Limited Express “SHIOKAZE” Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR Shikoku Limited Express “SHIOKAZE”, which connects Okayama Station and Matsuyama Station. It includes timetables, fares for representative sections, stations served, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. As it serves as an access train to Dogo Onsen and the Setouchi region, 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 “SHIOKAZE” is a JR Shikoku Limited Express train connecting Okayama Station and Matsuyama Station. It crosses the Seto Ohashi Bridge to connect Honshu and Shikoku, and heads towards Matsuyama via the Yosan Line. The train uses 8600 series and 8000 series electric trains, both of which have excellent performance on curves. It is used as a major means of access to Dogo Onsen, which is said to be the oldest hot spring in Japan. Since there are unreserved seats, you can easily board without a reservation. From the train windows, you can enjoy the view of the Seto Inland Sea from the Seto Ohashi Bridge and the scenery of the coastline along the Hiuchi Sea. There are other trains with similar names and destinations, so it is a good idea to check the train name and destination on the departure information display before boarding.

What is “SHIOKAZE”?

“SHIOKAZE” is a JR Shikoku Limited Express train named after the sea breeze of the Seto Inland Sea. The Yosan Line is a major line on the northern coast of Shikoku, running from Takamatsu Station through Matsuyama to Uwajima. The 8000 series is an electric train equipped with a tilting mechanism, allowing it to travel at high speeds on the winding Yosan Line. The 8600 series is a train that debuted in 2014 and is equipped with an air-spring type car body tilting system. Between Okayama and Utazu, some trains operate coupled with the “Nanpu” bound for Kochi.

Train Features and Popular Points

The appeal of the “SHIOKAZE” lies in its convenience, offering direct access from Honshu to Matsuyama without transfers. The section crossing the Seto Ohashi Bridge offers breathtaking views of the islands floating in the Seto Inland Sea. Dogo Onsen is considered one of Japan's oldest hot springs, and the Dogo Onsen Main Building is its iconic structure. This imposing three-story wooden building is designated a National Important Cultural Property. Matsuyama Castle boasts an existing keep, and you can reach the summit by ropeway. Imabari is known as a towel-producing region and is the gateway to the Shimanami Kaido on the Shikoku side. The Shimanami Kaido is world-renowned as a cycling mecca. The 8600 series train features a distinctive retro-modern design. Checking the stations served and travel times before boarding makes it easier to plan an itinerary that includes stops along the way. Since the scenery outside the window changes significantly depending on the season and time of day, it's recommended to choose different times for your outbound and return journeys.

“SHIOKAZE” Timetable

*The “SHIOKAZE” operates more than ten round trips per day.

Downbound (towards Matsuyama Station) Timetable

Upbound (towards Okayama Station) Timetable

The “SHIOKAZE” 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 Ekitan 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.

Important Information Regarding Operating Days and Service Suspensions

The “SHIOKAZE” operates daily throughout the year. Between Okayama and Utazu, some services operate in conjunction with the “Nanpu”. The Seto Ohashi Bridge may have operational restrictions during strong winds.

“SHIOKAZE” Operating Sections

Main Sections

• Okayama Station to Kojima Station (Uno Line/Seto-Ohashi Line)
• Kojima Station to Utazu Station (Seto-Ohashi Line)
• Utazu Station to Matsuyama Station (Yosan Line)

Matsuyama Station is the gateway to Matsuyama tourism. Dogo Onsen can be accessed from within Matsuyama city by tram. The Dogo Onsen Main Building is a stately building said to have been the inspiration for a movie. Matsuyama Castle is a castle with an existing keep and offers panoramic views of the city. At the Saka no Ue no Kumo Museum, you can experience the world of Ryotaro Shiba's works. 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 getting to nearby tourist attractions mainly involves buses and walking, it's a good idea to check local transportation options beforehand. There are often tourist information centers around the station where you can get maps and brochures.

“SHIOKAZE” Stations Served

Main Stations Served

• Okayama Station
• Kojima Station
• Utazu Station
• Tadotsu Station
• Kannonji Station
• Niihama Station
• Imabari Station
• Matsuyama Station

The stations served by a train may vary. Please check the stations served by your train on Ekitan or the railway company's official website.

