hakata Station, making it easy to reach your Aru Ressha departure point. The walk is simple and passes cafés and shops, perfect if you want a quick coffee before boarding. The rooms are considered spacious by Japanese standards, with comfortable beds and clean, well-designed bathrooms that feature separate shower and bath areas. One standout feature of The Basics is the beautiful multi-story lobby designed like a grand library, where you can even borrow books to read in your room.

Yufuin

• Oyado Ichizen: Located at the foot of Mount Yufu in the onsen town of Yufuin, Oyado Ichizen is an upscale ryokan and features natural wood and clean, minimalist Japanese design, giving you a calm and restful atmosphere. Some rooms are private villas or suites with relaxing views of Mount Yufu, and many include their own private hot spring baths. If you want a stay that feels peaceful, intimate, and authentically Japanese, this is a perfect match.

• Gekkoju Yufuin: An exclusive retreat surrounded by nature. Each room at Gekkoju Yufuin is essentially a private villa that comes with its own private onsen bath, where you can relax in natural hot spring water while enjoying views of the surrounding landscape and Mount Yufu. The hot spring water is also known for being gentle and good for the skin. You’ll also be assigned with a personal butler to help with anything you need from transport, to dining arrangements, or even special requests.

• Yufuin Luxury Villa Zakuro (4-star): At Villa Zakuro, your stay is all about privacy, comfort, and relaxation. Each villa is a spacious private suite with its own style, high-quality furnishings, and two hot spring baths (one indoors and one open-air) flowing with natural spring water 24/7. You can soak anytime you like, surrounded by views of Mount Yufu, rice fields, and quiet countryside.

• Yufuin Rakuyu (3-star): If you want a private onsen experience without the higher price of luxury resorts stay at Yufuin Rakuyu, where every room has its own private open-air onsen bath with natural spring water, so you can soak whenever you like while enjoying views of the garden or night sky. The rooms are designed with a modern-Japanese style, using warm wood tones and comfortable beds to create a peaceful, welcoming space. The ryokan also serves high-quality Japanese meals, making your stay feel complete.

• The Village Yufuin Onsen Glamping: If you want the outdoor, cozy camp atmosphere without sacrificing comfort, The Village Yufuin Onsen Glamping is a great choice. Here, you can enjoy nature and comfort at the same time—no camping gear needed. You’ll stay in stylish dome or bell-shaped tents set on private wooden decks. Inside, each tent is fully equipped with comfortable beds (some with Simmons mattresses), air conditioning/heating, electric blankets, power outlets, and Wi-Fi, so you'll sleep well in any weather.

Where to Eat 

Hakata

• Motsusakaba Rakutenchi KITTE Hakata Ten: This lively restaurant has an izakaya-style atmosphere inspired by old post-war pubs, making it a fun place to eat like the locals do. The specialty here is motsunabe (offal hotpot), a famous Fukuoka comfort dish. The must-try menu item is the Puri Puri Motsunabe. Puri puri describes the plump, tender, slightly fatty texture of the offal, it’s rich, flavorful, and full of collagen, cooked with vegetables and broth at your table.
• Hakata Meidai Yoshizuka Unagiya: This historic restaurant has been serving charcoal-grilled unagi for over 150 years, making it one of Fukuoka’s most well-known spots for eel. The eel is prepared using a special “konashi” grilling method, which makes it crispy on the outside and soft, tender on the inside. Set along the Naka River, the dining space is traditional, calm, and spacious.
• Sushi Sakai: A Michelin-starred sushi restaurant known for its refined omakase (chef’s choice) dining experience. At Sushi Sakai, you don't order individual dishes. Instead, you put your trust in the chef with the omakase tasting menu. The chef prepares Edomae-style sushi using the freshest, seasonal seafood from the Kyushu region.
• Sushi Kakujuan: A refined, quiet hideaway in Kamigofuku-cho, offering an intimate dining experience away from busy streets. The owner-chef is trained in both sushi and traditional Japanese cuisine, so each meal feels thoughtful and beautifully balanced. Here, you’ll enjoy seasonal omakase courses, changing daily based on the freshest seafood and produce available.
• Miyachiku: A high-end teppanyaki restaurant known for serving award-winning Miyazaki beef (one of Japan’s top wagyu, famous for its rich marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture). Here, your meal is cooked right in front of you, by a skilled chef. The teppanyaki course menus are the most popular choice here, which lets you try different cuts of Miyazaki beef cooked exactly how you like it.
• Furukawa: A Michelin two-star kaiseki restaurant offering a calm, elegant dining experience. The chef creates a seasonal multi-course meal using local ingredients, with each dish arranged to look as beautiful as it tastes. The setting is quiet and refined, with options for private dining rooms.

Yufuin

• Yufuya: If you want to enjoy high-quality wagyu in a relaxed, private atmosphere, go to Yufuya, a modern restaurant specializing in premium Miyazaki wagyu, offering both lunch and dinner in a comfortable, private setting. They serve A4 and A5 grade beef, known for its fine marbling and buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Pizzeria Kunugi no Oka: This cozy hillside pizzeria offers beautiful views of Mount Yufu along with delicious, wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza. The pizzas are baked in a stone oven using kunugi (sawtooth oak), which gives them a light smoky flavor. You’ll also find homemade pasta and other simple, comforting Italian dishes.

