Otoineppu Station - Hokkaido

Otoineppu Station (音威子府駅) is a railway station on the Sōya Main Line, operated by the Hokkaido Railway Company (JR Hokkaido). It is situated in the village of Otoineppu, within Nakagawa District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Otoineppu Station

Otoineppu Station Details

Otoineppu Station, the pride of Otoineppu Village, stands as a historical and cultural landmark in northern Hokkaido. Once a pivotal transportation hub where the Tenpoku Line branched from the Sōya Main Line, the station remains a vital stop for all regular trains, including express services like the "Sōya" and "Sarobetsu." In addition to its railway connections, Otoineppu Station serves as a transfer point for local and intercity buses linking nearby towns such as Nakatonbetsu, Hamatonbetsu, Sarufutsu, and Esashi.

Otoineppu Station - Otoineppu Village, Hokkaido Prefecture

A Unique Station in a Unique Setting

Nestled in the least populated municipality among stations served by JR express trains, Otoineppu Station offers a tranquil yet historically rich experience. Opened on November 5, 1912, as part of the Railway Sōya Line's expansion, the station has seen over a century of transformations that reflect the changing needs of its community and travelers.

Otoineppu Station Facade

There is a bus stop outside the station, so it's a very convenient place to start your trip

The pair of wooden owls outside the station

Historical Highlights

• 1952: The station’s overpass was modernized, marking a key infrastructure upgrade.
• 1980: The iconic Otoineppu Tower, a 15-meter-tall totem pole crafted by renowned sculptor Bikki Sunazawa, was erected in front of the station. This striking ash wood sculpture celebrates the village’s cultural heritage.
• 1987: Following the privatization of Japan’s National Railways, Otoineppu Station became part of JR Hokkaido.
• 1990: The current station building, the "Otoineppu Transportation Terminal," was completed. This modern facility includes a Sōya Bus counter and the Tenpoku Line Information Room.

Inside Otoineppu Station

Inside Otoineppu Station

There is an elevated tatami mat area if you want to relax while waiting for your bus or train

There is also a mini-art gallery inside the station

Otoineppu Station ticket booth

Declining Usage but Rich Heritage

During its heyday in the late 1960s, the station welcomed around 300 passengers daily. However, due to population decline and the closure of the Tenpoku Line, usage has significantly decreased, with fewer than 18 passengers per day on average in 2022. Despite this, the station continues to draw railway enthusiasts and history buffs.

The Tenpoku Line Reference Room: A Glimpse Into the Past

Today, Otoineppu Station is home to the Tenpoku Line Reference Room, a railway museum showcasing memorabilia from the defunct line. One standout exhibit is a retro Showa-era crane game, adding a nostalgic touch to this historical treasure trove.

Inside the Tenpoku Line Reference Room

Tenpoku Line Reference Room

Inside the Tenpoku Line Reference Room

Some memorabilia are on display here

The Legendary "Tokiwaken" Soba

Otoineppu Station was once synonymous with its soba noodle shop, Tokiwaken, a beloved eatery dating back to the era of steam locomotives. Known for its signature "Otoineppu soba," the shop served travelers and locals alike and became a celebrated local specialty. After a brief closure due to the aging owners, Tokiwaken reopened in 2019 but permanently closed in 2021 following the owner’s passing. Its legacy, however, lives on in the memories of visitors who cherished its flavorful offerings.

Team Nicerio visits Otoineppu Station

Don't forget to get the Otoineppu Station stamp when you visit.

My daughter and I visited Otoineppu Station on July 17, 2023, during the last day of our Father and Daughter Road Trip #5. It was also my 623rd day in Japan as an ALT with the JET Programme. After reading about it in an old blog, I originally planned to try the famous Tokiwaken Soba. Unfortunately, I hadn’t researched enough to realize the restaurant had closed in 2021—I arrived two years too late. Despite this, my daughter and I enjoyed exploring the Tenpoku Line Reference Room, where we delved into the rich history of the train line.

Otoineppu Station Admission Fee

Enrolling the Otoineppu Station, including the Tenpoku Line Reference Room, is FREE.

Otoineppu Station Operating Hours

Otoineppu Station is open until the last train arrives, but the Tenpoku Line Reference Room is open only from 9:30 AM to 4 PM.

Why Visit Otoineppu Station?

Otoineppu Station isn’t just a stop on the map; it’s a gateway to Hokkaido’s rich railway history and a reflection of the village’s enduring spirit. Whether you’re a railway enthusiast, a history lover, or a traveler seeking unique experiences, this station offers a journey back in time.

Visit Otoineppu Station to discover its stories, admire its heritage, and step into a piece of Hokkaido’s timeless charm.

Getting to Otoineppu Station

 

From Asahikawa Station

Ride the Asahikawa - Esashi Terminal bus operated by the Soya Bus Company. Board down at Otoineppu Station. 

Travel time: 2 hours 43 minutes

Fare: 3,400 yen

From Wakkanai Station

Ride the Soya Line Local Nayoro JR Train and get down at Otoineppu Station.

Travel time: 2 hours 36 minutes

Fare: 3,520 yen

From Nayoro Station

Board the Soya Line Local Otoineppu JR Train and get down at Otoineppu Station.

Travel time: 1 hour 1 minute

Fare: 1,380 yen

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