Timetable, Fares, and Ticket Purchasing Information for the Limited Express Train "ISHIZUCHI"

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR Shikoku Limited Express "ISHIZUCHI," which connects Takamatsu Station and Matsuyama Station. It includes timetables, fares for representative sections, stops served, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. As it serves as an access train to Mount Ishizuchi and Dogo Onsen, this article summarizes key points to check before your trip.
The information in this article is current as of July 2026. Operating days, timetables, fares, and ticket sales conditions may change, so please check the latest information on Ekitan or the railway company's official website before using the service.
The "ISHIZUCHI" is a JR Shikoku Limited Express train connecting Takamatsu Station and Matsuyama Station via the JR Yosan Line. The train's name comes from Mount Ishizuchi, the highest peak in western Japan. Some services operate in conjunction with the "Shiokaze," which departs from and arrives in Okayama, with the trains being split and merged at Utazu Station. The trains used are the 8600 series and 8000 series electric trains. Since there are unreserved seats, you can easily board without a reservation. It plays an important role in connecting Takamatsu and Matsuyama, two major cities in Shikoku. There are other trains with similar names and destinations, so it's a good idea to check the departure information display for the correct train name and destination before boarding.

What is "ISHIZUCHI"?

"ISHIZUCHI" is a JR Shikoku Limited Express train named after Mount Ishizuchi, the highest peak in western Japan. Mount Ishizuchi has an elevation of 1,982 meters and is counted as one of Japan's seven sacred mountains. The JR Yosan Line is a major line along the northern coast of Shikoku, running from Takamatsu Station through Matsuyama to Uwajima. Some "ISHIZUCHI" trains are operated in conjunction with the "Shiokaze" train, which originates and terminates in Okayama. This combined operation efficiently meets demand from both within Shikoku and from Honshu.

Train features and popular points

The appeal of the "ISHIZUCHI" train lies in its convenient connection between Takamatsu and Matsuyama, two major cities in Shikoku. Dogo Onsen is a famous hot spring, considered one of the oldest in Japan. The Dogo Onsen Main Building is a magnificent three-story wooden building designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Matsuyama Castle is a castle with an existing keep, and you can reach the summit by ropeway. Mount Ishizuchi is the highest peak in western Japan and a popular mountain for hikers. Imabari is known as a towel production area and is the gateway to the Shikoku side of the Shimanami Kaido. Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu is a beautiful garden designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. The 8600 series train features a retro-modern exterior design. Checking the stops and travel time before boarding will make it easier to plan an itinerary that includes stops along the way. The view from the train window changes greatly depending on the season, so it is recommended to choose the time of year according to your purpose.

"ISHIZUCHI" Timetable

Downbound (Towards Matsuyama Station) Timetable

Upbound (Towards Takamatsu Station) Timetable

The "ISHIZUCHI" operates more than ten round trips a day. Since the schedule may change depending on the season and timetable revisions, it's best to check the latest schedule on the Ekitan website before boarding. There are more trains during the morning and evening rush hours, while the intervals between trains may be longer during the daytime. If you have connecting trains or buses, it's advisable to choose connections that allow ample time before your arrival.

• Limited Express Price, Ticket and Timetable - ekitan

Important Information Regarding Operating Days and Service Suspensions

The "ISHIZUCHI" operates daily throughout the year. Some services are coupled with the "Shiokaze," with the two trains being split and merged at Utazu Station. On coupled services, it is necessary to check which car you will be boarding.

