JR Kyushu's sightseeing train "SL Hitoyoshi", which has been popular with many people for many years, will end operation around March next year due to aging of the locomotive.
The steam locomotive that tows the ``SL Hitoyoshi'', which will be 100 years old this year, was once scrapped in 1975, but in 1988, the ``SL Aso Boy'' running between Kumamoto Station and Miyaji Station. ” and has been loved by many tourists.
Since 2009, it has been operated as "SL Hitoyoshi" between Kumamoto Station and Hitoyoshi Station. Currently, it operates between Tosu Station and Kumamoto Station.
However, in addition to the significant aging of the vehicle, it has become difficult to secure engineers who will be in charge of maintenance, and it has been decided to end the operation around March of the year after next.
According to JR Kyushu, it is under consideration about the preservation of the vehicle after the operation ends.
JR Kyushu said, "We are deeply grateful for your patronage and support so far."