Shintoku Town SL Square - Hokkaido

Shintoku Town SL Square (新得町SL広場), also called SL Train Park (ＳＬ広場), is a public park in the town of Shintoku. It is located along National Route 38 in Hondorikita in the town of Shintoku, Kamikawa District in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Shintoku Town SL Square

Shintoku Town SL Square Details

Shintoku Town SL Square isn’t your ordinary public park. Located on the northern outskirts of Shintoku in Hokkaido, Japan, this serene park offers visitors a unique blend of history, railways, and outdoor activities. Nestled below the Shintokuyama Ski Resort and near the Sekisho Line railway tracks, the park provides a tranquil setting where you can occasionally catch sight of modern trains gliding by.

Shintoku Town SL Square - Shintoku town, Hokkaido Prefecture

The centerpiece of the park is the restored SL D5195, a testament to Japan’s rich railway history. Preserved with care, this historic steam train has remained in excellent condition, offering visitors an opportunity to admire its engineering marvels up close.

Welcome to Shintoku 

SL広場 Directional Signboard

The History of the D5195 Locomotive

The D5195 locomotive, built on March 29, 1938, by Nippon Sharyo, is part of the renowned D51 series, popularly known as “Degoichi.” Designed for both freight and passenger services, the D51 locomotives were celebrated for their reliability and power, making them an integral part of Japan’s rail history.

D5195 history board

This particular model began its service in 1965, operating primarily in Hokkaido’s cold and rugged environment. It was built to endure long hauls, boasting a high-pressure boiler, a fire grate area of 3.27 square meters, and the capacity to carry 7.4 tons of coal and 20 cubic meters of water. Measuring nearly 22 meters in length and weighing 78.6 tons when fully loaded, the D5195 was a formidable presence on the tracks.

SL D5195 Photos

Retired in 1971, the D5195 now rests at Shintoku Town SL Square as a preserved relic of Japan’s industrial heritage. Its intricate design and enduring strength make it a must-see for history buffs and railway enthusiasts alike.

Karachi Poppo Road: A Journey Through Nature

Adding to the charm of Shintoku Town SL Square is the Karachi Poppo Road, a scenic walking trail developed on the abandoned JNR Karikachi Line. The railway line, discontinued in 1966, has been transformed into a versatile path for walking, cycling, and even horseback riding.

Karachi Poppo Road Pictures

Karachi Poppo Road Map

You have to go under the Sekisho Line, and if you time your visit right, you'll see a train pass by

Information board about the former Karikachi Line

A segment of the Karachi Poppo Road

The trail is also a favorite among athletes, serving as a course for the “Karikachi Trail Running” event. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or an adventurous run, this trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, making it a perfect complement to your visit to the park.

Team Nicerio visits the Shintoku Town SL Square

On August 13, 2023, my family and I visited Shintoku Town SL Square for the first time, during my 650th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. It was one of our destinations in the town of Shintoku during our road trip, which is part of our ongoing journey to explore all 179 municipalities in Hokkaido.

We enjoyed walking around the park and taking photos of the D5195 Locomotive. I wanted to explore deeper into the park and try the Karachi Poppo Road, but due to time constraints, we just admired the preserved locomotive.

 

Shintoku Town SL Square Admission Fee

It’s FREE to enter and explore the Shintoku Town SL Square.

Shintoku Town SL Square Operating Hours

The Shintoku Town SL Square is open 24/7.

Why visit the Shintoku Town SL Square?

Shintoku Town SL Square offers a unique blend of history, nature, and outdoor activities, making it a must-visit destination in Hokkaido. The park’s highlight, the D5195 locomotive, provides an educational and nostalgic glimpse into Japan’s steam locomotive era, appealing to railway enthusiasts and history buffs alike. 

Conveniently located near the Sekisho Line, the park’s accessibility adds to its appeal, making it an excellent stop while exploring the Shintoku area. Whether you’re seeking a journey into the past or a serene outdoor escape, Shintoku Town SL Square has something for everyone.

Getting to Shintoku Town SL Square

 

Although the Sekisho Line passes by the SL Square, the nearest station to the Shintoku Town SL Square is Shintoku Station, which is about 1 kilometer away. 

There are no bus stops there, either, so the best way to reach it is on foot. 

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