The Miyazu Line, which had originally been operated by Japan National Railways, was designated a Special Local Line (3rd class) under the Act for Special Measures to Promote Restructuring of Japan National Railways, and after being operated by West Japan Railway Company, it was taken over by Kita-Kinki Tango Railway from April 1, 1990.
元々は日本国有鉄道が運営する路線であったが、日本国有鉄道経営再建促進特別措置法の規定により特定地方交通線（第3次）に指定され、西日本旅客鉄道を経て、1990年4月1日から北近畿タンゴ鉄道が承継したものである。