Yume no Tsuribashi
An iconic suspension bridge with breathtaking views, spanning across an emerald lake in Sumatakyo Gorge.
What is Okuoikojo Station?
Okuoikojo Station Okuoikojo Station is an unstaffed station on the Oikawa Railway Ikawa Line (also known as the Minami Alps Abt Line) located in Kawanehon Town, Shizuoka Prefecture. It is situated on a small peninsula that juts into Lake Sesso, a reservoir formed by the construction of the Nagashima Dam. True to its name, the station seems to float on the water, making it a highly popular sightseeing destination.
The most defining feature of the station is its striking view: a tiny platform sitting squarely in the middle of an emerald-green lake surrounded by mountain ridges. Having won the “Cool Japan Award 2019,” this secluded spot has seen a recent surge in popularity and is now recognized alongside the “Dream Suspension Bridge of Sumatakyo” as one of the region’s top landmarks. Red iron bridges called the Okuoi Rainbow Bridge span the water from both sides of the station, framing the bright red trains that capture the hearts of visitors.
Highlights of Okuoikojo Station
The absolute main highlight is the view from the clifftop observation point overlooking the station. From the platform, you can follow a walking trail alongside the tracks and then climb up a mountain path for about 10 minutes to reach the viewpoint. This spot offers a panoramic view of the isolated station and the Rainbow Bridge stretching across the water. If you time your visit with a passing train, you can capture a picture-perfect photograph.
Another charming aspect of the station is its romantic folklore. The platform features an area dedicated to “Koijo” (love padlocks), playing on the Japanese words for “lake,” “love,” and “lock.” These heart-shaped locks can be purchased at Oigawa Railway station shops. Known as a place to vow eternal love, the station has even hosted weddings in the past. Behind the platform sits a log-cabin style rest area open to anyone, where the Kojo Station Cafe operates primarily on weekends, allowing you to relax with a drink while looking down at the tracks.
The log-cabin style rest area behind the platform is completely free to use!
How to Enjoy Your Visit
The station can be accessed either by train or by car. To fully experience the journey of a secluded mountain railway, take a ride on the Ikawa Line. The section between Nagashima Dam Station and Abt Ichishiro Station features the steepest railway incline in Japan. To climb it, the train uses the country’s only operational Abt system, which engages a gear on the locomotive with a rack rail built into the tracks. Conductors provide announcements about the highlights along the route, helping you learn about the Okuoi area while you enjoy the scenery.
For those who want to see the best views efficiently, a route that combines different transportation methods for the journey to and from the station is highly recommended. Take the Kanzou Line local bus from Senzu Station to the Kojo Ireguchi bus stop (about 23 minutes), which leaves you just a 2-minute walk from the main viewpoint. This allows you to see the famous panoramic view immediately upon arrival. From there, you can walk down to Okuoikojo Station in about 12 minutes. After exploring the station, you can catch the Abt-system train for a relaxing 1-hour ride back to Senzu Station.
Stopping by the Kojo Station Cafe is another highlight. The menu features unique items like the “Blue Kojo Curry,” inspired by the color of the lake, and the Yuzu Keema Curry, made with locally grown Kawane yuzu. If you have the physical energy, the 1-hour walking trail from this station to the neighboring Sessokyo-Onsen Station is also a popular route.
Basic Information
Name: Okuoikojo Station
Operating Hours: No specific hours for the station itself. (Kojo Station Cafe is open Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays, and holidays; closes during winter and for irregular maintenance).
Closed: Open daily (Cafe schedule is listed above).
Price: Free to visit and enter the station. Train fares apply if riding the railway.
Parking: Available (Approx. 20 spaces / Free).
Access
Address: Umeji, Kawanehon Town, Haibara District, Shizuoka Prefecture
Access:
Public Transport: Approx. 70 minutes from Senzu Station via the Oigawa Railway Minami Alps Abt Line. Alternatively, take the Kanzou Line local bus from Senzu Station to the “Kojo Ireguchi” bus stop (approx. 23 mins), followed by a 2-minute walk to the viewpoint.
By Car: Approx. 20–30 minutes from Senzu Station via Prefectural Route 388 (reaching the station and viewpoint from the parking lot requires walking and climbing stairs).
Nearby Ryokan
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