"SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR Shikoku sightseeing train "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI," which connects Tadotsu Station, Kotohira Station, and Oboke Station. It includes timetables, fares for representative sections, stations where the train stops, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, whether ticket issuance is required, and IC card compatibility. This sightseeing train offers stunning views of the Iya Valley and Oboke Gorge, along with local history and food culture. 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 "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" is a JR Shikoku sightseeing train that debuted in April 2017, connecting Tadotsu Station, Kotohira Station, and Oboke Station via the Dosan Line. Located in the "heart of Shikoku," this sightseeing train is themed around the thousand-year history and food culture of the Iya Valley and Oboke Gorge area, and is operated using specially modified diesel railcars. All seats are reserved and equivalent to Green Car seats. Since its launch, it has been known as a train with many repeat customers, and its meal plans have been particularly highly rated among Japanese sightseeing trains. The dedicated train operates in a two-car formation, and the interior is unified with a sense of grandeur using a lot of wood. The selection of the operating section also reflects the aim of regional development, and events are sometimes held in cooperation with the local municipalities along the line.
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Train Name | "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" |
| Operating Company | JR Shikoku |
| Main Operating Sections | Tadotsu Station/Kotohira Station to Oboke Station (via the Dosan Line) |
| Main Starting/Ending Stations | Tadotsu Station / Kotohira Station / Oboke Station |
| Number of Services | Limited operating days, two services per day (morning and afternoon). |
| Estimated Travel Time | Kotohira to Oboke: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Seating | All Reserved Seats (Green Car equivalent fare) |
Table of Contents
- What is "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI"?
- Timetable for "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI"
- Operating Section of "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI"
- Stations where "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" Stops
- Fares for "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI"
- How to Buy Tickets for "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI"
- Is a Physical Ticket Required?
- Can IC Cards or Credit Card Touch Payments Be Used?
- Seating Information for "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI"
- Enjoy Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and In-Train Gourmet Food on the "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" Train.
- Points to Note When Riding "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI"
- Summary
What is "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI"?
"SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" is a sightseeing train operated by JR Shikoku that debuted on April 8, 2017. Based on the concept of "an adult's leisure trip," it is designed to allow passengers to enjoy the thousand-year history of the Iya Valley and Oboke Gorge area, as well as the region's rich food culture. The morning service is nicknamed "Sora no Sato Kikou" (Journey to the Village of the Sky), and the afternoon service is nicknamed "Shiawase no Sato Kikou" (Journey to the Village of Happiness), with different meal plans offered for each. "An adult's leisure trip" is a concept that modernizes the leisure culture that has continued since the Edo period, proposing a relaxed trip for adults. The name "Sennen Monogatari" (A Thousand-Year Story) embodies the wish that passengers experience the history, culture, and nature that this region has nurtured for over a thousand years during their journey.
Train features and popular points
The appeal of the "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" lies in the magnificent beauty of the Oboke Gorge and the luxurious meal plan offered on board. The dishes, which make ample use of local ingredients, are developed in close cooperation with local producers, allowing passengers to enjoy a luxurious time along with the spectacular scenery from the train windows. The interior of the dedicated carriages is decorated with motifs inspired by the torii gate of Kotohira Shrine and the Kazurabashi Bridge of Iya Valley. Onboard, meals incorporating the concept of "whole food," which values connections with local farmers and producers, are sometimes served. The thrilling experience of crossing the Kazurabashi Bridge is an unforgettable experience for many tourists. The onboard attendants provide commentary along the route, introducing legends of the Heike clan refugees and local folk tales, further enhancing the travel atmosphere.
Timetable for "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI"
Downbound (towards Oboke) timetable
| Station | Sora no Sato Kikou (Morning Service) |
|---|---|
| Tadotsu Dep. | Morning |
| Kotohira Dep. | ― |
| Oboke Arr. | Approx. 1 hr 30 min later |
Upbound (towards Tadotsu) timetable
| Station | Shiawase no Sato Kikou (Afternoon Service) |
|---|---|
| Oboke Dep. | Afternoon |
| Kotohira Dep. | ― |
| Tadotsu Arr. | Approx. 1 hr 30 min later |
The "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" operates two services on its operating days: the morning service "Sora no Sato Kikou" and the afternoon service "Shiawase no Sato Kikou". The morning service is basically from Tadotsu/Kotohira to Oboke, and the afternoon service is from Oboke to Kotohira/Tadotsu.
Important information regarding operating days and days when the service is suspended.
The "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" is a sightseeing train with limited operating days. It mainly operates on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, and details can be found on the JR Shikoku official website. The Dosan Line runs through mountainous areas, so operations may be affected by severe weather.
