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Former Japan National Railways Temiya Line

Take a nostalgic stroll through the retro railway remnants.

Last update :
Head Editor : Otaru City

Part of the first railway in Hokkaido, the "Government-Operated Horonai Railway," was laid to transport coal mined from the Horonai coal mine in the current Mikasa City to the port city of Otaru. It was in operation from its opening in 1880 until its closure in 1985.

Today, the former railway site has been revitalized into a walking trail by the city of Otaru. Stretching approximately 1.6 kilometers from the central area to the Otaru City Comprehensive Museum, the trail follows the path of Hokkaido's railway origins. The original tracks, level crossings, and barriers have been preserved, keeping the atmosphere of the past alive. In 2018, it was designated as a Hokkaido Heritage site under the name "Otaru's Railway Heritage."

Along the walking trail adorned with seasonal flowers, visitors can capture commemorative photos at the railway remnants. It's highly praised for providing opportunities for unique and photogenic shots. The trail, which takes about 30 minutes to stroll from north to south, is lined with retro attractions such as the former Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK Line) Otaru Branch, and cafes and dance halls housed in stone warehouses.

Highlights

  • A walking trail revitalized from the former railway site in operation from 1880 to 1985.
  • Extending approximately 1.6 kilometers from north to south.
  • Preserves original railway tracks, barriers, and level crossings, offering plenty of nostalgic photo opportunities.

Photos

  • Walking trail utilizing the actual railway in operation.

    Walking trail utilizing the actual railway in operation.

  • Retro buildings scattered along the walking trail.

    Retro buildings scattered along the walking trail.

  • Abandoned railway remnants adorned with lush greenery and seasonal flowers.

    Abandoned railway remnants adorned with lush greenery and seasonal flowers.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have foreign language pamphlets, signs, etc.?

A

There are no pamphlets or signs specifically for the Former National Railway Temiya Line. However, information is available in foreign languages on tourist maps. Languages supported include English, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, and Korean.

Q

Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?

A

No free Wi-Fi available.

Q

Are coin lockers available?

A

Not available.

Reviews

Details

Name in Japanese
旧国鉄手宮線
Postal Code
047-0031
Address
From Ironai to Temiya, Otaru City, Hokkaido
Telephone
0134-32-4111(Otaru City Hall)、0134-33-2510(Otaru Tourism Association)
Closed
Free to walk
Business Hours
Walk anytime
Admission
Free
Access
About 15 minutes walk from JR Otaru Station
Official Website
Otaru City Official Website (Japanese)
Otaru Tourism Association Official Website (Japanese)