SL Hitoyoshi


The SL Hitoyoshi is a steam hauled excursion train operated by the Kyushu Railway Company on the Kagoshima Main Line and the Hisatsu Line since April 2009.

Overview

The SL Hitoyoshi runs a return journey between Kumamoto and Hitoyoshi once a day on weekends and national holidays from March to November. The train was inaugurated to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the completion of the Hisatsu Line. A reserved seat must be made prior to boarding. The train stops at Shin-Yatsushiro, Yatsushiro, Sakamoto, Shiroishi, Isshōchi, and Watari.

Rolling stock

The SL Hitoyoshi consists of an 8620 Class steam locomotive and three specially modified OHa 50 series carriages. The interior design of the carriages was done by industrial designer Eiji Mitooka.
On occasion the train is assisted or hauled by a Class DE10 diesel locomotive.

Exterior

The train livery is painted chocolate with grey roofs and SL Hitoyoshi motifs and lettering in gold.