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TL;DR
The Kyushu Shinkansen has resumed operations along its entire route for the first time in 52 days after a powerful July 28 earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture. Restoration work was completed on the last suspended section between Kumamoto and Shin-Minamata stations, where damage was found in over 1,000 locations.The Kyushu Shinkansen bullet train fully resumed operations on Friday, September 18, 2026, restoring service along the entire line for the first time in 52 days after a powerful earthquake struck southwestern Japan's Kumamoto Prefecture in July.
Last Section Reopens After Extensive Repairs
Restoration work was completed between Kumamoto and Shin-Minamata stations, the final section of the line that had remained suspended. The Kyushu Shinkansen halted all service following the July 28 quake, and damage was found in more than 1,000 locations, including tracks and facilities.
Phased Recovery Timeline
- Late July: Service resumed between Hakata and Kumamoto stations by the end of July.
- August 7: Operations restarted between Shin-Minamata and Kagoshima-Chuo stations.
- September 18: The Kumamoto and Shin-Minamata section reopened, restoring full-route service after 52 days.
Reduced Capacity on Through Services
Kyushu Railway Company said bullet trains connecting directly to the Sanyo Shinkansen line will operate at around 90 percent of their pre-quake capacity. The reduction is necessary because trains must slow down near Shin-Yatsushiro Station, where quake damage was severe.
Conventional Lines Still Suspended
While the Shinkansen has returned to full operation, some conventional rail services in Kumamoto Prefecture remain suspended:
- The JR Kagoshima Main Line is still suspended between Uto and Yatsushiro stations.
- The local Hisatsu Orange Railway remains suspended between Yatsushiro and Higotanoura stations.
Both operators say they aim to fully resume operations around mid-October.
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