"ISHIZUCHI" Operating Sections

Main Sections

• Takamatsu Station – Utazu Station (JR Yosan Line)
• Utazu Station – Imabari Station (JR Yosan Line)
• Imabari Station – Matsuyama Station (JR Yosan Line)

Matsuyama Station is the gateway to Matsuyama tourism. Dogo Onsen can be accessed by tram from within Matsuyama city. Dogo Onsen Main Building is known for its dignified wooden architecture. Matsuyama Castle is a castle with an existing keep and offers panoramic views of the city. Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu is a garden designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. From Imabari, you can enjoy cycling along the Shimanami Kaido. Niihama is known for Minepia Besshi, which tells the history of the Besshi Copper Mine. Since travel to surrounding tourist attractions is mainly by bus or on foot, it is a good idea to check local transportation options in advance. There are often tourist information centers around the station where you can obtain maps and brochures. For lines with limited service, it is reassuring to check the return train and bus schedules as well. Mount Ishizuchi can be accessed by ropeway from Iyo-Saijo.

"ISHIZUCHI" Stops

Main Stops

• Takamatsu Station
• Sakaide Station
• Utazu Station
• Kannonji Station
• Niihama Station
• Imabari Station
• Matsuyama Station

"ISHIZUCHI" Fares

Representative Section Fares

Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Limited Express Surcharge

The fare for the "ISHIZUCHI" is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the limited express surcharge. The limited express surcharge differs between reserved and unreserved seats, with reserved seats being slightly more expensive. When purchasing tickets, make sure you have both the basic fare ticket and the limited express surcharge. JR's limited express surcharges are set according to the distance traveled, and the amount may vary depending on whether it is a regular season, peak season, or off-peak season. The fare is divided into the "basic fare" for the journey to your destination and the "limited express surcharge" for riding the Limited Express train. Note that you cannot ride the Limited Express train with just a basic fare ticket; you must purchase both.

Combined Operation with "Shiokaze"

Some "ISHIZUCHI" services operate coupled with "Shiokaze" (originating and terminating in Okayama) at Utazu Station. On these coupled services, the train sets are split and merged at Utazu Station. If you board the wrong car, you may end up going in a different direction than your destination. Be sure to check the car number and destination before boarding.

How to Buy Tickets for "ISHIZUCHI"

e5489 (Online Reservation)

JR West's online reservation service, "e5489," allows you to purchase reserved seats using a credit card. Reserved seats go on sale one month prior to the travel date at 10:00 AM. When making a reservation, you specify the travel date, route, train name, and number of passengers, and then select your seats. In addition to credit cards, cash is also accepted depending on the purchase method. Changes and refunds after booking are subject to certain conditions and fees.

Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and Ticket Offices

You can purchase reserved seat Limited Express tickets at the station's reserved seat ticket vending machines or at the Midori-no-madoguchi. If you wish to use an unreserved seat, you only need to purchase a basic fare ticket and a Limited Express Surcharge (Unreserved Seat). Ticket vending machines often support multiple languages, making them easy to use even if you don't understand Japanese. At the ticket office, simply tell the staff your destination and desired departure time, and they will guide you to the appropriate train. Ticket offices can get crowded during peak seasons, so it's best to go with plenty of time to spare.

Travel Agencies

Major travel agencies offer travel packages that combine accommodation in Dogo Onsen with train travel.

How to Buy for International Tourists

The "ISHIZUCHI" is operated by JR Shikoku, so it can be used with the JR Pass or other passes for the Shikoku Area. Even when using a pass, you will need to obtain a separate seat reservation ticket if you wish to use a reserved seat. Unreserved seats can be used with the pass alone. Some station ticket offices offer information in foreign languages. Special tickets for international tourists may have limited purchase conditions and sales locations, so it is advisable to check before traveling.

Is a Physical Ticket Required?

Tickets purchased through online reservations may require you to pick up a paper ticket. Please check the reservation completion screen to see if you are eligible for a ticketless product and to see how to receive your ticket. If you need to pick up a paper ticket, please complete the procedure at a designated ticket machine or ticket office before boarding.

Can IC Cards or Credit Card Touch Payments Be Used?

IC cards may be usable on some sections around Takamatsu and Matsuyama. However, some sections of the JR Yosan Line are outside the IC card coverage area. Transportation IC cards can sometimes be used across regions through the nationwide interoperability service. However, the usable area is determined by each railway company, so be sure to check in advance whether your journey is within their coverage area.

