Guide
Shinano-Morakami Station is a station on the JR East Oito Line, located in Hakuba Village, Kitaazumi District, Nagano Prefecture. Identified by station number "12," it is a ground-level station featuring a single platform and a single track. While it once boasted two platforms and two tracks to accommodate many more trains, it currently operates as an unstaffed station. The surrounding area is incredibly peaceful, characterized by residential homes, small lodges, and vast stretches of farmland to the west, with majestic mountains visible in the distance.
The station's history dates back to November 20, 1932, when the section between Kamishiro Station and this station opened on the JNR Oito South Line for both passenger and freight services. Following the completion of the full line in 1957, it was renamed the Oito Line. In the mid-1990s, the station was a significant stop for the regular and seasonal express train "Alps," and it was also a stop for the seasonal "Kuroyon" express from Osaka. The station became unstaffed in 1983, and the station building was renovated in 2007. Interestingly, the station has a connection to cinema, having appeared as "Hakuba Momoyama Station" in the film "Gin-iro no Season."
While there are no major tourist facilities directly at the station, the view from the platform itself is a highlight of the Japanese countryside. The contrast between the wide rice fields to the west and the towering mountains behind them offers a different beauty in every season. For railway enthusiasts, the station holds historical charm as a place where express trains once stopped. It is a perfect spot for travelers seeking the authentic, everyday beauty of rural Japan rather than flashy tourist attractions.
The scenery changes dramatically with the seasons. From spring to summer, the surrounding fields turn a lush green, and the mountains are draped in vibrant foliage. In autumn, the mountains undergo a stunning transformation with colorful fall leaves. In winter, the station is often enveloped in the heavy snow characteristic of the Hakuba region, creating a beautiful silver landscape. Because train frequency is limited, it is essential to check the timetable in advance. During the day, the platform offers excellent views of the mountain ranges.
The primary experience at Shinano-Morakami is the journey itself. Travelers can enjoy the scenic ride along the Oito Line toward either Matsumoto or Itoigawa. Additionally, you can access the Hakuba area by using the nearby "Iwatake Shinden" bus stop to catch the Alpico Kotsu bus toward destinations like Hakuba Cortina. Waiting for a train in this quiet, mountain air is a luxurious way to experience the slow pace of Japanese life.
The area around the station is rich in nature. The neighborhood is quiet, consisting of local residences and lodges. From here, you can easily reach major tourist spots in the Hakuba area via local bus services. The landscape reflects a harmonious coexistence between human life and nature, making it a great starting point for walking or exploring the local scenery.
As Shinano-Morakami is an unstaffed station, ticket services and staff assistance are extremely limited. Please purchase your tickets in advance or confirm if your IC card is accepted. Since the station is located in a mountainous region, bring clothing suitable for the season (especially warm layers for winter and weather changes). To maintain the peaceful environment of the local community, please be mindful of noise levels and ensure you take all trash with you. When taking photos, please ensure you do not interfere with train operations.