“SHIOKAZE” Fares

Representative Section Fares

• Limited Express Fares, Tickets and Timetable - Ekitan

Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Limited Express Fare

The fare for the “SHIOKAZE” is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the Limited Express Fare. The Limited Express Fare differs between reserved and unreserved seats, with reserved seats being slightly more expensive. If you use a Green Car, you will need to pay the Green Car fare in addition to the Limited Express Fare. When purchasing tickets, make sure you have both the basic fare ticket and the Limited Express Ticket. JR's Limited Express Fares are set according to the distance traveled, and the amount may vary depending on whether it is a normal season, peak season, or off-peak season. The fare is divided into the "basic fare ticket" for the journey to your destination and the "Limited Express Fare" 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 “Nanpu”

Some “SHIOKAZE” trains operate coupled with the “Nanpu” train bound for Kochi between Okayama and Utazu. At Utazu Station, the trains are separated, and each train proceeds to its respective destination. Be careful not to board the wrong car, as you may end up going in a different direction than your intended destination. Always check the car number and destination before boarding.

How to Buy “SHIOKAZE” Tickets

JR Shikoku Internet 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 Midori-no-madoguchi

You can purchase Reserved Seat Limited Express Tickets at the station's reserved seat ticket 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 an Unreserved Seat Limited Express Ticket. 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 “SHIOKAZE” runs on JR Shikoku and JR West lines, 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.

Do I Need a Physical Ticket?

Even if you purchase your tickets online, you may still need to pick up a paper ticket at a designated ticket vending machine at the station. If you need to pick up a paper ticket, it's best to do so with plenty of time to spare, rather than right before boarding. Tickets cannot be reissued if lost, so please keep them safe during your journey.

Can I Use Contactless Payment with an IC Card or Credit Card?

In the ICOCA area around Okayama, you can use a transportation IC card for the train fare portion. However, some sections of the Yosan Line may be outside the IC card 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 area.
Contactless payment via credit card is not available for boarding at ticket gates.
*Please note that you cannot ride the Limited Express train using only your IC card. A Limited Express Fare must be purchased separately.

“SHIOKAZE” Seating Information

Seat Types

The “SHIOKAZE” is operated using 8600 and 8000 series trains and consists of Ordinary Reserved Seats, Unreserved Seats, and Green Car seats. 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 spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea in some sections of the journey. Window seats are suitable for those who want to enjoy the scenery, while aisle seats are suitable for those who prioritize ease of boarding and alighting. For long journeys, it is recommended to check the seat location and make a reservation in advance for a more comfortable experience.

Large Luggage Storage Area

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

Barrier-Free Facilities

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 Gourmet Food on “SHIOKAZE”

There is no in-car sales service on the “SHIOKAZE”. If you would like to enjoy a meal, it is recommended to prepare in advance at the Ekiben shops or stalls at Okayama Station. In Matsuyama, sea bream rice, five-colored somen noodles, and jakoten (fried fish cakes) are known as local specialties. Around Dogo Onsen, Botchan Dango is a classic souvenir. In Imabari, yakibuta tamago meshi (roast pork and egg rice) is a popular local specialty. Since the shops inside the station may have limited operating hours, it is best to prepare in advance if you are traveling early in the morning or late at night. 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. 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 “SHIOKAZE”

Some “SHIOKAZE” trains operate coupled with “Nanpu” trains. 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 hours. The Seto Ohashi Bridge may have operational restrictions during strong winds. To get to Dogo Onsen, take the tram from Matsuyama Station. 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. It is good manners to keep phone calls to a minimum on board so as not to disturb other passengers.
Since there is no onboard service, if you plan to eat, be sure to prepare before boarding. Checking the train schedule on a site like Ekitan before boarding will help you calmly deal with delays or cancellations.

Summary

The “SHIOKAZE” is a JR Shikoku Limited Express train connecting Okayama Station and Matsuyama Station. It crosses the Seto Ohashi Bridge, offering scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea as you travel to Matsuyama, home to Dogo Onsen hot springs. Since some services are coupled with the “Nanpu” Limited Express, be sure to check which car you will be boarding.
Enjoy your trip to Dogo Onsen aboard “SHIOKAZE”, where you can feel the sea breeze of the Seto Inland Sea.

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.
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.