The SL Hitoyoshi, Kyushu's only sightseeing train pulled by a steam locomotive, has kicked off its final season before the service is discontinued on March 23 next year.
Many railway fans gathered on Saturday for a ceremony at JR Kumamoto Station to mark the first run of the final season for the special train operated by Kyushu Railway Co. (JR Kyushu).
Produced in 1922, the SL Hitoyoshi's steam locomotive is the nation's oldest among those in commercial operation. JR Kyushu said it is becoming more difficult to secure parts and technicians necessary for the century-old locomotive's maintenance.