Muroto (train)

The Muroto (むろと) is a limited express train service in Japan operated by JR Shikoku which runs from Tokushima to Mugi and Kaifu.

Muroto

Kiha 185 series train on a Muroto service in May 2010
Overview
Service type	Limited express
Status	Operational
First service	1962 (Semi express) 1966 (Express) 1999 (Limited express)
Current operator(s)	JR Shikoku
Route
Start	Tokushima
Stops	15
End	Mugi, Kaifu
Distance travelled	67.7 km (42.1 mi) (Tokushima - Mugi) 79.3 km (49.3 mi) (Tokushima - Kaifu)
Average journey time	1 hour 15 minutes approx
Service frequency	1 return working daily
Line(s) used	Mugi Line
On-board services
Class(es)	Standard only
Disabled access	Yes
Sleeping arrangements	None
Catering facilities	None
Observation facilities	None
Entertainment facilities	None
Other facilities	Toilet
Technical
Rolling stock	KiHa 185 series DMUs
Electrification	Diesel
Operating speed	110 km/h (68 mph) (max)
Track owner(s)	JR Shikoku

The Muroto service was introduced on 13 March 1999.

Route

The stations served by this service are as follows:

Tokushima - Awa-Tomida - Minami-Komatsushima - Hanoura - Anan - Awa-Tachibana - Kuwano - Aratano - Yuki - Hiwasa - Mugi - (Sabase) - (Asakawa) - (Awa-Kainan) - (Kaifu)

Between Mugi and Kaifu, the train runs as a local service.

Rolling stock

• KiHa 185 series 2- car DMUs (from 1999)

History

Muroto services began as a semi express from Takamatsu to Mugi in Shikoku from 18 July 1962. From 5 March 1966, however, the name was used for express trains operating. From 13 March 1999, the name was used for limited express trains operating between Tokushima and Kaifu.

References

• JR Timetable, August 2008 issue
• "ＪＲ新幹線＆特急列車ファイル" (JR Shinkansen & Limited Express Train File), published 2008 by Kōtsū Shimbun

External links

• JR Shikoku Train Information (in Japanese)