Operating Section of "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI"
Main sections
- Tadotsu Station - Kotohira Station - Oboke Station (via Dosan Line)
Oboke Station is a tourist base for the Oboke and Koboke Gorge, considered one of Japan's three most beautiful gorges. From Oboke Station, you can also access the Iya Valley's Kazurabashi Bridge and the Iya region, where legends of the Heike clan's refugees remain, by bus. The Oboke and Koboke Gorge are gorges formed by the erosion of geological strata approximately 200 million years old, and you can experience their power up close by taking a sightseeing boat. In the Iya region, the legend of the Heike clan's refugees remains strong, and a unique mountain village culture thrives. The Dosan Line from Kotohira Town to Oboke Station also runs along the Yoshino River in some sections, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful flow of the river throughout the seasons. During the autumn foliage season in the Iya Valley, the entire gorge is dyed in a variety of colors, offering the most beautiful scenery of the year.
Stations where "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" Stops
Main stops
- Tadotsu Station
- Kotohira Station
- Oboke Station
Access to Iya Valley and Kazurabashi Bridge from Oboke Station
From Oboke Station, you can reach Iya's Kazurabashi Bridge, Iya Valley, and the Peeing Boy statue using local buses, sightseeing buses, or taxis. Since the distances in the mountainous areas are long and bus services are limited, be sure to check for connections immediately upon arrival. Sightseeing boats operate in Oboke Gorge during certain seasons, allowing you to view the valley from the water. If you are staying at Iya Onsen, it's helpful to check the hotel's shuttle service policies. Road conditions can change during winter and after heavy rain, so plan your trip with ample time.
Fares for "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI"
Representative section fare
| Section | Total Fare (Adult, Estimated) | Basic Fare Ticket | Green Car Fare Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kotohira Station to Oboke Station | A basic fare ticket, Limited Express Ticket, and Green Car Ticket are required. Please check the latest fares on Ekitan or the JR Shikoku official website. | ― | ― |
Breakdown of tickets and fares
To ride the "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" train, you will need a basic fare ticket, a Limited Express Ticket, and a Green Car Ticket. All seats are reserved Green Car seats; there are no unreserved seats.
Price of meal plan
Both the morning "Sora no Sato Kikou" and the afternoon "Shiawase no Sato Kikou" offer meal plans (course meals) that require advance reservations. In addition to the train ticket and seat fee, a separate meal fee is required, and you can enjoy special dishes made with local ingredients. The Iya Kazurabashi Bridge is a suspension bridge woven from the vines of a plant called Shirakuchikazura, and is counted as one of Japan's three most unusual bridges. Iya soba noodles are traditionally made using a 100% buckwheat noodle method without any binding agents, and are characterized by their simple yet flavorful taste. Yoshino River rafting is also a popular activity in the Oboke and Koboke areas, where you can enjoy the gorge from the water.
Recommended 1-night, 2-day itinerary
On the first day, we will visit Kotohira Shrine in Kotohira and stay overnight at Kotohira Onsenkyo. On the second day, we will board the "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" train from Tadotsu/Kotohira, enjoying a pre-booked meal and the scenery of the Yoshino River and Oboke Gorge from the train window. After arriving at Oboke Station, we will head to a sightseeing boat or Iya Valley. If you plan to visit Iya Valley, it is more convenient to stay overnight in the Oboke/Iya area rather than returning to the city on the same day, as this will allow for more flexibility in travel.
How to Buy Tickets for "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI"
Midori-no-madoguchi and Major Travel Agencies
Tickets, Limited Express Tickets, and Green Car Tickets for the "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" train can be purchased at Midori-no-madoguchi nationwide and major travel agencies. Please check the JR Shikoku official website for sales conditions and meal reservation methods.
Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and Midori-no-madoguchi
You can purchase basic fare tickets, Limited Express Tickets, and Green Car Tickets at Midori-no-madoguchi and other ticket offices. All seats are reserved, so please reserve your seat before boarding.
Travel Agencies
Major travel agencies also offer tour packages that include reserved seating tickets and meal plans for the "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" train.
How to Purchase for Foreign Tourists
The "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" train consists entirely of reserved Green Car seats. Even when using a JR Pass, depending on the type of pass, you may need to purchase additional tickets such as Limited Express Tickets and Green Car Tickets. Please check the applicable sections and additional charges in advance.
Procedures for booking passes and meals for foreign tourists
Since all seats on the train are reserved Green Car seats, you will need to purchase a Limited Express Ticket and a Green Car Ticket in addition to your basic fare ticket. If you wish to have a meal, after securing your seat on the train, you will need to use your seat number to apply for the meal using the designated method, such as tabiwa by WESTER. The deadline for applying for meals is set before the date of travel, and you will need to present your electronic ticket. Even when using the ALL SHIKOKU Rail Pass or JR Pass, there may be additional charges such as Green Car fares for sightseeing trains that are not covered by the pass. Please present your pass at the ticket counter and clearly indicate any additional tickets you need to purchase.
Is a Physical Ticket Required?
If you purchased your ticket at a ticket office or travel agency, you will need to receive a paper ticket before boarding. If you have a meal reservation voucher, please pick it up using the method specified.
