In this guide
Former Matsumae Station Remains (Matsumae-eki Ato)
Former Matsumae Station is the site of a JR Matsumae Line station in the Hakata area of Matsumae Town. It was formerly JR Matsumae Station, which was abolished in February 1988. At the time, the station stood on the west side of Matsumae Castle.
Most of the station buildings and railway tracks have been removed and the area has become vacant lots. However, several features remain as they were:
- The stone monument reading “Matsumae Station, the southernmost town in Hokkaido,” built in 1978 in hopes of developing Matsumae tourism
- The former Kanko Information Center (tourist information center)
- The tourist information map
Until the early 2000s, the shop in front of the station still existed. The three inns scattered around the station are still in operation.
Cherry Blossom Season at Former Matsumae Station Remains
Part of the former rail line has been maintained as a road, and in the section near the old Matsumae Station site, cherry trees bloom at their peak in early May. If you’re interested in the history of the Matsumae Line, it is worth visiting at least once.
General Information
- Address: Hakata, Matsumae, Matsumae District, Hokkaido 049-1505, Japan
- Opening hours: 24 hours
- Cherry blossom period: Late April to early May
Ease of Access
- By bus from Kikonai Station: approx. 95 minutes, 1,300 yen one way; one bus every 1–2 hours
- Direct buses between Hakodate Station and Matsumae: 3 hours, 2,100 yen one way
Attractions Nearby
- Matsumae Castle: 720 m
- Road Station Kitamae Ship Matsumae: 520 m
- Matsumae Park: 660 m
