JR Kyushu resumed limited train service on the Kyushu Shinkansen between Hakata and Chikugo Funahoya stations on Wednesday [1].
This partial reopening marks the first step in restoring critical transport links after a massive earthquake disrupted the region's high-speed rail network. The suspension had left thousands of travelers stranded across the island.
The service resumed around 5 p.m. [3] following safety inspections of the tracks. A JR Kyushu spokesperson said, "We have resumed operations because safety has been confirmed" [1].
The limited schedule for July 29 consists of eight trains in total [2], with four running in each direction [2]. The decision to reduce the number of trains allows the company to maintain strict monitoring of the infrastructure while moving passengers.
This disruption follows a Shindo 7 earthquake that struck Kumamoto on July 28, 2026 [4]. The intensity of the quake led to an immediate suspension of all services on the line to prevent derailments and ensure passenger safety.
While the segment between Hakata Station in Fukuoka City and Chikugo Funahoya Station is now active [5], other sections of the line remain suspended. JR Kyushu is currently working to reopen the segment between Chikugo Funahoya and Kumamoto by July 30, 2026 [4].
JR Kyushu said that the entire line had been suspended due to the earthquake's impact, but limited operations were possible once the specific Hakata-Chikugo Funahoya stretch was cleared [6].
“"We have resumed operations because safety has been confirmed"”
The phased reopening of the Kyushu Shinkansen reflects the cautious approach Japanese rail operators take following high-intensity seismic events. By resuming service on the least-affected segments first, JR Kyushu can alleviate congestion at Hakata Station while continuing rigorous structural assessments in the harder-hit Kumamoto region.
