Shihoro Kotsu Park - Hokkaido

Shihoro Kotsu Park, also known as Shihoro Transportation Park (士幌交通公園), is a memorial park featuring the preserved site of the former Shihoro Station, along with sections of railway tracks and freight cars. It is located at Nishi 2 Sen-157, Shihoro, Kato District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Shihoro Kotsu Park

Shihoro Kotsu Park Details

Shihoro Kotsu Park, also known as Shihoro Transportation Park, is a memorial site dedicated to preserving the history of the former Shihoro Station and the Shihoro Line of the Japanese National Railways. The park retains the nostalgic charm of Japan’s railway era, showcasing original structures, tracks, and freight cars that once played a vital role in the region’s transport and agriculture.

Shihoro Kotsu Park - Shihoro town, Hokkaido Prefecture

Shihoro Station History

• December 10, 1925 (Taisho 14) – Shihoro Station opened as part of the Shihoro Line, connecting Obihiro Station to Shihoro. It was established as a general station and served as home to the Ikeda Locomotive Depot Shihoro Branch.

The former Shihoro Station is one of the main attractions in Shihoro Kotsu Park

• March 23, 1987 – With the full closure of the Shihoro Line, the station was officially shut down. At the time of its closure, the station featured two side platforms, two tracks, and several sidings. The station building stood on the west side, with private tracks extending to the Shihoro Agricultural Cooperative (JA Shihoro).

Former Shihoro Station Building

From Station to Memorial Park

After its closure, the site was transformed into Shihoro Kotsu Park, preserving key elements of the station’s heritage. Visitors today can see:

• The original station building
• Two-sided, two-track platforms
• Station signs from Shihoro Station and Naka-Shihoro Station
• A conductor’s van and preserved freight cars

Shihoro Kotsu Park's Preserved Freight Cars

The old destination guidance boards of Shihoro Station

The station building itself remains locked, but those interested in exploring the interior may contact Shihoro Town Hall (open weekdays, 9:00–16:00, closed on weekends and holidays).

Team Nicerio visits Shihoro Kotsu Park

My family and I visited the Shihoro Kotsu Park for the first time on November 3, 2023, marking the start of our three-day Culture Day Road Trip. Coincidentally, it was also my 732nd day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme, which made the experience even more meaningful. Located in the town of Shihoro, this historical site was a highlight for me as someone who deeply enjoys exploring places with rich heritage. In fact, my family and I have already visited most of the train-related destinations across Hokkaido, and this stop added another memorable chapter to our railway journeys.

Shihoro Kotsu Park Admission Fee

It’s FREE to enter and explore Shihoro Kotsu Park.

Shihoro Kotsu Park Operating Hours

The park grounds are open to visitors year-round, 24 hours a day. However, the station building itself remains closed to the public. Those who wish to view the interior must arrange access through Shihoro Town Hall, available on weekdays from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (closed on weekends and holidays).

Why Visit Shihoro Kotsu Park?

Shihoro Kotsu Park is more than just a railway site—it’s a window into the history of Hokkaido’s transportation and community life. Walking along the preserved tracks and platforms, you can imagine the days when trains carried people, goods, and agricultural products through this rural landscape.

For travelers seeking unique destinations in Hokkaido, especially those exploring the Tokachi region, this park offers a quiet yet fascinating glimpse into Japan’s railway legacy.

Getting to Shihoro Kotsu Park

 

From Obihiro Station, head out and go to Platform 6 of the Obihiro-eki Bus Terminal. Once there, board Bus #49 Kamishihoro Line (Kamishihoro (via Kino, Otofuke, and Shihoro)).

Get off at the Shihoro bus stop and walk for about 300 meters to Shihoro Kotsu Park.

Travel time: 56 minutes

Fare: 790 yen

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