Train Varieties
ASO BOY!
The train's mascot "Kuro" will welcome you! You will enjoy spectacular views of Aso from the panoramic seating at both ends of the train. In Car 3 you will find seating for families as well as a cafe and children's playroom.
NOTICE
【Notice of Operating Hours Change (from March 14, 2026)】
Starting from March 14, 2026, there will be changes to the operating hours. Please be advised if you are planning to board during this period.
For detailed information, please refer to the "Timetable" section below.
Lounge (Car-4)
This is a common area where passengers can relax on a spacious sofa or sit on a bench that faces the window so as to enjoy the view.
Panorama Section (Car-1, Car-4)
Passengers will enjoy a spectacular view of Aso through the wide front windows. The 1 x 2 seat configuration provides for spacious comfortable seating.
White "Kuro" seat
This is a unique seat for an adult and a child sitting together. The child seat is always on the window side.
Kuro Cafe
A variety of snacks and original goods are available for purchase while on the train. A low counter for children is also available.
Japanese-style Room
Children can play on the floor.
Wood-filled Pool
Children can play in a pool filled with wooden balls.
Book Collection
This is a collection of picture books. You can also find the original Kuro picture books.
Coach seats
Seats are covered with a colorful fabric.
Intro Movie
Intro Movie
See the journey through the beautiful landscapes of Kyushu.
Google Street View
Google Street View
Take a look at the Kyushu Shinkansen and D&S Train Interior.
A cabin attendant and young passengers
A cabin attendant is always by the Wood-filled Pool to watch and play with children.
A view from the Panorama Section
In addition to views of Aso, if you are interested in seeing the switchbacks from Seta to Tateno and Akamizu, a panorama seat is perfect.
Commemorative Card
All passengers will receive this card. It also has space for a stamp that will help you memorialize your trip.
The train is decorated with Kuro illustrations both inside and outside. There is Kuro in 101 different poses on the exterior of the train.
The train is decorated with Kuro illustrations both inside and outside. There is Kuro in 101 different poses on the exterior of the train.
Bento box reservation service
In-train bento boxes and some sweets are available by advance reservation only. Please make your reservation well in advance before boarding.
On-Board Sales
Nakadake Volcanic Vent
This is one of the must-see sites in Aso. Feel the power of the earth.
Nakadake is a fully active volcanic vent. You can get close to the smoking vent. A tour with an experienced and knowledgeable guide is recommended.
*The volcanic vent area may not be accessible depending on volcanic activity alert level and weather.
Aso Torimiya
“Baroquette” is a croquette made with a salty-sweet horsemeat center.
Stationmaster Kuro’s Office
Kuro welcomes you at the Aso Station. Feel free to come in the office. Kuro’s panel is available here for photos.
Station Stops and Time Table
2 round trip a day
As of January 2026
Until March 13, 2026
Kumamoto ⇒ Miyaji
Miyaji ⇒ Kumamoto
From March 14, 2026
Kumamoto ⇒ Miyaji
Miyaji ⇒ Kumamoto
*If the "ASO BOY!" service is suspended, we will operate using a different vehicle. Please note that some schedules may change.
*KYUSHU ODAN TOKKYU No.1,2,3,4,5,6 are operated daily.
Operation Schedule
- ASO BOY! in operation
- Operate as Limited Express "KAWASEMI YAMASAMI" using the "KAWASEMI YAMASEMI" vehicle (all seats reserved)
-
2026 January.
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 -
2026 February.
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 -
2026 March.
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 -
2026 April.
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 -
2026 May.
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 -
2026 June.
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
*Timetables may remain valid for only a few months.
All seats on this train are reserved seating. Smoking is prohibited on this train.
- Reserved
- Car number
ASO BOY!
Purchase a Rail Pass
You can purchase JR Kyushu Rail Passes and reserve seats on popular Kyushu trains.
One-way and round-trip tickets
Purchase one-way and round-trip tickets, reserved seats, and early discount tickets from the JR-KYUSHU Train Reservation page.
Train Lineup
Design & Story Trains (Sightseeing Trains)
Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
Other Limited Express
Original Towel
1,300 yen (tax included)
Plastic Folder
300 yen (tax included)
Button Badge
400 yen (tax included)
Kurochan Pencil Board
550 yen (tax included)
Kuro-chan Strap
600 yen (tax included)
Kids Custard Pudding
Available only on ASO BOY! trains.Being made with plenty of eggs and Jersey milk from Aso, it has a mild flavor.
400 yen (tax included)
Adult Custard Pudding
Flavored with rum, the adult-like aroma spreads softly inside the mouth at the moment when you take a bite.
400 yen (tax included)
Aso Oguni Jersey Ice Cream
Two choices are available: rich ice cream made with Jersey milk from Aso or limited-time ice cream.
400 yen (tax included)
Kuro Tote Bag
M: 3,600 yen (tax included)
S: 2,600 yen (tax included)
Set: 5,500 yen (tax included)