A charming journey through four countries, a dialogue between nostalgia and modernity—The Iyo-nada Monogatari Railway!

Text provided by Qidou Travel Network; Photos provided by Xiangsheng Travel

Taking the Alishan Forest Railway is nothing special—riding Japan’s Shikoku Iyo-nada Monogatari Railway is what’s truly cool!

Just celebrating its second anniversary on July 26 this year, the Iyo-nada Monogatari is a brand-new pilgrimage route for railway enthusiasts. It runs along the most beautiful coastline of Ehime in Shikoku, allowing you to sit in comfortable carriages and enjoy the breathtaking, endless seascape. Below, the vehicles on National Route 378, leisurely cyclists, and the occasional speeding motorcycles seem to be racing across the sea. This unparalleled railway experience is truly a once-in-a-lifetime journey.

The uniquely designed Iyo-nada Monogatari train features a gradient dark red color scheme inspired by the sunset over Iyo-nada, paired with a vibrant golden base tone. It exudes a distinctive blend of nostalgia and modern flair that instantly catches the eye. The luxurious interior showcases the elegance and thoughtfulness of traditional Japanese design. The seats on the mountain side are slightly elevated, ensuring an unobstructed view unlike those on the seaside. Each trip also offers meals that incorporate local specialties, served on famous Imari-yaki tableware—truly a premium experience. No wonder it’s Japan’s hottest golden train.

The train station along the railway line, Shiota Station, was once the closest station to the sea in Japan. It also made an appearance in the manga “Spirited Away.” During your brief stop, stand on the platform, breathe in the air of the Seto Inland Sea, and admire the stunning blue horizon where the Iyo-nada Sea meets the sky. The quaint station building and the romantic couple seats filled with love are popular photo spots. The scene is so dreamlike that it’s no wonder this station is considered the most romantic in Shikoku.

Sit in the comfortable carriage, gaze at the coastline unique to Ehime, enjoy the sea-meets-sky view of the endless Iyo-nada, greet the warm hospitality of the locals along the way, savor delicious coffee and desserts, and immerse yourself in the romantic atmosphere—create your own memorable railway journey!

Located in the southwestern part of Ehime Prefecture, Uwajima Bay is surrounded by mountains on three sides and boasts crystal-clear waters. Influenced by the warm Kuroshio Current, the average annual temperature is 16–17 degrees Celsius. The area thrives on fisheries, pearl farming, and red snapper cultivation, all in abundant supply. Want your own personalized pearl accessories? Come to Uwajima to make your dream come true. At the Uwajima Pearl Hall, try your hand at a fun DIY mobile phone charm, using locally produced pearls and your own creativity to craft a one-of-a-kind accessory—leave with the most unique souvenir from your Shikoku trip.

Located in Niihama City, Ehime Prefecture, the Besshi Copper Mines were discovered in 1690 and mining began the following year until 1973. Producing about 700,000 tons of copper ore annually, they were once a major pillar of Japan’s trade and the foundation of the Sumitomo Group's later success. Explore the Besshi Copper Mine Sightseeing Park and take a small train through the mining area. The lifelike remnants of the mines bring the past mining scenes to life. Imagine the hardships of the miners and the isolated environment they worked in—the nickname “the Machu Picchu of the East” is truly well-deserved.

When visiting Shikoku, don’t miss its most beautiful and distinctive garden—Ritsurin Garden. Especially in autumn, when the maple trees put on a spectacular show. Once painstakingly developed by the Sanuki Domain lord and refined over a century, it’s a perfect blend of nature and culture. The garden features six lakes, 13 artificial hills, and more than 10 pavilions. It was once the most famous strolling-style daimyo garden of the Edo period. With the lush Mount Uchizan in the background, the garden showcases classic Japanese cultural elements with its carefully arranged bridges, flowing water, pavilions, and pine forests.

The beauty of Shikoku is everywhere—you don’t have to stay in gardens to enjoy the majestic landscape. The Yoshino River in Shikoku cuts through the mountains, forming unique natural secret gorges known as Okuboei Gorge and Koboei Gorge. “Boei” refers to cliffs so steep and dangerous that they are perilous even when taking big or small steps.

The valley scenery between Kochi and Okuboei is quite magnificent. To see the true face of the gorge, you can take a sightseeing boat that weaves through the cliffs. The views along the way are breathtaking, and when the autumn leaves add their splash of color, the gorge becomes even more vibrant.

More related information
Recommended itinerary: November 4 departure – Premium Shikoku Iyo-nada Maple Viewing 6-Day Tour
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