The former Taishi Station, a charming station building with a Showa-retro atmosphere, is a must-see. The museum displays photographs and documents from its heyday, allowing visitors to imagine the bustling activity of the iron ore transportation era.
Historic Sites
Highlights
Showa-retro atmosphere station building
View historical photos and documents at the museum
Car: Approximately 40 minutes from the Shibukawa-Ikaho IC on the Kan-etsu Expressway.
Bus: Get off at the Kyū Taishi Station stop on the Nakanojō-machi municipal bus from Naganohara-Kusatsu-guchi Station on the JR Agatsuma Line. Show route
Op.Hours
10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Cld.Days
Tuesdays to Fridays from December to March (open on holidays), December 29th to January 3rd
Fee
¥200 for adults (free for Nakanojo town residents and those under 13 years old)
INFO
Due to aging, some areas are closed to the public. Please follow the instructions of the staff during your visit.
Kyū Taishi Station, located in Nakanojō-machi, Gunma Prefecture, was a private station opened in 1951 to transport iron ore mined from Gunma Tetsusan, once Japan's largest iron mine. The ore was shipped to steel mills in Tokyo, Yokohama, and other areas. Kyū Taishi Station played a vital role in transporting the ore from Gunma Tetsusan to Naganohara Station.
From 1961, passenger transport also commenced, making it an important transportation hub in the region. However, with the closure of Gunma Tetsusan in 1971, the line was abandoned. Today, the station building, retaining its original appearance, is open to the public as a museum.
The museum exhibits photographs and documents from that time, allowing visitors to experience the bustling atmosphere of the iron ore transportation era. Next to the station building, a freight car is preserved, offering a glimpse into the past. Kyū Taishi Station offers not only a historical experience but also a beautiful natural setting. Popular tourist spots like Kusatsu Onsen and Shima Onsen are nearby, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.
When visiting Kyū Taishi Station, consider exploring nearby attractions. In Kusatsu Onsen, you can stroll through the onsen town and enjoy the hot springs. Shima Onsen offers a relaxing stay at a traditional Ryokan (Japanese Inn) surrounded by stunning nature. Kyū Taishi Station is a unique Gunma Prefecture tourist spot where you can enjoy history and nature. Be sure to visit!