The quiet town of Rumoi in Hokkaido might not sound familiar to many, but for me, it’s a place etched deeply in my memories. In October 2020, I had the chance to visit Rumoi Station, a modest yet historic railway hub. What makes this memory even more poignant is that the station officially closed on April 1, 2023, ending an era for the Rumoi Main Line. Here’s my story of discovering this hidden gem before it became a part of history.
The Legacy of Rumoi Station
Nestled in Rumoi City along Hokkaido’s rugged coastline, Rumoi Station once served as the final stop of the Rumoi Main Line. For decades, it connected coastal towns to larger cities, becoming an integral part of the local community. Unlike sleek modern stations, Rumoi Station had a rustic charm. The wooden interiors, vintage ticket windows, and the faint scent of the sea in the air made it feel like stepping into a time capsule.
When I walked into the station, I was struck by its simplicity. Photographs and memorabilia curated by locals lined the walls, reflecting their deep affection for this place. There was a sense of pride and nostalgia in the air, a feeling that transcended time.
Getting There: A Serene Ride
Travelling to Rumoi from Asahikawa was an experience in itself. The train meandered through picturesque landscapes, showcasing Hokkaido’s serene beauty. Golden fields, gentle hills, and the Sea of Japan glimmering under the autumn sun were my companions throughout the journey. The rhythmic sound of the train felt like a lullaby, lulling me into a reflective mood.
I wasn’t alone in this farewell. Fellow passengers, many of whom were locals, shared their stories of how the Rumoi Main Line had shaped their lives. From childhood adventures to commutes to work, the line wasn’t just transportation; it was a lifeline, a thread weaving their stories together.
A Taste of Rumoi
Rumoi City welcomed me with its quiet charm and delicious seafood. I indulged in fresh uni (sea urchin) and grilled hokke (atka mackerel) at a local market. The flavours were as authentic as the town itself, rich and unforgettable.
Walking along the coastline, I soaked in the cool autumn breeze. The dramatic cliffs and the vast expanse of the sea felt like nature’s masterpiece. It was humbling to think that such beauty existed, often overlooked by mainstream travellers.
The Final Goodbye
Rumoi Station’s closure was a sombre occasion. On my visit, I joined a small gathering of locals and railway enthusiasts who had come to bid farewell. There were heartfelt speeches, songs, and a palpable sense of loss in the air. Watching the last train pull out of the station was a moment I’ll never forget — the whistle’s echo lingering long after the train disappeared into the horizon.
When the station officially closed on April 1, 2023, it wasn’t just a building that was lost. It was the memories, the connections, and the essence of a community tied to those tracks.
Why It Matters
Visiting Rumoi Station taught me that some of the most meaningful travel experiences aren’t about grand destinations but about the stories we uncover along the way. This humble station was a reminder to cherish the unsung places that quietly shape lives.
Remembering Rumoi Station
- Location: Rumoi City, Hokkaido, Japan
- Former Train Line: Rumoi Main Line
- Closure Date: April 1, 2023
- Highlights: Coastal scenery, seafood, and its nostalgic railway charm
