The vehicles used are 3 extensively modified Toyota Coaster minibuses, claimed to be the first in the world, which enable through service to locations without rail infrastructure.

Japanese National Railways started the construction of the eastern section of the Asa Line in 1959, proposed to reach Muroto, where it would connect with the planned extension of the western section of the Asa line from Kochi.

Awa-Kainan Station has been transferred to Asa Coast Railway Company since 1 November 2020 for the purpose of constructing the required changeover facilities for the DMV.

The development of DMV started in 2011 as an alternative to traditional, more expensive, DMU trains for rail lines with limited passengers.

In February 2016, Tokushima Prefecture announced its intentions of introducing DMV in commercial operations in the next 10 years.

On 10 January 2019, in preparation for the construction of DMV changeover facilities, the parking area and bus terminal near Kannoura Station was relocated 50 m south.

On 4 November 2021, the Railway Bureau of the MLIT announced the completion of safety inspections and tests of the DMV conducted on the Asato Line.

[4][5] Services commence at Awakainan Bunkamura (Awa-Kainan Cultural Village) bus stop then proceed to Awa-Kainan Station to enter the railway line, travel south along the railway line to Kannoura Station, exit the railway line then proceed north to terminate at Michinoeki Shishikui Onsen (Roadside Station Shishikui Onsen) bus stop.

[1] Bookings can be made in person at Shishikui Station or at Japan Bus Online (in English).