Mokoto Station is a small railway station located in Abashiri, Hokkaido, Japan, serving as a stop along the Senmō Main Line operated by Hokkaido Railway Company. The station was opened in 1924 and represents a piece of early railway heritage in Japan's northernmost island. The station building itself is a wooden, unmanned structure built during the Taisho period, offering visitors a glimpse into the architectural style of early 20th-century rural Japanese railway stations.
The station's cultural significance extends beyond its transportation function. The station building has been used as a movie location, making it a popular destination for film enthusiasts and couples. The preserved interior retains authentic railway memorabilia from when it operated as a manned station, including a station master's hat, ticket box, and an old potbellied stove. These historical artifacts provide an atmospheric window into Japan's railway history and the daily operations of rural stations from decades past.
Visitors can experience the station through its unique coffee shop, which occupies what was once the old station office. This establishment serves regional specialties including Ryuhyo (pack-ice) Ramen made with Hokkai shrimp and traditional curry, allowing travelers to enjoy local cuisine while surrounded by vintage railway atmosphere. The combination of historical architecture, railway artifacts, and local food creates an immersive cultural experience that distinguishes Mokoto Station from typical transportation hubs.
The station is accessible via the Senmō Main Line, with both local and Rapid Shiretoko services stopping at station B77. It sits between neighboring stations along the line connecting Kushiro and Abashiri. Nearby attractions include Lake Mokoto, located approximately 0.7 miles from the station. The station is unmanned and entry to the platform area is free, though train fares apply for rail travel. The coffee shop operates independently within the station building.
