By the MOOK Scenic Spots Tourism & Lifestyle Network Editorial Team
Many iconic scenes from classic Japanese dramas have taken place at train stations—some where protagonists meet in bustling city terminals, others where dashing detectives pass through while solving cases. But many obscure, nearly forgotten stations in remote, sparsely populated areas have gained fame in recent years for their unique charm and have become popular filming locations for TV dramas and shows. Travel companies have released a list of seven hidden gem stations, inviting visitors to explore these retro spots and discover their tranquil, off-the-beaten-path serenity.
Shimonada Station has been the filming location for numerous Japanese dramas and is arguably one of the country's most charming stations. (Image provided by Rakuten Travel)
•Most Well-Known No. 1 – Shimonada Station
Location: Okubo, Sakaide, Iyo City, Ehime Prefecture
Opening Date: June 9, 1935
This unmanned station on Shikoku has gained widespread fame after appearing multiple times in promotional posters for the JR Youth 18 Ticket. The slogan on the poster, “Get off if you want to,” inspires a sense of spontaneous freedom. The platform offers sweeping views of the Seto Inland Sea, making it a favorite filming spot for many acclaimed films and dramas.
Kanmuri Station is one of the most beloved unmanned stations on the JR Gonō Line. (Image provided by Rakuten Travel)
•Closest to Sea Level in All of Japan – Kanmuri Station
Location: Ogata, Furoda, Fukaura Town, Nishitsugaru District, Aomori Prefecture
Opening Date: December 13, 1934
This wooden unmanned station on the JR East Gono Line faces the Sea of Japan and is the only building in the area. The character “?” in Japanese refers to a scene of galloping horses, symbolizing the deafening roar of ocean waves so powerful they could frighten three horses—a vivid image of stormy seas. In 2002, it appeared on a Youth 18 Ticket promotional poster and quickly attracted railway fans from across the country, becoming a renowned hidden station.
The nostalgic atmosphere permeating Hakkei Station gives it a distinctive vibe. (Image provided by Rakuten Travel)
•Japan’s Northernmost Wooden Unmanned Station – Hakkei Station
Location: Kutonebetsu, Hakkei Village, Wakkanai City, Hokkaido
Opening Date: June 25, 1924
Hakkei Station, a wooden unmanned terminal in Hokkaido, is Japan’s northernmost unstaffed station. Set against a backdrop of year-round snow, it exudes an ancient, desolate charm. It has not only served as a backdrop for films and TV dramas but is also cherished by railway enthusiasts. Since opening in 1924, its waiting hall has retained its original appearance for 90 years. With only five trains stopping here daily, the nostalgic atmosphere is truly one of a kind.
The rapeseed flower scenery at Nishiodagawa Station is dazzlingly beautiful. (Image provided by Rakuten Travel)
•Delivering Happiness via a Yellow Mailbox – Nishidake Station
Location: Yamagawa, Yamanouchi, Satsuma Town, Kagoshima Prefecture
Opening Date: March 22, 1960
As the southernmost station in Japan operated by JR, its platform offers views of Kaimon-dake, one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains, creating a spectacular and majestic landscape that draws many visitors. Additionally, it’s said that the color yellow conveys happiness. Paired with the yellow hues of the region’s early spring rapeseed flowers, a rare yellow mailbox has been placed in front of the station, inviting visitors to send heartfelt messages to loved ones.
Fusetsu Station is Japan’s only bridge-based train station. (Image provided by Rakuten Travel)
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