Ikutora Station - Hokkaido

Ikutora Station (幾寅駅) was a historic former station of the Hokkaido Railway Company (JR Hokkaido). It’s located at Ikutora in the town of Minamifurano, Sorachi District in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Ikutora Station

Ikutora Station Details

Ikutora Station offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s rich railway history and its cultural intersections. Known for its origins tied to the Ainu word “Yukturashpet”—meaning “deer climbing river,” which refers to the present-day Yukutrashubetsu River—the station has stood as a witness to the evolution of transportation and storytelling in Japan.

Ikutora Station - Minamifurano town, Hokkaido Prefecture

A Timeline of Ikutora Station’s Rich History

Ikutora Station first opened on December 6, 1902, during the Meiji era as part of the Hokkaido Government Railway Tokachi Line, connecting Asahikawa and Ochiai. A few years later, on April 1, 1905, the station was transferred to the Ministry of Railways. By October 12, 1909, it became part of the Kushiro Line after the Tokachi Line was integrated into it. The station underwent another change on November 10, 1913, when the line was renamed the Kushiro Main Line.

Pictures From Outside Ikutora Station

The toilet next to Ikutora Station

The station was named Horomai Station in the movie Poppoya

The station is seen from the platform behind it.

The railway track. Sadly, no more trains would stop here.

Ikutora Station sign

Poppoya's Kiha-40 and the Daruma Shokudo

Photos inside the Poppoya's Kiha-40

You will see autographs of the actors of the film Poppoya

In 1933, the station faced a major setback when its building was destroyed by fire in February. However, it was quickly rebuilt and relocated to the north side in June of the same year. After decades of serving as a vital part of Hokkaido's rail system, Ikutora Station was officially closed on April 1, 2024, with the cessation of service between Furano and Shintoku stations. At the time of its closure, the station retained its quaint charm with a single platform, one track, and a wooden building.

Inside Ikutora Station*

* Ikutora Station was still open when we visited. In short, we were lucky to have still seen it in operation.

Railroad Man (Poppoya) Exhibit Room

Railroad Man (Poppoya) Exhibit Room

A Star in Japanese Cinema: Railroad Man (Poppoya)

Ikutora Station gained international recognition as “Horomai Station” in the iconic Japanese film Railroad Man (Poppoya). The station was transformed to fit the narrative of a coal transport line terminus.

Key features include:

• Film Renovations: The station building underwent significant renovations for the movie.
• Preserved Film Memorabilia: The front end of the Kiha 40 764 diesel railcar, which starred as “Kiha 12 23,” was preserved in front of the station after being scrapped in 2005.
• Movie-Themed Displays: Inside the waiting room, visitors can find photographs, props, autographs of cast members, and other memorabilia from the film.
• Fan Attractions: The nearby preserved film set, including a restaurant, continues to draw fans and cinephiles alike.

Team Nicerio visits Ikutora Station

On August 13, 2023, my family and I visited the historic Ikutora Station, an experience that marked my 650th day in Japan as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) under the JET Programme. Being an avid fan of Ken Takakura and his legendary films, visiting this iconic location was a must for our itinerary.

The station’s cinematic charm, tied to Takakura’s classic film Railroad Man (Poppoya), made the visit all the more special. My daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed exploring the memorabilia and photographs displayed inside the station. Each item told a story of the station’s dual significance as both a cultural and cinematic landmark, offering us a unique and memorable experience that connected us with Hokkaido’s rich history and Takakura’s timeless legacy.

Ikutora Station Fees

It’s FREE to enter and explore the station and its grounds.

Ikutora Station Operating Hours

Ikutora Station is open from 8 AM to 5 PM. This schedule might have been changed after the station’s closure in 2024.

Why Visit Ikutora Station?

Even though the station closed its operations in 2024, its historical charm and pop culture significance make it a beloved spot for history buffs and film enthusiasts. Visitors can immerse themselves in its storied past, admire its cinematic legacy, and explore the natural beauty of the surrounding Yukutrashubetsu River area.

Getting to Ikutora Station

 

With the closure of the station in 2024, getting to Ikutora Station became less straightforward. It is highly recommended that you visit it by rental car if you are not coming from Furano City. If you plan to use public transportation, this is what I'm familiar with:

In Furano City, go to Jinjamae bus stop and board the Nishitappu Line - To Ikutora Station Mae bus operated by Furano Bus Company. Board down at Ikutora Station Mae bus stop. 

Travel time: 1 hour and 3 minutes

Fare: 1,200 yen

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