Guide
Doai Station, located in Minakami Town, Gunma Prefecture, is a railway station with a truly extraordinary structure. Its most striking feature is the steep staircase consisting of 462 steps that bridge a 70-meter elevation difference between the station building and the platform. Because of this, it has long been affectionately known as 'Japan's Most Famous Mole Station.' Descending into the massive, tunnel-like underground space feels like stepping into a different world. More than just a transit point, the station's unique architecture makes it a destination in its own right—a rare piece of railway heritage.
Doai Station has a rich history dating back to its opening in 1936. During the peak of mountain climbing at Mt. Tanigawa, the station was once bustling with crowds. Records show that during the opening of the Tanigawa hiking season in 1960, the platforms were filled with people arriving via night trains from Ueno. In the past, climbers even held competitions to see who could race up the stairs the fastest. While passenger numbers decreased with the advent of the Joetsu Shinkansen and the Kan-etsu Expressway, the station remains a significant cultural site for railway fans and tourists drawn to its unique architectural value and status as a notable piece of Japanese civil engineering.
The ultimate highlight is the 462-step staircase leading from the station building to the underground platform. Navigating these steps allows you to feel the physical sensation of descending deep into the earth. Once you reach the bottom, you are greeted by a vast, cavernous underground space that is truly awe-inspiring. The rugged, industrial-style structure, combined with the profound silence and unique atmosphere of the underground, offers an experience unlike any other station in Japan. The dramatic perspective of the stairs and the depth of the tunnel make it a highly popular spot for photography.
You can enjoy the unique atmosphere of Doai Station year-round. During the summer and autumn, the station serves as a gateway for hikers visiting the surrounding mountains. However, please be mindful of the limited train schedules. Daytime visits are recommended to better appreciate the depth and scale of the stairs and the underground space, which is also ideal for photography. Because temperatures can fluctuate significantly between the surface and the underground, and seasonal weather can be unpredictable, please prepare accordingly for the specific season.
At Doai Station, the act of climbing and descending the stairs becomes an activity in itself. Completing the 462-step ascent provides a genuine sense of accomplishment. For railway enthusiasts, seeing this specialized structure with their own eyes is the ultimate reward. Since the station is near hiking routes like Mt. Tanigawa, it can serve as a unique starting point or a memorable destination during a mountain-trekking journey.
The area around Doai Station is dotted with spots where you can experience Japan's rich nature and history. It serves as a gateway to the Mt. Tanigawa hiking area and offers a glimpse into the atmosphere of historic post towns. Additionally, as part of Minakami Town—a famous hot spring resort area—travelers can easily combine a visit to the station with a relaxing soak in a local Onsen to deeply experience the culture and nature of Gun-ma.
Since the main experience involves significant climbing and descending, sturdy walking shoes or sneakers are mandatory. Please avoid wearing heels or sandals. Because the underground space can be damp and the temperature differs from the surface, wearing layers is highly recommended.
Payment for train fares is typically handled via cash or common Japanese IC cards (such as Suica/PASMO). It is best to have cash ready for smoother travel.
English-language signage and staff support are limited at this station. It is helpful to have a translation app or a digital note prepared for your journey.
No advance reservation is required to use the station, but it is essential to check the train timetable in advance, as service is infrequent.
Photography of the station structure and scenery is permitted, but please be respectful of other passengers and avoid obstructing train operations.
Due to the extremely steep and numerous stairs, this station is not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers. Please plan your visit with the understanding that there are significant physical barriers.