The Shimabara area is serviced by the Shimabara Railway (aka Shimatetsu) up until Isahaya, after which you will continue on the JR line.
Shimabarako Station (島原港駅)
- Formerly known as “Shimabaragaiko” station.
Shimabarako is a simple 5-minute walk from the port. All services here will go to Isahaya, so all you need to do is get on and ride. Shimatetsu provides a guide for riding the train, but it’s very similar to trams you’ll find elsewhere. Get on, grab a number ticket, then submit it with your payment when you get off.
Note that Shimatetsu DOES NOT accept IC card. Bring cash with you. You don’t need exact change since the fare box will give change.
The ride to Isahaya takes ~75 minutes and costs 1540¥.
Isahaya Station (諫早駅)
Isahaya connects to Nagasaki via the Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen and the Nagasaki Main Line. Follow signs for Nagasaki. It’s the last stop on either line. Boarding for Nagasaki is on platforms 12 (Shinkansen), 1, 2, and 3 (Nagasaki Line).
| Service | Destination | Fare | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shinkansen (Any) | Nagasaki | 560¥ Base / 870¥ Non-Reserved (1430¥) | 8min |
| Rapid | Nagasaki | 560¥ | ~26min |
| Local | Nagasaki | 560¥ | ~34min |
Nagasaki Station
Shimabarako → Isahaya = ~75 min, 1540¥
Total Travel Costs:
Shinkansen: ~83 min, 2970¥
Regular trains: ~101-109min, 2100¥