Shimokawa Bustling Square - Hokkaido

Bustling Square (にぎわいの広場) is the central park of the town of Shimokawa. It is located at 6-1 Kyoeimachi, Shimokawa town in Kamikawa District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Bustling Square

Bustling Square Details

Tucked away in the scenic town of Shimokawa in northern Hokkaido, Bustling Square is a charming destination where history, community, and culture come together. Once the site of the old Shimokawa Station on the now-defunct Nayoro Main Line, this square has been reimagined as a vibrant public space—complete with preserved railway relics and year-round local events.

Bustling Square - Shimokawa town, Hokkaido Prefecture

See the Iconic Kiha 22 Diesel Railcars Up Close

At the heart of Bustling Square are two well-maintained Kiha 22 diesel railcars, once operated along the historic JR Nayoro Main Line, which played a crucial role in connecting remote communities across Hokkaido. These retired railcars are now on permanent display, inviting visitors to step back in time and experience a slice of Japan’s railway heritage. While overnight stays in the passenger cars were once possible, the site now focuses on preservation and public enjoyment.

にぎわいの広場

The large tree at the heart of Shimokawa Bustling Square

A Venue for Local Festivals and Events

Bustling Square lives up to its name by hosting beloved local festivals such as the annual Udon Festival and various seasonal fairs. Situated beside a peaceful public park, the square is a popular hangout spot for residents and an ideal stop for travelers looking to experience authentic small-town Hokkaido charm.

Preserved Kiha 22 245 Diesel Car 

The interior of the Kiha 22 245

Whether you're a railway enthusiast, a festival-goer, or simply exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, Bustling Square in Shimokawa offers a memorable mix of nostalgia, culture, and local flavor.

Team Nicerio visits Bustling Square

On July 15, 2023, my daughter and I visited Bustling Square in Shimokawa for the very first time. It was a special day—not just because it marked our first destination in Shimokawa, but also because it was my 621st day in Japan as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) under the JET Programme.

We had originally hoped to stay overnight inside the iconic Kiha 22 diesel train, which was once available as a unique lodging experience. Unfortunately, we found out that the overnight stays had already been discontinued. Despite that, we still had a great time admiring the well-preserved train cars and capturing photos of this nostalgic piece of Hokkaido’s railway history.

A sudden downpour cut short our visit, but even the rain couldn’t dampen our appreciation for the site. I sincerely hope the local government considers reopening the train accommodation in the future—we would absolutely love to experience it one day.

 

Bustling Square Admission Fee

It’s FREE to enter and explore the Bustling Square. You can also take photos of the train as many times as you want. There is also a clean toilet here that is free to use.

 

Bustling Square Operating Hours

Bustling Square is open 24/7.

 

Why visit Bustling Square?

Bustling Square offers a quiet space to pause, appreciate the beautifully preserved Kiha 22 train, and reflect on its historical role in connecting communities across Hokkaido. While there may not be many other attractions nearby, this display is a meaningful stop for history lovers and train enthusiasts alike. It’s a modest yet impactful destination that showcases Shimokawa’s commitment to preserving its local heritage for future generations.

Getting to Shimokawa Bustling Square

 

From Nayoro Station's bus stop, board the Okoppe Sen-bound bus operated by the Meishi Bus Company, and get down at the Shimokawa Bus Terminal. 

The Shimokawa Bustling Square is just 240 meters away.

Travel time: 32 minutes

Fare: 470 yen

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