Tamate box of Shijuku

Ibusuki no Tamatebako is the name of a limited express train operated by JR Kyushu on the Kagoshima-Chuo Station to Ibusuki Station route, reaching the southernmost end of JR service in the area. You can ride by making a reservation. It departs from Kagoshima-Chuo Station and goes to Makurazaki Station. The train is designed in black and white inspired by a tamatebako (treasure box), themed around the Urashima Taro story; a distinctive feature is that smoke appears when boarding. Inside, seats use abundant cedar wood, and they are arranged so you can enjoy the scenery through the windows. There is special onboard sales unique to this train, including Ibutama pudding (crème brûlée and black sesame pudding), Kameronpan, Ibutama sweets, and Ibusuki Onsen cider. Though it’s about a one-hour short trip, a recommended way to enjoy it is to ride to Ibusuki, enjoy activities like sand baths and Ryugu Shrine, then take the train back to Kagoshima-Chuo. Access: board at JR Kagoshima-Chuo Station (or from Ibusuki Station).