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
【Additional operations are being conducted with Non-reserved seating.】
While we typically operate with all Reserved seats, we are currently offering additional services with Non-reserved seating, primarily on weekdays. Please refer to the operating schedule for more details.
*Please note that services such as onboard sales will not be available during operations with Non-reserved seating. We appreciate your understanding.
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
1 round trip a day
As of January 2024
Kumamoto ⇒ Miyaji / Beppu
Only major stops are listed.
Beppu / Miyaji ⇒ Kumamoto
Only major stops are listed.
*ASO BOY! will be out of service when KYUSHU ODAN TOKKYU 81, 84 are in service. Please see the calendar for details.
*KYUSHU ODAN TOKKYU 2, 3 and Aso 1, 2 operate daily.
Operation Schedule
- ASO BOY! in operation
-
・Additional service days due to operational reasons
*There is no in-car service by cabin crew. All seats in Car will be used as non-reserved seats.
-
2024 August.
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 -
2024 September.
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 -
2024 October.
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 -
2024 November.
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
