Welcome to Kyushu! Fukuoka (Hakata) is the gateway to this island, and Nagasaki is one of the most popular destinations to visit from there.
However, since the new Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen opened in 2022, the route between these two cities has become a bit complicated.
“Should I take the fast Shinkansen (with a transfer)? Or the cheap Highway Bus (direct)?”
As a Local Insider, I have compared the two options based on Time, Cost, and Efficiency.
Here is the data-driven answer to help you decide.
1. The “Cheat Sheet”: Quick Comparison Table
Don’t have time to read? Here is the summary based on data.
| Feature | Option A: Shinkansen | Option B: Highway Bus |
| Best For… | Speed Lovers / JR Pass Holders | Budget Travelers / Big Luggage |
| Time | ~1 hr 30 min (Fastest) | ~2 hr 30 min |
| Cost | ~6,050 JPY (Standard) | ~2,900 JPY (Cheapest) |
| Transfer | Required (at Takeo-Onsen) | None (Direct) |
| Comfort | High (Legroom & Smooth) | Medium (Standard Bus Seat) |
| Reliability | High (Punctual) | Medium (Traffic Jams possible) |
(Sho’s Verdict)
- Choose Shinkansen if you want to save time (1 hour faster) or have a JR Pass.
- Choose Bus if you want to save money and avoid transferring with heavy bags.
2. Option A: The Shinkansen (Fastest & Efficient)
If you value time efficiency, the train is the winner. However, there is one trick: It is not a direct train.
The Route (The “Relay” System)
Since the Shinkansen track is not fully connected to Hakata yet, you need to transfer once.
- Hakata St. → Take the “Relay Kamome” Limited Express.
- Takeo-Onsen St. → Transfer to the “Kamome” Shinkansen.
- Nagasaki St. → Arrive!
Is the transfer difficult?
No. It is the easiest transfer in the world.
- Same Platform: The Relay Kamome arrives, and the Shinkansen is waiting right on the opposite track of the same platform.
- No Ticket Gate: You do NOT need to pass through any ticket gates at Takeo-Onsen. Just walk 10 steps across the platform.
- Time: You have about 3 minutes, which is plenty of time even with luggage.
★ Secret Tips for Smart Travelers
Here are two secrets that only locals know. These will make your trip much cheaper and more comfortable.
Secret 1: How to ride for almost the same price as the Bus
Normally, the Shinkansen ticket costs about 6,050 JPY. However, if you book 7 days in advance, you can get a huge discount.
- Ticket Name: “Kamome Net Hayatoku 7”
- Price: Approx. 3,400 JPY (vs. Normal 6,050 JPY)
- Prerequisite: You must register as a JR Kyushu Web Member (Free).
- How to buy: After registering, book via the JR Kyushu Online Booking website.
- Note: You cannot buy this discount ticket at the station counter. If you miss the 7-day window, there is also a “3-day advance (Hayatoku 3)” ticket for about 3,850 JPY.
Secret 2: The “Hidden” Best Seat (Car No. 4)
When you take the first train from Hakata (Relay Kamome), try to book a seat in Car No. 4.
But be careful! This only applies to the “Black Train” (787 Series).
This car used to be a Buffet Car (dining car), so it has a unique layout:
- Ultra-Spacious: The legroom is even wider than the Green Car (First Class).
- Unique Vibe: High ceilings and a retro atmosphere.
- Luggage Space: Because there are fewer seats, it is less crowded and has plenty of room for suitcases.
- How to book: Look for the “Relay Kamome (787)” or the “Black Train” icon on the booking site.
⚠️ Important: How to Board (Ticket vs. QR Code)
When you book online, you have two ways to board:
- Physical Ticket (Recommended): Pick up your ticket at the “Green Ticket Machine” or counter at Hakata Station using your Credit Card and Reservation Number.
- QR Code (Ticketless): Log in to the booking site and issue a “QR Ticket.” Scan it at the gate.
- Warning: Please maximize your screen brightness. If your phone battery dies, you cannot exit the station!
3. Option B: Highway Bus “Kyushu-Go” (Cheap & Direct)
The Highway Bus, named “Kyushu-Go”, is a very popular choice for locals and budget travelers.
The Route
- Hakata Bus Terminal → Nagasaki Station (Direct)
📍 Where is the Bus Stop?
The bus does NOT depart from the main train station building.
You must go to the “Hakata Bus Terminal”, which is a separate building right next to Hakata Station (Hakata Exit side).
- Go to the 3rd Floor (3F).
- Look for the “Nagasaki” boarding gate (usually Gate 37 or 38, but please check the screen).
Pros:
- No Transfers: Once you sit down, you can sleep until Nagasaki. Great for travelers with heavy luggage.
- Cost Performance: It costs about 2,900 JPY (Web discount/Pair ticket), which is half the price of the regular Shinkansen fare.
- Connectivity: Most buses have Free Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Cons:
- Slower (2.5 hours).
- Risk of traffic jams (especially on weekends or due to accidents).
4. Sho’s Recommendation: Which one should you pick?
As a local resident, here is how I decide:
Scenario A: “I have a JR Pass”
→ Definitely the Shinkansen. It is free for you, and the experience of the new train (Kamome) is beautiful.
Scenario B: “I have heavy luggage and want to save money”
→ Take the Bus. The transfer at Takeo-Onsen is easy, but carrying two big suitcases can still be stressful. The bus takes you door-to-door without moving.
Scenario C: “I booked 1 week in advance”
→ Take the Shinkansen (Hayatoku 7). It costs almost the same as the bus but is much faster and more comfortable.
Welcome to Nagasaki! (Arrival Tips)
- Shinkansen Arrival: You will arrive at the new Nagasaki Station. The ticket gate is on the 1st floor.
- Bus Arrival: The bus drops you off at the “Nagasaki Station Bus Stop,” which is on the main road just outside the station.
- Getting to the City Center: To go to Chinatown or the Spectacles Bridge, take the Streetcar (Blue Line) from “Nagasaki Eki-mae” stop.
Next Step: Once you settle in, check out my guide on [Best 1-Day Itinerary in Nagasaki (Coming Soon)].
📩 Have a question?
If you are still confused about the timetable, booking, or platform locations, please leave a comment below!
I check this blog regularly and will do my best to verify the data and answer your questions.
Disclaimer: The information in this guide is current as of January 2026. Prices and schedules are subject to change, so please check the official websites before your trip.
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