Discover the New Allure of the Hisatsu Line: JR Kyushu’s ‘Isshoichi’ and ‘Obata’ Keyrings & the ‘Hayato no Kaze’ Choro-Q Are Creating a Buzz

As we move into the latter half of March, a proper sense of spring is finally beginning to settle in the mountainous areas of Kyushu. I took a trip out to Hitoyoshi last weekend for the first time in a while and was surprised to find the station area much busier than usual. Apparently, JR Kyushu has released new accessories inspired by stations on the Hisatsu Line, along with a nostalgic pull-back toy car. I simply had to go and have a proper look. This is bound to catch the attention not just of railway enthusiasts, but anyone with a fondness for this line.

A Breath of Fresh Air for the Hisatsu Line, a Symbol of Revival

The Hisatsu Line is renowned for boasting one of Japan’s top three train window views. The scenery along the clear waters of the Kuma River is the kind that refreshes your spirit every time you see it. The bustling atmosphere when sightseeing trains like the SL Hitoyoshi, Isaburō-Shinpei, and the Hayato no Kaze were running is still fondly remembered. Although the line faced a lengthy suspension following the devastating floods of 2020, efforts towards its restoration are steadily progressing. It’s in this context that the JR Kyushu Hisatsu Line “Isshoichi” Keyring and JR Kyushu Hisatsu Line “Obata” Keyring have arrived. It feels particularly significant that these locally-rooted items are now in our hands precisely at this moment.

The Unique Character of Isshoichi and Obata, Right in the Palm of Your Hand

Taking them in my hand, the craftsmanship on these keyrings is quite impressive. Isshoichi Station, with its wooden building, has a wonderfully timeless atmosphere. That sense of nostalgia is beautifully captured in a brass-finished plate. The station name in Roman script, accented with the Hisatsu Line’s red, adds a subtle touch of style.

• “Isshoichi” Model: Features a silhouette of the railway bridge spanning the Kuma River, evoking the feeling of a refreshing river breeze.
• “Obata” Model: Depicts the unique topography of what was Japan’s only location featuring both a loop line and a switchback. The engraving, inspired by the switchback tracks, has a wonderfully understated, rugged appeal.

Honestly, if you’ve ever actually visited these stations, you’ll immediately recognise the difference in atmosphere. The serene basin scenery around Isshoichi contrasts with the secluded, mountainous feel of Obata. These two distinct charms are captured in each keyring. Clipping one to your rucksack zipper or car rear-view mirror feels like keeping a piece of your travel memories close by, and that’s a rather nice feeling.

That “Choro-Q” is Back! The Sense of Speed of the “Hayato no Kaze”

And another highlight from this announcement that can’t be overlooked is the Choro-Q Hisatsu Line Hayato no Kaze. For those in the know, this is bound to elicit an exclamation – it’s a true icon of railway toys. It takes you back to those childhood days of buying them at corner sweet shops. Now, as an adult, you can get your hands on one again.

This particular release is a special model of the “Hayato no Kaze” sightseeing train. It perfectly captures the distinctive blue livery with gold stripes, the large front windows, and even the observation deck at the rear. Give it a push across your desk, and it’s as if you can picture it gliding effortlessly through the Hitoyoshi Basin. I completely understand the urge for anyone who collected them as a child to treat themselves to a “grown-up purchase” now. It feels like this is becoming more than just a toy – it’s evolving into a kind of “cultural artefact” that carries the memory of the Hisatsu Line.

Why Railway Merchandise for the Hisatsu Line, Now?

As someone with local ties, this development stirs a fair bit of emotion. Of course, it has its aspect as a product aimed at tourists. But more than that, I sense a desire to tangibly express the value of having a railway line running through this land. Last year, at a railway event held in front of Hitoyoshi Station, high school students were passionately sharing the charms of the line. It feels like that energy has now come to fruition in the form of these goods.

In fact, while making a purchase at the station shop, I saw an elderly local man buying a keyring for his grandson, explaining, “This train was running long before you were born.” Seeing little everyday moments like that, you realise these items might be transcending their role as mere “train merchandise” to serve as a kind of “keepsake” connecting generations.

With the spring travel season upon us, if you’re planning a visit along the Hisatsu Line, I’d highly recommend taking a look at the station counters and buildings. I’m sure the JR Kyushu Hisatsu Line “Isshoichi” Keyring, the “Obata” Keyring, and the Choro-Q will add an extra special touch to your travel memories. I think I’ll pick up an Obata version too, and keep it tucked away in my car’s key case until my next journey.