Ehime｜A Convenient Option Connecting Shikoku and Chugoku

Traveling between Shikoku and Chugoku used to mean taking the JR train, which could save a lot on transportation costs if you had a JR Pass. However, the downside was the need to transfer trains, which involved lugging your luggage between platforms. This time, upon a local friend's recommendation, I took an intercity bus from Matsuyama in Ehime to Okayama. Not only was the journey smooth and comfortable, but the cost was also several thousand yen cheaper than taking the JR train. Let’s talk about the bus experience. The departure point in Matsuyama is Matsuyama Station, but since I was staying near Okaido, I boarded the bus there, saving myself the hassle of backtracking. I must commend Japan's punctuality—the bus arrived exactly on schedule. Tickets were purchased in advance at the Iyo Bus Okaido Service Center, and the driver assisted with loading luggage and confirming seats. The entire trip took about three hours, which is roughly the same as taking the JR train. Midway, the bus stopped at Toyohama Rest Area in Kagawa before crossing the Seto Ohashi Bridge. The most unforgettable part was when the bus drove onto the bridge—the blue skies, white clouds, and the scattered islands of the Seto Inland Sea created a breathtaking vacation-like atmosphere. Finally, the bus arrived at Okayama Bus Terminal, where you can seamlessly transfer to JR trains or check into nearby hotels. 📍Address: 〒790-0001 Ehime Prefecture, Matsuyama City, Ichibancho 2-6-12 🚗 Okaido Express Bus Stop: A one-minute walk from Okaido Tram Station. The bus stop is integrated with a convenience store, making it easy to grab drinks and snacks.