Kumagawa Railway to resume full operations in September 2026

Kumagawa Railway is set to resume full-line operations on September 20, 2026, marking a major milestone six years after the July 2020 torrential rains caused the Kuma River to flood and severed the entire line.

To coincide with the resumption, the Kumamoto Destination Campaign Executive Committee and Kumagawa Railway will launch the ‘Kumata-bi Tourism Concierge’ on September 19, 2026. This automated LINE-based service provides 24-hour assistance for travelers in the Hitoyoshi-Kuma region. Key features include recommendations for sightseeing and gourmet spots, real-time information on local events and activities, and easy searches for business operating hours and train timetables.

The service is intended for both railway passengers and visitors traveling through the area by car or bicycle. As part of the reconstruction, two stations are being renamed: Kawamura Station in Sagara Village will become Sagara Toshima Station following relocation for flood prevention, and Higashi-Taragi Station in Taragi Town will be renamed Taragi Shorenji Station.