Railway fans, rejoice！A collection of Japan’s most bizarre train stations

By MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Network Editorial Team

When traveling in Japan, uniquely packaged souvenirs always amaze and delight. But Japan’s creativity isn’t limited to small items—now even train stations incorporate local character with imaginative designs, taking on all kinds of quirky shapes. Next time you visit Japan, why not embark on a railway adventure themed around collecting unique stations?

Besides its distinctive appearance, its eyes are designed to look like clocks, reminding passengers of departure times.

Although it may look a bit like a duck, it’s actually designed in the shape of a kappa (water imp)! Tajima Maru Station in Kurume City, Fukuoka Prefecture, was renovated in 1992. Since many legends about kappas are told in the area—including tales that kappas live in the Chikugo River that runs through Tajima Maru Town—the station was modeled after one. On the first floor, you can buy local specialties and pick up tourist information, while the second floor houses a kappa museum featuring numerous kappa sculptures.

The west side of Kintetsu Tomida Station features a massive gray whale design. Its huge mouth serves as the station entrance. In addition, it’s also known as an eco-friendly station, with a solar power generation system installed on the whale's back—making its architecture both fun and environmentally conscious.