Traveling from Kumamoto to Shunan is primarily facilitated by the Limited Express train service, specifically the Yufu, which operates along this route. The Limited Express Yufu reaches speeds of approximately 120 km/h (75 mph) and covers the distance in about 2 hours and 20 minutes. This journey includes stops at notable stations such as Yatsushiro and Hōfu, allowing travelers to experience regional highlights.
Alternatively, the Japanese Railways also offers local train services, such as the Rapid service, but these take longer and have more frequent stops, typically extending the journey time to around 3 hours. While the Yufu Limited Express provides comfortable seating and onboard facilities, the local trains offer a more basic travel experience, catering primarily to local commuters.