"SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN" Timetable, Fares, and Ticket Purchasing Information

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR Shikoku sightseeing train "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN," which connects Kubokawa Station and Uwajima Station. It includes timetables, fares for representative sections, stations, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. As it serves as an access train to the Shimanto River and the Yodo Line, 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 "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN" is a JR Shikoku sightseeing train that connects Kubokawa Station and Uwajima Station via the Yodo Line. It runs along a scenic route beside the Shimanto River, known as Japan's last pristine river. The train includes open-air trolley cars with no windows, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenery while feeling the river breeze. All seats are reserved, so advance seat reservations are required. The train mainly operates on weekends and holidays, so it is necessary to check the operating days if you plan to ride. Passengers can enjoy the unique scenery of the Shimanto River, including submersible bridges. There are other trains with similar names and destinations, so it is recommended to check the train name and destination on the departure information display before boarding.

What is "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN"?

The "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN" is a JR Shikoku sightseeing train operated to allow passengers to enjoy the scenery of the Shimanto River. The Yodo Line is a railway line connecting Kubokawa Station and Kita-Uwajima Station, running along the Shimanto River. The name "Shimanto" comes from the Shimanto River. For safety reasons, the trolley cars are only available on certain sections of the line; passengers ride in standard cars for the rest of the journey. Other sightseeing trains, such as the "Kaiyodo Hobby Train," also operate on the Yodo Line.

Train Features and Popular Points

The charm of the "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN" lies in the fact that you can enjoy the scenery of the Shimanto River from the open-air trolley cars. The Shimanto River is known as "Japan's last pristine river" and is famous for its clear waters. The submersible bridges, which are bridges without railings designed to be submerged during floods, are an iconic sight of the Shimanto River. The train may slow down in sections with good views. The trolley cars, where you can feel the river breeze as you travel, are especially popular for summer trips. Along the route, there are many spots for canoeing and other river activities on the Shimanto River. Uwajima is a city known for Uwajima Castle and bullfighting. Shimanto River shrimp and sweetfish are representative local delicacies. Checking the stops and travel time before boarding will make it easier to plan an itinerary that includes stops along the way. The impression of the scenery from the train window changes greatly depending on the season, so it is recommended to choose the time of year according to your purpose. The Yodo Line is also known as the "Shimanto Green Line" because it runs along the Shimanto River.

Timetable for "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN"

As of July 13, 2026, the "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN" is suspended due to mudslides on the Yodo Line, and the resumption date is undecided. Please check JR Shikoku's service information before using the service.

Downbound (towards Uwajima Station) Timetable

Upbound (towards Kubokawa Station) Timetable

The "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN" operates seasonally, mainly on weekends and holidays. 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 day. 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

As of July 2026, train service is suspended due to mudslides onto the tracks. The resumption date is undecided. The situation may change from the time of publication, so please check the latest service information on the JR Shikoku official website before making reservations or planning your itinerary.

Operating Sections of "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN"

Main Sections

• Kubokawa Station to Egawasaki Station (Yodo Line)
• Egawasaki Station to Chikanaga Station (Yodo Line)
• Chikanaga Station to Uwajima Station (Yodo Line)

Egawasaki Station is located in the middle reaches of the Shimanto River. Activities such as canoeing and pleasure boat rides are popular on the Shimanto River. Numerous submersible bridges span the Shimanto River, their simple appearance making a strong impression. Uwajima Castle is known for having an existing keep. Uwajima's bullfighting is a traditional event that continues to this day. Kubokawa Station is a connecting station for the Dosan Line and the Yodo Line. There are many sightseeing boat docks along the Shimanto River basin. Since travel to surrounding tourist attractions is mainly by bus or on foot, it's a good idea to check local transportation options beforehand. Tourist information centers are sometimes located around stations where you can obtain maps and brochures. For lines with limited service, it's wise to check return train and bus schedules as well. The Yodo Line also operates the "Railway Hobby Train," which is modeled after the Shinkansen bullet train. It is said that there are 47 submersible bridges spanning the Shimanto River.

Stations on "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN"

Main Stops

• Kubokawa Station
• Tosa-Taisho Station
• Egawasaki Station
• Chikanaga Station
• Uwajima Station

*Stops may vary depending on the train.

Fares for "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN"

Representative Section Fares

Breakdown of Base Fare and Reserved Seat Ticket

To ride the "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN," you will need a base fare ticket to your destination and a reserved seat ticket. Reserved seat tickets are sold only if your journey includes a section of the train that includes the trolley car ride. As it is not an express train, express train fares and tickets are not required.

