What Happened

On May 7, 2026, JR Shikoku (四国旅客鉄道) officially launched its "列車走行位置情報サービス" (Train Running Position Information Service). This new feature is integrated into the official JR Shikoku website and provides users with a visual representation of train movements in real-time. The service is designed to offer passengers greater insight into the operational status of the railway beyond standard delay notifications.

The launch represents a significant upgrade to JR Shikoku's digital passenger information infrastructure. While the operator has long provided timetables and delay alerts, this service adds a dynamic, map-based layer of information. The source announcement did not specify the exact technology or data sources used to power the real-time tracking.

Affected Services

According to the official notice, the Train Running Position Information Service applies to JR Shikoku's rail network. The source did not list specific lines or train types that are excluded. Based on the operator's mainline services, the service is expected to cover major routes such as:

• The Yosan Line (予讃線) running along the northern coast.
• The Dosan Line (土讃線) connecting to the interior of the island.
• The Tokushima Line (徳島線) in the eastern region.
• The Kotoku Line (高徳線).

Services like the limited express Shiokaze, Ishizuchi, and Nanpu are core parts of JR Shikoku's operations and are presumed to be included in this tracking system. The service is accessible via the JR Shikoku website and is intended for use during operating hours.

What Travelers Should Do

Passengers utilizing JR Shikoku services now have an additional tool for trip planning and managing expectations. The source-supported advice is to use this service for informational purposes. Here is how travelers can integrate it into their journey:

1. Access the Service: Visit the official JR Shikoku website's section for train operation information. A direct link to the service's usage page is provided on the site.
2. Understand the Display: The service shows the approximate location of trains on a map. This can be useful for gauging the progress of your train or understanding the flow of traffic on a line if you are making connections, especially at hubs like Takamatsu Station or Matsuyama Station.
3. Use "My Station" Features: The service includes a "My Station" (My駅) function. Users can register up to two stations for quick access to information relevant to their starting point or destination. This can streamline the process of checking for updates.
4. Continue to Check Official Announcements: The train position service is a supplement to, not a replacement for, official delay and suspension notices. Passengers should continue to consult the primary JR Shikoku operation information page for critical alerts regarding cancellations or major disruptions.

The source did not provide advice on using this service for recovery planning after a disruption, as it is a tracking tool, not a predictive or recovery management system for passengers.

Official Source

The information in this article is based entirely on the official announcement and service description published by JR Shikoku on the date and time noted above.