Nishi-Nippon Railroad and JR Kyushu Bus will begin operating overnight services on the “Sakurajima” express bus, which connects Fukuoka and Kagoshima, starting September 1. This move is intended to meet the demand for overnight travel resulting from increased tourism and rising accommodation costs; the Kagoshima-bound service will also begin stopping at the Fukuoka Airport International Departures Gate bus stop.
There will be one round trip per day, and reservations will be accepted starting at 8:00 a.m. on August 1 via the “Highway Bus.com” website, the Kyushu Expressway Bus Reservation Center (by phone), and at ticket counters at major bus terminals. One-way fares are 8,500 yen for adults and 4,250 yen for children; discounted online fares are 8,000 yen for adults and 4,000 yen for children.
The vehicle features a four-row seating arrangement with a capacity of 36 passengers, 14 of which are reserved for women. The interior is equipped with curtains separating each seat, restrooms, Wi-Fi, and smartphone charging facilities (power outlets or USB ports). During the trip, restroom breaks will be made at locations such as the Hirokawa Service Area and the Mizobe Parking Area.
This marks the first time in about six years that the Sakurajima overnight service has resumed operations since it was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, the daytime service operates 13 round trips daily between Tenjin Expressway Bus Terminal and Kagoshima Chuo Station.
© Source travel watch