Sections for Trolley Car Use

For safety reasons, the open-air trolley car is only available on certain sections of the route. For other sections, passengers will travel in standard carriages. When making a reservation, seats for both the trolley car and the standard carriage will be assigned. Use of the trolley car may be restricted in case of rain or other inclement weather.

How to Buy Tickets for "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN"

JR Shikoku Online Reservations

JR Shikoku's online reservation service 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 tickets at the station's reserved seat ticket machines or at the ticket office. Since all seats are reserved, you cannot board the train without securing a seat. Ticket 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 high season, so it's best to go with plenty of time to spare.

Travel Agencies

Major travel agencies offer travel packages that combine sightseeing in the Shimanto area with train travel.

How to Buy for International Visitors

The "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN" is a JR Shikoku train, so it can be used with the JAPAN RAIL PASS or other passes for the Shikoku area. Even when using a pass, all seats are reserved, so you will need to obtain a separate seat reservation ticket. Some station ticket offices offer information in foreign languages. Special tickets for international visitors may have limited purchase conditions and sales locations, so it is advisable to check before traveling.

Is Ticket Issuance Required?

If you reserved a paper ticket through e5489, you will need to pick it up at the designated station before boarding. If you use the ticketless system for sightseeing trains, you do not need to pick up a ticket, but a separate base fare ticket is required. Currently, the service is suspended, so please check the official information to see if sales will resume.

Can IC Cards or Credit Card Contactless Payments Be Used?

IC cards cannot be used on the Yodo Line. You will need to prepare cash or purchase tickets from a ticket vending machine. While some transportation IC cards can be used across regions through the nationwide interoperability service, the usable area is determined by each railway company, so be sure to check in advance whether your journey is within their service area.

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

*IC cards cannot be used. Please purchase your base fare ticket and reserved seat ticket in advance.

Seating Information for "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN"

Seat Types

The "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN" is an all-reserved-seat train. It consists of trolley cars and standard cars. Since the number of seats is limited, it is best to book early once your travel dates are decided. When booking, you may be able to choose between window seats 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 open-air trolley cars have no windows, allowing you to feel the breeze from the Shimanto River. The seats are wooden bench seats, giving the ride a retro feel. Seats on the Shimanto River side offer stunning views of the clear stream. Depending on the weather, it can get chilly, so it's a good idea to bring a jacket. Window seats are best for those who want to enjoy the scenery, while aisle seats are ideal for those who prioritize ease of boarding and alighting. For longer journeys, it's recommended to check your seat location and make a reservation in advance for a more comfortable experience.

Luggage Storage

Space for large luggage is limited. Larger items will need to be placed in the space at your feet.

Accessibility Facilities

There are steps inside the trolley cars. If you are using a wheelchair, it is recommended to contact JR Shikoku in advance. The availability of multi-purpose rooms and wheelchair-accessible facilities may vary depending on the car and train set.

 

 

Station Bento Boxes and Onboard Dining on "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN"

On the "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN," snacks and drinks may be sold on board. In the Shimanto River area, river shrimp, sweetfish, and green laver are well-known local specialties. In Kochi, seared bonito is a classic dish. In Uwajima, sea bream rice is a popular local dish. Onboard sales vary depending on the train and season, so it's best to prepare drinks and snacks before boarding. If you eat or drink on board, please be considerate of others by avoiding foods with strong odors. Dispose of empty containers and trash in the trash cans on board or at the station after disembarking.

Points to Note When Riding "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN"

The "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN" operates only on limited days, so be sure to check the operating dates before planning your trip. All seats are reserved, so you cannot board without a reserved seat. The trolley cars are only used on certain sections of the line. The Yodo Line is susceptible to heavy rain, so check the operating status beforehand. IC cards cannot be used, so purchase your ticket in advance. Before boarding, check the train name, car number, and seat number printed on your ticket. If you are bringing large luggage, please use the luggage racks or overhead compartments to avoid blocking the aisle. Onboard, it is good manners to keep phone calls to a minimum so as not to disturb other passengers.

Since the trolley cars are open-air, please dress appropriately for the season. Before boarding, please check the operating status on Ekitan or the railway company's official website.

Summary

The "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN" is a JR Shikoku sightseeing train that connects Kubokawa Station and Uwajima Station via the Yodo Line. From the open-air trolley car, you can enjoy the scenery of the Shimanto River, Japan's last remaining pristine river, along with the river breeze. Since it operates on limited days and all seats are reserved, be sure to check the operating dates and reserve your seat in advance.

Enjoy a journey through Shimanto on the "SHIMANTO TROLLEY TRAIN," which follows Japan's last remaining pristine river.

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.