Shikoku Tosa Toki no Yoake no Monogatari - Kochi to Kubokawa
Shikoku Tosa Toki no Yoake no Monogatari (志国土佐 時代トキの夜明けのものがたり) is one of the most luxurious sightseeing trains I’ve ridden in Japan. I discovered it while browsing the JR Shikoku website and reserved my round-trip ticket in advance, since seats were limited.
The train’s theme highlights Tosa at the end of the Edo period, when great figures envisioned Japan’s future, supported by the region’s beauty and spirit. Its two cars reflect this: Kurofune (Black Ship) represents the late Edo era, while Sorafune (Sky Ship) symbolizes Ryoma’s dream of a new era. My seat was in Sorafune, where I settled in with a route booklet and visited the small café for local snacks.
Most passengers were tour groups from Taiwan. Despite gloomy weather, the scenery was beautiful. Highlights included the 15-minute stop at Awa Station, offering views of the Awa Coast and a lively welcome from locals selling souvenirs. I took plenty of photos and enjoyed a fish pastry with a drink before reaching Kubokawa Station.
On the return trip—again in Sorafune since Kurofune seats were full—the stop at Susaki Station stood out. Volunteers and staff put on a cheerful performance, which I joined by clapping along.
Overall, the train delivered on its promise of history, scenery, hospitality, and food. Next time, I’d love to try the special bento on board.
Background
The Shikoku Tosa Toki no Yoake no Monogatari is a luxury sightseeing train in Kochi Prefecture running between Kochi and Kubokawa. Introduced in 2020, its name means “Tale of the Dawn of an Era,” honoring Sakamoto Ryoma and Tosa’s history at the end of the Edo period. The two cars, Kurofune (Black Ship) and Sorafune (Sky Ship), feature elegant interiors, large windows with scenic views, and local cuisine. The train combines history, culture, and gourmet experiences, making it one of Shikoku’s most immersive rail journeys.
Getting There
To reach Kochi Station, you can travel by plane, train, or bus from major cities in Japan. From Kochi Ryoma Airport (COK), take the airport bus or a taxi to the station. If you’re already in the Kochi area, local streetcars (trams) and buses are available, though there is no subway system.
Route Overview
Train: Kochi Station (高知駅) → Kubokawa Station (窪川駅) Return
Duration: 2 hr 36 min (1 stop)
Route note: Reservation required. The train mainly runs on weekends, with limited weekday service. 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. I couldn’t find it at the automatic ticket machine in November 2023, but the staff helped me secure a reservation. Check the seating chart in advance to choose your preferred seat. The train’s unique bento boxes can also be reserved at the same time, up to three days before departure, and light snacks can be pre-ordered as well. For more information, visit the official JR Shikoku website — the English version has basic details, but the Japanese site provides more comprehensive information.
Cost Breakdown
Train: Kochi Station → Kubokawa Station — ¥4,540
Train: Kubokawa Station → Kochi Station — ¥4,540
Snack: ¥2,200
Souvenir: ¥1,200
