Guida
Kofuku Station is a railway park developed on the site of a former station of the JNR Hiroo Line in Hokkaido. It gained immense popularity across Japan due to the catchy phrase 'From Ai-koku to Kofuku' (From the Country of Love to the Country of Happiness) featured in an NHK program in the 1970s. Today, the site serves as a place to experience the history of Japanese railway culture, featuring a replica of the original station building, actual diesel railcars, and vintage platforms.
The station's fame skyrocketed in 1973 when it was featured in the NHK travel program 'Shin Nihon Kiko' under the segment 'A Journey to Happiness: Obihiro.' At the time, tickets traveling from 'Ai-koku 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 preserved and managed by Obihiro City as a symbol of local history and a major tourist attraction.
The park features several historical railway vehicles that you can observe up close. Specifically, two Kiha 22 diesel railcars and one motor car are preserved in a static display. The station building, which partially incorporates walls from the original structure, maintains a deeply nostalgic atmosphere. A major highlight for visitors is the 'Happy Bell'; ringing this bell is a popular way for guests to wish for and invite happiness into their lives.
Kofuku Station offers different charms depending on the season. The period from May to August is particularly beautiful, with lush greenery making the outdoor displays and station scenery look exceptionally vivid. From late April to November, the 'Kofuku Station Happy Ceremony' is held, where mock wedding ceremonies take place, adding a celebratory atmosphere to your visit. Daytime is the best time for photography to capture the intricate details of the vintage railcars and the station architecture.
Beyond simple sightseeing, visitors can truly connect with Japanese railway culture. A quintessential experience is ringing the 'Happy Bell' to invite good fortune. During certain seasons, the site is also used for ceremonial purposes like mock weddings, making it a popular location for commemorative photography. For railway enthusiasts, seeing the preserved diesel cars and motor cars at close range is a rare and valuable experience.
The area around Kofuku Station is dotted with other sites rich in history. 'Kofuku Shrine' is located about a 15-minute walk away, allowing for a spiritual visit alongside your sightseeing. Additionally, 'Ai-koku Station,' the historical starting point of the famous phrase, is about a 15-minute drive away. Visiting both locations provides a deeper understanding of the railway history of the Tokachi region.
As the site is an outdoor park, you may encounter unpaved paths or areas near tracks and railcars; 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 months. While some signage is in English, information is limited, so it is wise to check details in advance. While photography of the station and vehicles is permitted, please be respectful of other visitors. As these are historical preserves, please strictly observe all 'No Entry' signs and avoid touching the vintage equipment.