Taking the Train from Fukuoka to Nagasaki

Traveling from Hakata Station in Fukuoka to Nagasaki Station is easy thanks to the Relay Kamome limited express and the Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen Kamome. Although there isn't a direct Shinkansen yet, the connection at Takeo-Onsen Station is seamless and designed specifically for through passengers.

The full journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it the fastest way to travel between the two cities.

How it works:

Board the Relay Kamome at Hakata Station.

Ride to Takeo-Onsen Station (about 1 hour).

Simply walk across the platform to the Kamome Shinkansen—no stairs, gates, or long transfers.

Arrive at Nagasaki Station in about 25 minutes.

Things to know before you ride:

You only need one ticket from Hakata to Nagasaki.

The route is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass, Northern Kyushu Rail Pass, and All Kyushu Rail Pass.

Both trains offer reserved and non-reserved seating.

Reserve seats in advance during weekends, holidays, and peak travel seasons.

The transfer at Takeo-Onsen is timed, so your connecting train will be waiting when you arrive.

My tip: Sit on the left side when departing Hakata for glimpses of the Ariake Sea, then switch your attention to the large windows on the Kamome Shinkansen as you approach Nagasaki's mountainous landscape. Also, if you have the JR Rail Pass, you can use it on these lines!