Shintoku Station (新得駅)
is one of the stations along the Sekisho Line of the Hokkaido Railway Company.
It is located at 1 Chome Hondorikita in the town of Shintoku, Kamikawa District
in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.
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| Shintoku Station |
Shintoku Station Details
Shintoku Station, a vital stop along Hokkaido’s railway
network, combines modern functionality with a rich historical legacy. As of
April 1, 2024, this station remains a key junction, providing seamless connectivity for travelers exploring the region. Here's everything you
need to know about this remarkable station.
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| Shintoku Station - Shintoku town, Hokkaido Prefecture |
A Modern Rail Layout
Shintoku Station features a total of three tracks, supported
by two island platforms and two single platforms. The main line for outbound
trains is conveniently located at Platform 1, situated on the station building
side, while inbound trains primarily use Platform 2. However, all tracks are
designed to accommodate both inbound and outbound services. Additionally,
several sidings are available for train storage, where local train cars are
parked.
Shintoku Station facade
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| 新得駅 |
From April 2024, all express trains will exclusively stop at
Platform 1, while outbound local trains depart from Platforms 1 and 3. This
streamlined system ensures efficiency for daily commuters and tourists alike.
A Journey Through Time
Shintoku Station is more than just a transit hub—it stands
as a living testament to the evolution of Japan's railway history. Since its
opening on September 8, 1907, during the Meiji era, the station has witnessed
remarkable milestones. Initially established as part of the Imperial Railways,
it included a locomotive depot that underscored its importance. In the early
20th century, from 1910 to 1919, Shintoku played a pivotal role in the local
timber industry, with Oji Paper utilizing horse-drawn railway lines to
transport materials.
Inside Shintoku Station
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| Inside Shintoku Station |
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| The souvenir shop inside the station |
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| Pokemon-themed vending machine |
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| Sobadokoro Sekiguchi |
By 1954, the station gained cultural significance when it
hosted Emperor Showa and Empress Kojun during their visit, a moment celebrated
with a grand welcoming ceremony. Between 1966 and 1981, significant upgrades
transformed the station, including the opening of the Sekisho Line, further
cementing its position as a key regional transportation hub.
Most recently, in
April 2024, the abolition of the Furano to Shintoku section of the Nemuro Main
Line marked another shift in its legacy, making Shintoku the sole passenger
junction on the Sekisho Line, a testament to its enduring significance in
Hokkaido's rail network.
A Unique Attraction: Shintoku Pokémon Manhole Cover
A delightful feature for visitors is the Shintoku Pokémon manhole cover near the station’s main entrance. This charming cover showcases Alolan
Vulpix and Teddiursa, making it a popular photo spot for fans of the franchise.
Team Nicerio visits Shintoku Station
On August 13, 2023, my family and I visited Shintoku Station
for the first time, marking my 650th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. While we don’t typically visit train stations unless we're catching
a train, this stop was special—we came specifically to see the Shintoku Pokémon
manhole cover.
As part of our Hokkaido179 journey, one of our goals is to visit
all 42 Pokémon manhole covers across Hokkaido, and this visit brought us one
step closer to achieving it.
Shintoku Station Admission Fee
It’s FREE to enter and explore Shintoku Station. If you’re
planning to check the price or avail of a train ticket/ area pass, you might
want to check out the updated prices in this LINK.
Shintoku Station Operating Hours
Shintoku Station is open from 5 AM until midnight.
Why visit Shintoku Station?
Shintoku Station is more than just a stop—it’s a gateway to
history and culture in Hokkaido. From its well-organized rail operations to its
ties to Japan's imperial and industrial past, the station offers a unique blend
of utility and nostalgia.
Be sure to explore the station’s surroundings and snap a
photo of the iconic Pokémon manhole cover during your journey. Shintoku Station
isn’t just a travel hub; it’s a destination in itself.
Getting to Shintoku Station
From Sapporo Station, board the Ozora - Ozora 7 Limited Express to the Kushiro train operated by the Hokkaido Railway Company. Board down at Shintoku Station.
Travel time: 1 hour and 51 minutes
Fare: 6,690 yen
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.jpg "Team Nicerio visits Shintoku Station")
.JPG "Team Nicerio visits Shintoku Station")
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