Rapid Marine Liner

Enjoy the beauty of the Seto Inland Sea from the double-decker carriages of this train

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The Story Behind The Train

Crossing that Great Seto Bridge (Seto Ohashi) that connects Honshu and Shikoku

The Rapid Marine Liner is a rapid service train that connects Okayama Station in the Chugoku region on Japan’s main island of Honshu with Takamatsu Station in the Shikoku region in about an hour.

Shikoku is the smallest of the four main islands in the Japanese archipelago, and there is an inland sea – called the Seto Inland Sea – between Shikoku and Honshu. As suggested by its name, the Rapid Marine Liner serves as a link between Honshu and Shikoku by traversing the Great Seto Bridge that spans the Seto Inland Sea.

The train departs from Okayama Station and runs on the Uno Line to Chayamachi Station, on the Honshi-Bisan Line between Chayamachi Station and Utazu Station, and then on the Yosan Line between Utazu Station and Takamatsu Station. These sections are also affectionately known as the Great Seto Bridge Line.

Enjoy the serene sea and island scenery from the train's windows

The Great Seto Bridge is a collective name for six bridges that span the approx. 9.4 km (approx. 5.8 miles) across the strait, and that include several types of bridges, including suspension bridges, cable-stayed bridges, and truss bridges. The bridges have a two-tier structure, with the upper section carrying the road (Seto-Chuo Expressway) and the lower section carrying the railway (JR Honshi-Bisan Line), which makes it one of the largest combined road and rail bridges in the world.

The coastal regions of the Seto Inland Sea are often likened to the Mediterranean Sea because of their warm, mild climate and little rain. The area is also home to a unique maritime culture and a rich ecosystem, providing it with numerous one-of-a-kind attractions. From the train windows, you can enjoy scenic views of islands both large and small floating in the lush blue sea.

Experience open, panoramic seats in the Green Car carriages

With the exception of some trains, Rapid Marine Liner trains are characterized by the fact that they are connected with two-story carriages. Located on the upper floor, the Green Car seats provide a better view for riders to enjoy. Additionally, the very front carriage has four single-story panoramic seats, located just behind the driver’s seat, that are perfect for enjoying the incredible views. While riding, take in the scenery of the Seto Inland Sea from the Rapid Marine Liner’s large and spacious windows.

The lower floor of the two-story carriages has reserved regular seats that can be reclined so riders can relax during the journey, while the other carriages have unreserved seats which can be used just by having a boarding ticket.