Former Horomuka Station (旧幌向駅逓所) is one of the National Tangible Cultural Properties of Hokkaido. It is located at 3-3-19 Motomachi in the town of Namporo in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.
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| Former Horomuka Station |
Former Horomuka Station details
Originally established in 1901 by Yozo Matsuda, the Former Horomuka Station had a specific purpose: to facilitate the convenient transportation of cargo using passenger accommodation horses. Its creation and operation greatly contributed to the development of culture in an area that previously suffered from the challenges of poor transportation. It stands as a testament to the progress and advancement made during that period, leaving behind a legacy of historical significance. It was then repurposed and reconstructed as a station in the 1920s.
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| Former Horomuka Station - Nanporo town, Hokkaido Prefecture |
The Former Horomuka Station, designated as a nationally registered tangible cultural property in September 2006, has a rich history that dates back to its construction in March 1920. Originally, it served as a bustling hub for government officials and merchants, catering to around 550 guests annually. However, despite the initial success, it unfortunately fell into abandonment after just a decade of use.
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| Former Horomuka Station facade |
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| The nameplate "Matsuda" (松田) can be seen posted outside the station |
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| Registered Tangible Cultural Property (登録有形文化財) |
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| Former Horomuka Station as seen from across the street |
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| Route 337 Canal Station Road (運河·駅透ロード) |
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| Horomuka Village Station Ruins (幌向村駅逓所跡) |
This historic station is a charming, one-story wooden building with a distinct gabled roof that faces east, offering a picturesque view of National Route 337. The entrance, adorned with a gable roof, adds to the unique exterior appeal. Connected to the north is a gabled annex building, with clapboard walls that contribute to its architectural beauty. A hallway, flanked by two generously sized guest rooms with floor plans of approximately 10 tatami mats each, leads to the bathroom located in the annex building. This layout and design make the Former Horomuka Station a valuable remnant of the transportation infrastructure of the pioneering era. Sadly, visitors won't be able to see these as the station is indefinitely locked.
Team Nicerio visits the Former Horomuka Station
My family and I had the opportunity to visit the Former Horomuka Station for the first time last October 8, 2022, during our “October 8-10” Road Trip. It was my 341st day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme, and it was included in our itinerary as it is one of the important cultural properties of Japan. I would have loved to know more about it but visitors aren’t allowed to go in the establishment. Regardless, seeing it from the outside gave us a glimpse of the Showa period through its architecture. Hopefully, someday, the local government will open it up to the public.
Former Horomuka Station Entrance Fees
You won't be able to go inside the Former Horomuka Station. However, it’s FREE to take photos of its façade.
Former Horomuka Station Operation Hours
The Former Horomuka Station is permanently closed to the public. You may visit it and take photos of its façade anytime.
Why visit the Former Horomuka Station?
Although there is not much to see or do at the Former Horomuka Station, it’s a place to visit if you are into old buildings with historical significance.
Getting to the Former Horomuka Station
Embark from the Sapporo Eki Mae bus stop and take the Sapporo - Kuriyama (札幌～栗山) Kuriyama Eki bus operated by the Chuo Bus Company. Alight at the Choritsu Byoin mae (Namporo town) bus stop. Subsequently, take a brief 4-minute walk to reach the Former Horomuka Station.
Travel time: 52 minutes
Fare: 1,010 yen
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