Ride the World's First DMV, Watch the Spectacular 15-Second Mode Change
About this spot
A cultural facility housing museums and crafts centers showcasing the history and culture of Kaiyo, and also the starting point of the Asa Coast Railway's world-first commercial DMV (Dual Mode Vehicle) service. The DMV is a vehicle based on a microbus that operates as a bus on roads and as a rail vehicle on tracks—a "transforming vehicle." Departing from the cultural village, the vehicle lowers its guide wheels at the adjacent Awa Kainan Station mode interchange and transforms into a train in just 15 seconds. It then travels along the tracks with the Pacific Ocean visible through the windows before reverting to bus mode at Kaburaki Station and heading to Michi no Eki Shishikui Onsen. Each of the three vehicles has a different color and nickname, adding to the excitement of which one you'll encounter.
Tips
The DMV operates on reserved seating only with limited capacity, so early online booking is recommended. If traveling by group vehicle, have one person drive the car ahead to the Michi no Eki Shishikui Onsen rest area to streamline afternoon travel. Have your camera ready as the mode change happens in sync with the on-board announcement.
Best time to visit
Approximately 1 hour (including ride time). Arrive 30 minutes early to photograph the vehicle and explore the cultural village.
Access & map
〒775-0202 Kaminoichi, Kaiyo Town, Kaifu District, Tokushima Prefecture 73 (七三)
Model course featuring this spot
Kaiyo: World's First DMV and Takeshima Coral Reef Cruise - A Day of Vehicle Adventures
Tokushima
Explore features & model courses
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