Tenryu Futamata Station

Tenryu Futamata Station, located in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, stands as one of Japan's most historically significant railway stations. Built in 1940, this wooden station building has been designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property and serves as the main hub for the Tenryu Hamanako Railroad. The station represents a rare surviving example of pre-war Japanese railway architecture and continues to function as an active transportation facility.

The station gained cultural prominence as the setting for the popular Japanese film "Railway Man" and has become a pilgrimage site for railway enthusiasts and film fans alike. Its traditional wooden construction, complete with original fixtures and waiting rooms, provides an authentic glimpse into Japan's railway heritage from the Showa era. The surrounding area maintains much of its historical character, with traditional buildings and rural landscapes that complement the station's nostalgic atmosphere.

Visitors can explore the station's interior, which features period furnishings, vintage railway equipment, and displays about local railway history. The adjacent Railway Museum showcases historic trains and railway artifacts. Train rides on the Tenryu Hamanako line offer scenic journeys through rural Shizuoka, passing through forests, farmland, and small traditional towns. Photography is particularly popular, with the station's wooden platform and classic architecture providing excellent subjects.

The experience varies notably with seasons. Spring brings cherry blossoms around the station grounds, while autumn offers vibrant foliage along the railway routes. Summer provides lush green landscapes but can be quite humid. Winter delivers clear mountain views and fewer crowds, making it ideal for photography and quiet contemplation.

Tenryu Futamata Station is accessible via the Tenryu Hamanako Railroad from Shinjohara Station, which connects to JR Tokaido Main Line. The journey from Hamamatsu Station takes approximately 45 minutes. Limited express services run hourly during peak times. Station access is free, though train rides require standard fare tickets ranging from ¥200-800 depending on destination. The station operates daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Parking is available for those traveling by car, located 200 meters from the station building.