Former Hokuriku Line Tunnel Group

The Former Hokuriku Line tunnel group represents a collection of historic railway remnants spanning Tsuruga City and Minamiechizen Town in Fukui Prefecture. When the Tsuruga-Fukui section opened in 1892, thirteen tunnels were constructed between Tsuruga and Imajo to traverse the challenging Kinome-toge mountain pass, with eleven tunnels remaining today. The railway line operated until 1962, when the modern Hokuriku Tunnel replaced the original route, making these structures over a century old.

Thirteen civil engineering structures from this railway have been designated as nationally registered tangible cultural properties. The site encompasses not only the tunnels but also embankments, bridges, and culverts that demonstrate Meiji-era engineering techniques. Notable structures include the Trap Mountain Valley Culvert, the longest culvert on the former Hokuriku Line, and the Yamanaka Rock Shed, which is Japan's first prestressed concrete rockfall lining. Among the tunnels, the Kotone Tunnel stands out as Japan's oldest existing tunnel in its original form, measuring 56 meters long. The Yamanaka Tunnel, completed in 1896, extends 1,170 meters with a brick construction featuring five arches, while the Habara Tunnel measures 979 meters with an imposing stone and brick entrance showcasing nearly symmetrical cut stone masonry.

Visitors can explore these historic structures as the former Hokuriku Line site is currently used as a community road accessible by car or on foot. Driving through the route is recommended for convenience, with scenic views of the Sea of Japan and Tsuruga Bay visible near the Suizu area. The tunnels preserve soot marks from steam locomotives, including the D51 model that once operated through these passages, offering a tangible connection to Japan's railway heritage.

Access to the tunnel group begins from JR Tsuruga Station, which is directly connected to Tokyo via the Hokuriku Shinkansen that opened on March 16, 2024. For specific tunnels like the Habara Tunnel, visitors can take the Togo Line community bus from JR Tsuruga Station (requiring advance reservations) for approximately 12 to 42 minutes, then walk about 25 minutes. Alternatively, taxi service from the station takes approximately 20 minutes. By car, the site is roughly 25 minutes from the Tsuruga IC on the Hokuriku Expressway. The tunnels are open year-round with no admission fees, making them freely accessible to railway enthusiasts and history travelers alike.