Contactless payment via credit card is not available for boarding at ticket gates.

"ISHIZUCHI" Seating Information

Seat Types

The "ISHIZUCHI" is operated using 8600 series and 8000 series trains and consists of reserved and unreserved seats in ordinary cars. During peak seasons, seats fill up quickly, so it's best to book early once your travel dates are decided. When booking, you may be able to choose between window and aisle seats. If you want to sit together with your travel companions, booking together makes it easier to secure adjacent seats.

Distinctive Seating

The 8600 series features a retro-modern design and an air-spring type body tilting system. The 8000 series has a pendulum function, allowing it to maintain speed even on curves. Some seats have power outlets, which is convenient for charging devices during travel. From seats on the ocean side, you can enjoy views of the Seto Inland Sea in some sections. The view changes depending on the direction of travel, so it's a good idea to check the seat location when making a reservation. Window seats are suitable if you want to enjoy the scenery, while aisle seats are suitable if you prioritize ease of boarding and alighting. For long journeys, it's best to check the seat location in advance and make a reservation for a more comfortable experience.

Large Luggage Storage

Luggage racks may be provided at the ends of the train cars.

Accessibility Features

Wheelchair-accessible seating is available within the train. If you wish to use it, we recommend contacting a JR Shikoku ticket office in advance. Multipurpose rooms and wheelchair-accessible facilities may vary depending on the train car and train set.

Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and In-Train Dining on "ISHIZUCHI"

There is no in-car sales service on the "ISHIZUCHI". If you would like to enjoy a meal, it is recommended to prepare in advance at a shop at Takamatsu Station. In Kagawa Prefecture, Sanuki udon noodles are a nationally renowned specialty. In Matsuyama, sea bream rice (Tai-meshi), five-colored somen noodles (Goshiki Somen), and fried fish cakes (Jakoten) are local specialties. Since the shop at the station may have limited operating hours, it is best to stop by early. There is a wide variety of ekiben (station bento boxes), so it is fun to take some time to choose before boarding. If you eat or drink on the train, please be considerate of others by avoiding foods with strong odors, etc., to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. Dispose of empty containers and trash in the trash cans on the train or in the trash cans at the station after disembarking.

Points to Note When Riding "ISHIZUCHI"

The "ISHIZUCHI" sometimes operates coupled with the "Shiokaze". Be sure to check which car you board, as boarding the wrong car may take you to a different destination. If you use the unreserved seats, you may not be able to find a seat during peak seasons. To get to Dogo Onsen, take the tram from Matsuyama Station. Due to the tilting mechanism, you may feel some shaking in sections with many curves. During peak seasons, both the station and the tram will be crowded, so allow plenty of time. Before boarding, check the train name, car number, and seat number written on your ticket. If you are bringing large luggage, please use the luggage racks or overhead compartments so as not to block the aisle. Onboard, it is good manners to keep phone calls to a minimum so as not to disturb other passengers.

Since there is no onboard service, please prepare any meals you plan to eat before boarding. It is also a good idea to check the train's operating status on Ekitan or the railway company's official website before boarding.

Summary

The "ISHIZUCHI" is a JR Shikoku Limited Express train that connects Takamatsu Station and Matsuyama Station via the JR Yosan Line. It connects major cities in Shikoku and serves as a means of transportation for trips to Dogo Onsen and Matsuyama Castle. Since some services are coupled with the "Shiokaze," be sure to check which car you will be boarding.

Enjoy a journey across Shikoku on the "ISHIZUCHI," named after the highest peak in western Japan.

Ekitan Travel Media Editorial Department

The Ekitan Travel Media editorial team provides information on transportation in Japan, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), regular trains, intercity travel, and access to tourist destinations. We also offer easy-to-understand travel information for international visitors to Japan.
This article is published by Ekitan Co., Ltd., the provider of the train transfer information service "Ekitan," and is based on Japanese railway and transportation information. Ekitan's website and app are used by over 10 million users per month.