Guide
Kofuku Station is a railway park developed on the site of a former station from the JNR Hiroo Line in Hokkaido. It gained nationwide fame in the 1970s following a broadcast on an NHK program that featured the romantic catchphrase, "From the Land of Love to the Land of Happiness." Today, the site serves as a living museum of Japanese railway culture, featuring a replica of the original station building, preserved diesel locomotives, and the historic platforms.
The station's popularity skyrocketed in 1973 when it was featured in the NHK travel program 'Shin Nihon Kiko' (New Japan Travelogue) in an episode titled 'Journey to Happiness: Obihiro.' During that era, tickets marked 'From Aikoku Station to Kofuku Station' became a massive sensation, symbolizing a 'passport to happiness,' with tens of millions of tickets sold. Although the line was discontinued in 1987, the site is now carefully maintained by Obihiro City as a significant symbol of local history and a beloved tourist landmark.
The grounds feature several historical railway vehicles that can be observed up close. Specifically, two Kiha 22 diesel locomotives and one motor car are preserved in a static display. The current station building, which incorporated parts of the original exterior walls during a reconstruction in 2013, maintains a deeply nostalgic atmosphere. One of the most popular activities is ringing the 'Happy Bell,' a ritual where visitors ring the bell to wish for happiness and good fortune.
Kofuku Station offers different charms depending on the season. The summer months from May to August are particularly beautiful, with lush greenery providing a vibrant backdrop for the vintage trains and station architecture. From late April to late November, the 'Kofuku Station Happy Ceremony' is held, where mock weddings take place, creating a celebratory and romantic atmosphere. For the best photography, visiting during bright daylight hours will allow you to capture the fine details of the vintage locomotives and the station structure.
Beyond simple sightseeing, visitors can truly connect with Japan's railway heritage. A highlight is the chance to ring the 'Happy Bell' to invite happiness into your life. During certain seasons, the site is used for mock wedding ceremonies, making it a popular location for photography and celebrations. For railway enthusiasts, seeing the preserved Kiha 22 diesel cars and motor cars up close is a rare and valuable experience.
There are several nearby spots to explore the history of the Tokachi region. Kofuku Shrine is located about a 15-minute walk from the station, allowing for a peaceful visit to the shrine. Additionally, Aikoku Station is approximately a 15-minute drive away; many tourists visit both stations together to complete the historical journey that fueled the original 'happiness' craze.
As this is an outdoor park, the terrain includes unpaved areas and proximity to railway tracks; comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Regarding payments, if you use the local shop, please note that cash (Japanese Yen) is the primary method of payment during the summer season. Credit cards and IC cards may not be widely accepted at the small shop. English signage is limited, so it is helpful to check information in advance. While photography of the trains and station is encouraged, please be respectful of other visitors. As these are historical artifacts, please strictly observe all 'No Entry' signs and avoid touching the preserved vehicles and buildings.