Former Aikoku Station - Hokkaido

Former Aikoku Station (愛国駅跡) is a renovated railway museum housed in the former station building. It features train memorabilia and a preserved steam locomotive. The site is located at Kisen-39-40 Aikokucho, Obihiro, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Former Aikoku Station

Former Aikoku Station Details

The Former Aikoku Station in Obihiro, Hokkaido, is more than just a renovated railway museum—it is a symbol of nostalgia, romance, and history. Together with the famous Koufuku Station (幸福駅, “Happiness Station”), it sparked a nationwide travel boom in the 1970s thanks to the catchphrase: “From the Land of Love to Happiness”. Even today, visitors come here to experience a piece of railway history and to celebrate the heartwarming message of love and happiness.

Former Aikoku Station - Obihiro City, Hokkaido Prefecture

History of Aikoku Station

• November 2, 1929 (Showa 4): Opened as part of the Japanese National Railways Hiroo Line between Obihiro Station and Nakasatsunai Station.
• December 15, 1974: Cargo and luggage handling were discontinued, and the station became unmanned.
• August 1, 1979 (Showa 54): The station building was renovated, and 45,000 commemorative tickets were sold, fueling the popularity of the “Love and Happiness” travel boom.
• February 2, 1987: The Hiroo Line was officially closed, ending Aikoku Station’s role as an active railway stop.

Former Aikoku Station

Inside the Former Aikoku Station*

* I posted only a handful of photos of the exhibits, and I purposely didn't label them so that you would only get a glimpse of what the Former Aikoku Station has to offer. Please visit it and enjoy it with your own eyes.

Today, the preserved station serves as a railway museum, showcasing train memorabilia and a steam locomotive that stands as a monument to Hokkaido’s golden railway era.

Preserved SL 19671

Origin of the Name

The name Aikoku (愛国) translates to “Love of Country” or “Patriotism.” It came from the Patriotic Youth Group, an organization that helped develop the surrounding area. When paired with the neighboring Koufuku (“Happiness”) Station, the romantic phrase “From the Land of Love to Happiness” became a cultural phenomenon in Japan.

Former Aikoku Station Grounds

Lover's Sanctuary

Stone monument of a train ticket at the former Aikoku Station

Heart-shaped fountain

History of Aikoku Station and JNR Hiroo Line.

Aikoku Signboard

The rusted remains of what looks like a train's coach

There's a playground in the station grounds

There's a gazebo in the park behind the station

Visiting Former Aikoku Station Today

The station building has been carefully preserved and renovated into a charming railway museum. Inside, you’ll find displays of railway memorabilia, historical photographs, and artifacts from the Hiroo Line. Outside, a preserved steam locomotive adds to the nostalgic atmosphere and is a favorite photo spot for visitors.

Former Aikoku Station

Together with Koufuku Station, Aikoku Station remains a must-visit attraction in Obihiro for travelers interested in Japanese railway history, local culture, or simply looking for a romantic and meaningful destination.

Team Nicerio visits the Former Aikoku Station

My family and I visited the Former Aikoku Station for the first time on November 4, 2023, the second day of our three-day Culture Day Road Trip. The visit also marked my 733rd day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme, which made the experience even more meaningful. It was our first stop of the day, and as a big fan of trains, I made sure to include it in our itinerary. While I had also planned to visit Koufuku Station, it was already out of the way, so we had to skip it. Nevertheless, we truly enjoyed exploring the grounds of the Former Aikoku Station.

Former Aikoku Station Admission Fees

It’s FREE to enter and explore the Former Aikoku Station grounds.

Former Aikoku Station Operating Hours

Open Year-Round: Daily from March to November (9:00–17:00) and Sundays only from December to February (9:00–17:00). 

Please note: The steam locomotive is not on display during winter (December to March). It is usually covered with tarp.

Why visit Aikoku Station?

Former Aikoku Station is a must-visit destination for history buffs, railway enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a touch of nostalgia. This historic station, once part of the Hiroo Line, allows visitors to step back in time and explore Hokkaido’s rich railway heritage. Together with Koufuku Station, it is famous for the phrase “From the Land of Love to Happiness,” making it a charming spot for couples and anyone interested in unique Japanese cultural stories.

The station has been preserved as a small museum, featuring vintage train memorabilia, historical photographs, and a beautifully maintained steam locomotive. Its nostalgic station building, garden, and iconic signage also make it a great place for photography. With open grounds and interactive exhibits, Former Aikoku Station is enjoyable for families and visitors of all ages, offering a serene atmosphere and a meaningful connection to Hokkaido’s past.

Getting to Aikoku Station

 

From Obihiro Station, head out and go to Platform 11 of the Obihiro Station Bus Terminal. Board Bus #60 (Hiroo Line) operated by the Tokachi Bus Company.

Board down at the Aikoku bus stop. Once there, walk to the Former Aikoku Station. 

Travel time: 36 minutes

Fare: 550 yen

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