Iyonada Monogatari - Matsuyama to Iyo-Ozu
Iyonada Monogatari is JR Shikoku’s first sightseeing train, beginning service on July 26, 2014. Its name translates to “Story of the Iyo Sea,” with Iyo being the old name for Ehime Prefecture. Among the sightseeing trains operated by JR Shikoku, this one is particularly popular, connecting Matsuyama, Iyo-Ozu, and Yawatahama while offering uninterrupted views of the Seto Inland Sea as it hugs the coastline.
There are four different service options on Iyonada Monogatari, each paired with a different dining experience: one morning service from Matsuyama to Iyo-Ozu, two lunch services (Iyo-Ozu to Matsuyama and Matsuyama to Yawatahama), and one dessert service from Yawatahama to Matsuyama. I chose the morning option, as I planned to explore Iyo-Ozu afterward. The train consists of three uniquely designed cars: Car 1 is geared toward couples with paired seating, Car 3 is arranged for larger groups, and Car 2—where I was seated—comfortably accommodates solo travellers and couples.
Each car has its own design details, and one of the first things I noticed was the lighting shaped like mandarins. Citrus, especially mikan, is strongly associated with Ehime Prefecture, and that theme runs throughout the train. Plush mascots shaped like mandarins are placed around the cars, adding a playful touch. At my seat, I found an information brochure about the train along with an actual mikan. My seat faced directly toward the window, which meant I didn’t have to twist or lean to enjoy the scenery as we rolled along the coast.
Although the weather wasn’t ideal that day, the experience was still special. Many of the towns, villages, and even small stations along the route had locals gathered to welcome the train. People waved enthusiastically, some dressed up, others holding handmade signs. It was heartwarming to see how this train connects communities along the coast and how much pride the locals take in it.
While breakfast made with locally sourced ingredients is available on board, I opted for a simpler dessert and coffee instead. After finishing that, I turned my attention to the mikan. I noticed my seat neighbours expertly peeling theirs so the skin came off in one perfect piece. I tried to imitate them—with little success. I eventually managed to eat it, albeit inelegantly. Later, I learned from my Japanese teacher that peeling a mikan neatly in one piece is often taught from a young age and considered good manners. I unknowingly committed a small cultural faux pas, but at least the mikan was delicious.
One of the highlights of the journey was the stop at Shimonada Station. The train stops here for about 11 minutes, allowing passengers to step off and take photos. This tiny station is famous for its single platform sitting right next to the sea and is widely considered one of the most photogenic stations in Ehime Prefecture. It’s especially well known as a sunset spot, where sea, train, and platform come together in a simple but striking scene. I explored the station, took photos from every angle, and even collected a station stamp. The train staff kindly offered to take photos of passengers with the train, and I happily accepted.
Just outside the station is a uniquely slanted bench known as the “love bench.” Its design causes people sitting on it to slowly slide toward the centre, bringing them closer together—a small but charming detail. Soon after, we reboarded the train and continued toward Iyo-Ozu. As the journey wound down, I simply sat back and enjoyed the countryside scenery passing by. While clearer skies would have made the views even better, the experience itself was still memorable and lived up to its reputation.
Background
Iyonada Monogatari (伊予灘ものがたり) was introduced as part of JR Shikoku’s efforts to revitalize regional travel and promote slower, more scenic journeys through rural areas. Running along the Iyo Sea coast, the train highlights Ehime Prefecture’s maritime culture, local cuisine, and strong community ties. Its design emphasizes regional identity, from the mikan-themed décor to menus created with locally sourced ingredients. Over the years, it has become one of Shikoku’s most sought-after sightseeing trains, often selling out well in advance.
Getting There
Iyonada Monogatari departs from Matsuyama Station, which is easily accessible via JR lines and limited express services within Shikoku. Reservations are required, and tickets can be purchased at staffed JR Shikoku counters. Since the train mainly operates on weekends, it’s important to confirm schedules in advance when planning your trip.
Route Overview
Train: Matsuyama Station (松山駅) → Iyo-Ozu Station (伊予大洲駅)
Duration: 2 hr 2 min (1 stop)
Route note: Reservation required. The train mainly runs on weekends, always check the schedule before planning your trip.
Booking Info: Reserve at any JR station ticket counter as early as possible, as seats often sell out. The train’s unique bento boxes can only be reserved at any JR Shikoku station staffed counter, from one month up to four days before departure, and light snacks can be ordered on board without prior reservation. For more information, visit the official website.
Cost Breakdown
Train: Matsuyama Station → Iyo-Ozu Station — ¥3,980
Food: ¥1,000
Souvenir: ¥180
