Takachiho Amaterasu Railway

高千穂あまてらす鉄道

4.4Est. 120Takachiho, Kyushu

JTA Approved

Overview

Open-air rail carts crossing Japan's highest railway bridge, 105m above a gorge with soap bubbles.

The Takachiho Amaterasu Railway runs a 30-passenger diesel cart along a 2.5-kilometer stretch of former rail line, passing Ama no Iwato Shrine, Aratate Shrine, and the UN-recognized Takachiho rice terraces. The journey peaks atop the Takachiho Iron Bridge, 105 meters above the gorge below, and the cart's glass floor turns that moment into something genuinely nerve-testing. The 30-minute ride departs every 40 minutes, with 10 trips daily except Thursdays. Cancellations happen in bad weather, so check conditions before making the trip out. It pairs well with visiting the nearby gorge and evening Kagura performances.

Local tips

The merchandise store usually has exclusive items only available at the venue. Worth checking even if you're not a collector.

Practical info

Japanese name: 高千穂あまてらす鉄道
Nearest station: Takachiho Bus Center (2 min walk)
Payment: Cards accepted
Reservations: Reserved seats available through the railway operator's website or at ticket offices. Book ahead for weekend departures.

Accessibility

Wheelchair parking

Good for

Families

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