• Momiji Yufuin: A traditional Japanese restaurant known for serving seasonal dishes made with local ingredients, mainly during lunch. The menu features set meals that let you enjoy a variety of flavors in one sitting. Try the Japanese Black Beef Steak Rice Bowl, a signature and highly recommended dish, featuring high-quality wagyu beef served over rice with a complementary sauce.
• ENOWA Jimgu: A farm-to-table fine dining restaurant. The experience centers on ingredients grown right on ENOWA’s own organic farm and greenhouses, plus produce from local Oita farmers. Chef Tashi Gyamtso (formerly of the Michelin-starred Blue Hill at Stone Barns in New York) creates a seasonal omakase menu that changes daily based on what’s freshly harvested, so every meal is unique to your visit.
  
• Yufumabushi Shin: One of the most popular restaurants in Yufuin, so expect a line, but it’s worth it. Their signature dish is Yufu Mabushi, a clay-pot rice meal you can enjoy three different ways. You can choose from Bungo Beef, Eel, or Local Chicken Mabushi.

Other Things to Do

Hakata

• Kushida Shrine: Known as the guardian shrine of Hakata, loved by locals, and is the central point for the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival. Even though it’s located in the city center, the atmosphere here feels calm and welcoming. One highlight you’ll want to see here is the kazari yamakasa, the large, beautifully decorated festival floats on display year-round.

• Tochoji Temple: A historic Shingon Buddhist temple founded by the monk Kukai in 806 A.D., making it the oldest Shingon temple in Kyushu. One of the highlights is inside the main hall: a 10.8-meter seated wooden Buddha, one of the largest of its kind in Japan. It was hand-carved over four years and is truly impressive to see up close.

• Shofukuji: Japan's first Zen Buddhist temple, founded in 1195 by the monk Eisai, who introduced the Rinzai Zen tradition from China. Located right in the Hakata area, it offers a quiet, peaceful break from the city. You can walk through the serene temple grounds and admire the classic Zen architecture, though the buildings themselves aren’t open to enter.

• Sumiyoshi Shrine: One of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines, located right in Hakata and easy to visit from Hakata Station. It’s one of the three Great Sumiyoshi shrines and is dedicated to the gods of the sea, travel, poetry, and sumo. The grounds feel calm and traditional, making it a relaxing stop between city sights.

• Canal City Hakata: A massive, architecturally unique shopping and entertainment complex known as a "city within a city" in Fukuoka.  A canal runs through its center, giving it a spacious and interesting atmosphere. It’s also a short walk from Hakata Station, so it’s an easy stop during your visit.

Yufuin

• Lake Kinrin: One of the most scenic spots in Yufuin and is just a short, easy walk from the end of the main shopping street. The lake is fed by both hot and cold springs, which keeps the water warm year-round. On cool autumn and winter mornings, light mist rises from the surface, creating a soft, dreamy atmosphere that the town is famous for.

• Yunotsubo Kaido: The main walking street in Yufuin, stretching from the train station to Lake Kinrin. It’s lined with cafes, local craft shops, food stalls, and small boutiques, all set against charming low-rise buildings with Mount Yufu in the backdrop. The walk is about 1.5 km, easy and enjoyable at a relaxed pace.

• Mount Yufu: The beautiful double-peaked mountain that overlooks Yufuin, often called “Bungo Fuji” because its silhouette resembles Mount Fuji. It’s an active volcano and a popular destination for hikers. If you enjoy hiking, there are several well-marked trails here, from easier routes to more challenging climbs, so you can choose the path that suits your comfort and fitness level.

• Yufuin Floral Village: A small, charming theme park designed to resemble a quaint country village in the English Cotswolds. It’s just a short walk from Yunotsubo Kaido, making it easy to include while exploring Yufuin on foot. Here, you’ll find cute themed shops, especially those inspired by popular Japanese characters, plus lots of great photo spots thanks to the village’s cozy, storybook look.

• Yufuin Showakan: A nostalgic mini-museum that recreates what everyday life looked like in Japan during the Showa Era (1926–1989). Inside, you’ll walk through a full-size replica of an old town street, complete with a candy shop, barber, photo studio, post office, and small theater, just as they would have appeared decades ago.

• Comico Art Museum Yufuin: If you appreciate art, architecture, and calm spaces, Comico Art Museum Yufuin is a must-visit, designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma. The building itself is part of the experience, its black charred-cedar roofs and village-like layout blend beautifully with the surrounding nature. Inside, you’ll find contemporary works by well-known Japanese artists, displayed in quiet, thoughtfully designed spaces.

A Golden Hour on Rails

From the moment you leave Hakata, you’re not just riding a train, you’re enjoying a luxurious tasting journey with Kyushu’s scenery as your backdrop. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply chasing beauty at a slower pace, we’ll take care of every detail for you, from your seat and seasonal menu to your hotel in Yufuin or dinner reservation in Hakata, so all that’s left is for you to enjoy the journey. When you're ready, request a quote or contact our team at (+1 800 672 0517 | +351 289 009 580 | +44 808 189 0647).

You may also explore our other featured luxury trains: A-Train, Saphir Odoriko, The Royal Express, and Twilight Express Mizukaze. Or browse our self-guided itineraries for Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Hokkaido, Hakone and Mt. Fuji, and many more.