Can IC Cards or Credit Card Touch Payments Be Used?
When riding the "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI," you will need separate tickets for the basic fare and the special car fare. While IC cards such as ICOCA can be used as the fare in some sections around Tadotsu and Kotohira, the mountainous section towards Oboke may be outside the IC card usage area. The special car fare cannot be paid using the balance on your IC card and must be purchased as a separate ticket in advance.
Contactless payment via credit card is not available for boarding this train on its route.
Seating Information for "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI"
Seat Types (All Reserved, Green Car Equivalent)
The "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" train consists entirely of reserved Green Car seats. There are no unreserved seats.
| Seat Type | Content |
|---|---|
| Reserved Seats | Wood-grain interior, seating arrangement overlooking the valley. |
| Counter Seats | A space where you can enjoy a meal. |
| Unreserved Seats | None (All seats are reserved) |
Distinctive Seating
The train's interior is decorated with motifs inspired by the torii gate of Kotohira Shrine and the vine bridge of Iya Valley, creating a space where passengers can feel the region's history and culture. The seating arrangement offers views of the Oboke Gorge, allowing passengers to fully enjoy the beauty of the valley. The seats have large tables, making them ideal for enjoying meals. Some seats are positioned to face the gorge, making it easier to enjoy the spectacular scenery of Oboke Gorge. The windows are large, ensuring unobstructed views of the valley along the Dosan Line. The seats, equivalent to those in Green Car class, have more spacious seat pitch compared to regular limited express and rapid trains.
Large Luggage Storage Area
There is space provided within the train for storing luggage.
Barrier-Free Facilities
If you are using a wheelchair, please contact JR Shikoku before boarding to confirm available seats and boarding/alighting procedures.
Seating and What to Bring for Enjoying the Gorge Section
In sections where you can see the Yoshino River and mountain villages, you can enjoy the scenery along with the onboard commentary. As this sightseeing train is an experiential train that includes meals and service, please avoid taking photos for extended periods in the aisles and take your valuables with you when leaving your seat. Mobile phone reception may be unstable in mountainous areas. It is a good idea to save maps, bus schedules, and accommodation contact information in advance, and keep your jacket and rain gear easily accessible for use upon arrival.
Enjoy Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and In-Train Gourmet Food on the "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" Train.
The "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" offers different special meal plans using local ingredients for the morning "Sora no Sato Kikou" (Journey to the Village of the Sky) and the afternoon "Shiawase no Sato Kikou" (Journey to the Village of Happiness). Iya soba noodles and dishes using traditional local vegetables are also popular. Around Oboke Station, there are plenty of direct sales outlets for local agricultural products and restaurants serving Iya soba noodles. The sightseeing boat tour of Oboke Gorge is a popular activity where you can enjoy the beauty of the gorge while viewing the impressive rock formations up close.
Pre-Ordered Meals and Carry-On Rules
Different pre-ordered meals are available for the outbound and inbound journeys, featuring ingredients from Kagawa and Tokushima prefectures. The meal reservation voucher does not include the basic fare ticket, Limited Express Ticket, or Green Car Ticket. There are restrictions on bringing food and drinks onto the train, so please check the latest information if you plan to bring anything other than water or tea. Travelers who have reserved a meal should prepare a smartphone capable of displaying their electronic ticket on the day of travel, confirm their seat number and reservation details, and then board the train.
Points to Note When Riding "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI"
The "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" is a sightseeing train with limited operating days, so if you wish to ride it, it is recommended to check the operating dates and make a reservation in advance. The meal plan is especially popular, so early booking is important. Also, the Kazurabashi Bridge is regularly rebuilt, so it is advisable to check the latest status on the official website. If you wish to enjoy rafting, you will need to make a reservation with a specialized tour company in advance.
If you are planning to visit Oboke Gorge, it's a good idea to check the sightseeing boat schedule as well to ensure a smooth trip. To visit the Kazurabashi Bridge in Iya Valley, you will need to transfer to a bus from Oboke Station.
Summary
The "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI" is a JR Shikoku sightseeing train connecting Tadotsu Station, Kotohira Station, and Oboke Station, themed around the thousand-year history and food culture of the Iya Valley and Oboke Gorge area. All seats are reserved and equivalent to Green Car seats, so a special car fare is required in addition to the regular ticket. Since the operating days are limited, it is important to check in advance. This special train allows you to experience the thousand-year history and food culture that thrives in the heart of Shikoku on a luxurious railway journey. It is a one-of-a-kind sightseeing train that combines the sense of secluded Iya Valley with meticulous hospitality. It offers a high-quality and relaxed travel experience that is truly worthy of the phrase "adults' leisure trip." Be sure to experience the special time woven from the secluded Iya Valley and the food culture of Shikoku.
Enjoy a special journey through the heart of Shikoku with "SHIKOKU MANNAKA SENNEN MONOGATARI," where you can savor the scenic beauty of the Oboke Gorge and the rich local food culture.
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