Japan's Most Unique Train Stations
Extreme Underground and Elevated Train Stations
Check out some of Japan's highest and deepest train stations.
In a country full of both mountainous terrain and stunning innovation, it's no surprise that Japan's extensive rail network features some unique and interesting train stations. Here are some of our favorite stations located at extreme heights - and depths! Order your Japan Rail Pass today!
Uzui Station (宇都井駅)
This elevated train station is located on a bridge that soars 30 meters in the air! Uzui Station can be found in the middle of Shimane prefecture, north of Hiroshima. Although this station sees an average of less than one passenger per day, this station has proved a point of interest to many who go out of their way to see it.
The station even held a light-up event in 2013!
Tosa-Kitagawa Station (土佐北川駅)
This station, in Kochi Prefecture in southern Shikoku, is another stunning station high up on a bridge, running over a river.This train line runs through many mountains, requiring a lot of bridges to form as straight a track as possible.
It was impossible to build a ground-level train station anywhere near this area!
Misashima Station (美佐島駅)
Another tunnel station located in Niigata, this Misashima can be found on the way to one of Niigata's best ski spots, Gala Yuzawa.
Because of strong, dangerous winds that whip through this tunnel, passengers must wait upstairs unless a local train is scheduled to make a stop. Even then, passengers can only stay on the platform for 2 minutes!
Who would have thought that this tiny little wooden station houses such a treacherous platform down below!
Tsutsuishi Station (筒石駅)
This station is located inside a tunnel that goes through a mountain, but all station attendants and the actual station building are all above ground.
Doai Station (土合駅)
Doai Station, in Gunma, west of Tokyo, is one of Japan's best-known underground stations.The stations runs 70 meters underground and is famous for its eerie ascent to ground level, pictured here.
The station has also been featured in a popular Japanese novel (and subsequent TV drama), and is actually a great spot for outdoor sports of all kinds!