JR Shikoku - All Shikoku Rail Pass

Must Do Experiences

• Ride the breathtaking Iyonada Monogatari or Tetsudo Hobby Train for a luxurious and scenic journey along the Seto Inland Sea coast.

• Take the included Shodoshima Ferry from Takamatsu to explore the island's famous olive groves, soy sauce breweries, and the stunning Kankakei Gorge.

• Hop on the Kotoden tram in Takamatsu or the Iyotetsu tram in Matsuyama to effortlessly reach historic castles, traditional gardens, and vibrant local shopping arcades.

• Journey deep into the Kochi countryside on the Tosa Kuroshio Railway to discover pristine beaches and the famous Shimanto River, known as Japan's last clear stream.

Hidden Gems

• Use your pass on the Asa Kaigan Railway to reach Muroto, a quiet coastal town famous for its historic whaling heritage and stunning ocean views that most tourists bypass.

• The pass includes the Shodoshima Olive Bus, which drops you right at hidden coastal cafes and secluded art installations that are difficult to reach by standard tour buses.

• Take advantage of the Tosaden tram network in Kochi to easily access the tranquil Makino Botanical Garden, a spectacular spot for seasonal blooms that remains largely undiscovered by international crowds.

What Makes it Special

• Unmatched regional coverage that uniquely combines JR limited express trains with private local railways, trams, and ferries under a single, convenient pass.

• Specifically designed for non-Japanese passport holders, offering an incredibly cost-effective way to navigate the complex transit network without buying individual tickets.

• Provides flexible duration options of three, four, five, or seven consecutive days, allowing you to perfectly tailor your island-hopping or deep-dive rural itinerary.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather and stunning seasonal colours, making train rides through the mountains exceptionally scenic. Summer brings vibrant festivals but can be hot and humid, while winter is mild but requires checking for occasional schedule adjustments on rural coastal lines. Early morning departures are best for securing window seats on popular scenic trains and avoiding the midday commuter rush.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the stunning coastal views from the right side of the train when travelling along the Yosan Line between Takamatsu and Matsuyama for the best shots of the Seto Inland Sea.

• Early morning light at Takamatsu Port provides beautiful, misty reflections when photographing the Shodoshima Ferry before departure.

• Always ask for permission before photographing pilgrims or local tram conductors, and avoid using flash inside the train carriages to respect fellow passengers.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When riding local trams and trains, it is customary to keep your voice down and set your mobile phone to silent mode to respect the peaceful atmosphere. If you encounter pilgrims on the 88 Temple route, a polite nod or a quiet word of encouragement is a warm way to acknowledge their spiritual journey. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, so simply offer a polite bow and a thank you to station staff or conductors who assist you with your luggage or route planning.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The Awa Odori Festival in Tokushima in August transforms the city into a massive traditional dance party, easily accessible via your rail pass.

• Spring cherry blossom season from late March to early April turns the grounds of Matsuyama Castle and the Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu into breathtaking pink wonderlands.

• The Shodoshima Olive Harvest Festival in autumn offers unique seasonal bus routes and local tasting events that perfectly complement your included ferry and bus access.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Mind the gap and watch your step when boarding older, heritage-style trams in Matsuyama and Kochi, as the entry steps can be steep and narrow.

• Keep your belongings secure and close to you, especially when sleeping on longer limited express journeys across the island.

• Stay behind the yellow tactile paving lines on rural station platforms, as some local trains pass through at high speeds without stopping.