Ride the Two Stars 4047 From Nagasaki to Saga: Scenic Views and Sake

Two Stars 4047: Cruising Between Nagasaki and Saga

Picture courtesy of JR Kyushu

Two Stars 4047 is a scenic sightseeing train operated by JR Kyushu. It journeys along the picturesque coastline of West Kyushu, showcasing Saga and Nagasaki prefectures—the "two stars" of the region's tourism.

The train operates exclusively from Friday through Monday, as well as on select Japanese national holidays. Its itinerary is split into distinct morning and afternoon routes, allowing passengers to experience different coastal views.

The Morning Route (Saga to Nagasaki)
- Departs from Takeo-Onsen in Saga, passes through Hizen-Hama, Tara, and Isahaya stations, and arrives at Nagasaki Station at 13:15.

The Afternoon Route (Nagasaki to Saga)
- Departs from Nagasaki Station, stops at Isahaya, Chiwata (celebrated as Nagasaki's most beautiful station), Huis Ten Bosch, and Arita stations, before concluding at Takeo-Onsen at 17:51.

Because the morning and afternoon routes feature different stops and scenery, you can easily book them back-to-back for a seamless, same-day round trip.

Fares and Pass Value

Picture courtesy of JR Kyushu Railway Company

Ticket prices vary slightly by route: the morning service is 4,680 yen, while the afternoon service is 5,000 yen.

If you hold a JR Kyushu Rail Pass, you can ride entirely free of charge! Because the Two Stars 4047 consists only of reserved seating, the pass also covers your seat reservation fee at no extra cost, making it an incredible value.

Train Layout and Seating Tips

The Two Stars 4047 is a three-car train designed with a unique layout:

- Cars 1 and 3: Dedicated to regular reserved passenger seating.

- Car 2 (Lounge 40): A shared lounge and buffet car, meaning only two cars are actually used for passenger seating.

Among the available options, the counter seats facing the windows are the most popular.

Because seating is limited and window-facing views are highly sought after, be sure to reserve your seats immediately after receiving your rail pass.

Two Stars 4047 Official Website: https://www.jrkyushu.co.jp/english/train/two_stars4047.html

Savor Authentic Sake During the Ride

The train makes several brief stops along its journey, including a 17-minute layover at Hizen-Hama Station on the morning route. During this stop, local residents set up stalls right on the platform to sell unique regional specialties, including premium Japanese sake.

If you step off the train, we highly recommend heading to HAMA BAR—a stylish sake bar located right next to the platform—where you can sample some of Saga's finest local brews.

Saga has been renowned for its sake brewing since ancient times, and at HAMA BAR, you can sample the region's famous Nabeshima sake at an incredibly affordable price. For just 1,500 yen, you can enjoy a tasting flight of five different Saga-produced Daiginjo sakes, which is a fantastic deal.

If you decide to extend your stay to explore the area, the nearby Hizen Hamashuku offers a nostalgic, historic street perfect for touring local breweries.

You can also visit the stunning Yutoku Inari Shrine—celebrated as one of Japan's top three Inari shrines—which is easily accessible by a local bus or a 2,000-yen taxi ride.

Local residents sell regional specialties on the platform when the train stops, including Saga sake, which you can purchase to drink on board during your journey.

A corner of the platform still retains its charming, old-fashioned atmosphere.

We highly recommend visiting HAMA BAR. Since regular train services also stop at this station, it is a great spot to step off and do some sightseeing.

Here, you can enjoy Saga’s famous Nabeshima sake. For just 1,500 yen, you can sample a flight of five different Saga-produced Daiginjo sakes, offering incredible value for your money.

Head to Takeo Onsen to Enjoy Ancient Hot Springs

Because both the morning and afternoon services of the Two Stars 4047 begin and end their journeys at Takeo-Onsen in Saga, you have total flexibility when planning your itinerary.

You can explore Saga first before heading to Nagasaki, visit Nagasaki first, or book a same-day round trip and stay overnight at Takeo-Onsen. This ancient hot spring town, with a recorded history dating back 1,300 years, is highly recommended for an overnight stay.

Several major attractions are located within a convenient 20-minute walk from Takeo-Onsen Station, including the iconic Takeo-Onsen Romon (Tower Gate) and its day-use public baths, Takeo Shrine, and the beautifully designed Takeo City Library.

To accommodate the Kyushu Shinkansen, the train station underwent a major makeover, significantly expanding its platforms and interior.

Today, the station features two brand-new facilities: the Takeo Travel Bookstore and the Takeo City Tourist Information Center, making it an excellent and welcoming starting point for travelers.

The Takeo Travel Bookstore curates a trendy, youth-oriented selection of souvenirs from across Saga and Nagasaki.

In contrast, the Takeo City Tourist Information Center specializes in more traditional Saga crafts and local goods, allowing you to easily browse and choose according to your preference.

Nagasaki's Unique Station: Chiwata Station

Japan boasts several unique railway stations that skyrocketed to fame after being featured on the iconic promotional posters for the Seishun 18 Ticket. However, because regular train services to these locations are usually infrequent, most remain difficult to reach.

Fortunately, the Two Stars 4047 takes passengers directly to Chiwata Station, one of Nagasaki’s most celebrated coastal stops, which famously appeared on the winter 2014 Seishun 18 Ticket poster.

Located on the JR Kyushu Omura Line, this wooden station building originally opened in 1928 and brims with nostalgic charm.

After becoming unstaffed in 1971, ownership was transferred to Higashisonogi Town, and in 1993, it was beautifully remodeled to restore and preserve its original, historic appearance.

Enjoy Exploring Kyushu by Sightseeing Train

Kyushu features an impressive variety of unique sightseeing trains.

In addition to offering an exceptional rail travel experience, these trains provide access to remote, otherwise hard-to-reach stations and foster meaningful connections with local residents, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the regional culture.