Sanji Park - Hokkaido

Sanji Park (三治公園) is a small public park in Kitami City. It is located at 1 Chome-5-5 Minaminakamachi, Kitami City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Sanji Park

Sanji Park Details

Tucked within a residential area, Sanji Park may seem like an unassuming green space at first glance. Spanning just 810 square meters, the park lacks typical features like walking trails or play equipment. However, it holds a unique treasure that sets it apart: a rare D50-type steam locomotive on display.

Sanji Park - Kitami City, Hokkaido Prefecture

A Historic Locomotive on Display

The star attraction of Sanji Park is the D5025 steam locomotive, a piece of Japan’s rich railway history. This impressive machine was in operation from 1924 until its retirement in 1970, serving dual roles in transporting passengers and hauling coal. Despite being exhibited outdoors, the locomotive is remarkably well-preserved, offering visitors a chance to admire its robust engineering up close.

D5025 photos

The history of the D5205 Steam locomotive

The Legacy of the D50 Locomotive

The D50 series was introduced as a successor to the Taisho-era 9600 model. Initially planned as the 9900 series, it was eventually named the Degomaru. Today, only two D50 locomotives remain in Japan: one displayed at the Kyoto Railway Museum and the other proudly exhibited at Sanji Park.

Team Nicerio visits Sanji Park

On September 16, 2023, during the first day of our "3-Day Respect for the Aged Road Trip," my family and I visited Sanji Park for the first time. This marked my 684th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. Although there is nothing much to do in the park, I made sure to include it in our itinerary as it is home to one of the rare trains of Japan, making it a must-visit destination.

Sanji Park Admission Fee

It’s FREE to enter and explore Sanji Park.

Sanji Park Operating Hours

Sanji Park is open 24/7.

Why Visit Sanji Park?

For railway enthusiasts, history buffs, or those seeking a unique spot to explore, Sanji Park is a must-visit. Its compact size and quiet surroundings make it an ideal place to reflect on Japan’s industrial heritage. The rare D5025 locomotive not only offers a glimpse into the past but also stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of early 20th-century engineering.

Getting to Sanji Park 

 

Sanji Park is around 700 meters from Kitami Station. You can reach it on foot. 

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