An unexplored station closest to the sea on the Tsurumi Line : "Umi-Shibaura Station"

Hidden beneath a concrete overpass in Yokohama’s Tsurumi Ward lies Kokudō Station, one of Japan’s most mysterious and atmospheric train stations. Despite its eerie, almost forgotten look, this station is very much in use — a living relic of the past where time seems to stand still.

Glimpse into History

Opened in 1930, Kokudō Station was originally part of the Tsurumi Rinkō Railway and designed by famed civil engineer Mikishi Abe. Its arched concrete structure, lined with scratched brick tiles and weathered staircases, speaks to an era long gone. Beneath the elevated tracks once stood a bustling shopping arcade known as Rinkō Department Store — today, all that remains are faded signs and sealed shutters, whispering stories of old Japan.

Popular Filming Location

Thanks to its hauntingly nostalgic appearance, Kokudō Station has become a favorite backdrop for Japanese films and dramas. It’s been featured in classics like Akira Kurosawa’s “Stray Dog”, as well as in modern dramas such as Byakuyakō and Karei-naru Ichizoku. The station’s unique blend of urban decay and charm makes it an ideal setting for stories that dwell on memory, time, and mystery.

Bit Spooky at Night…

Visit after sunset, and Kokudō Station takes on a ghostly charm. The dim lights, echoing footsteps, and nearly empty platforms give it an otherworldly atmosphere — some visitors even describe it as stepping into a parallel universe. It’s not uncommon to feel a shiver down your spine as you walk through the shadowy underpass beneath the tracks.

Access Information

Location: Namamugi 5-chome, Tsurumi Ward, Yokohama
Line: JR Tsurumi Line
Closest Major Station: From JR Tsurumi Station, it’s just one stop (about 2 minutes)
Note: Kokudō Station is unmanned, but has IC card readers for easy access

Why You Should Visit

Kokudō Station is more than just a stop along a train line — it’s a place where past and present coexist, where urban legends come alive, and where photographers, train fans, and lovers of old Japan can find a hidden gem. If you’re exploring off-the-beaten-path Tokyo or Yokohama, this surreal station is well worth a quick visit — especially if you’re craving a taste of Japan’s forgotten corners.