Tokotoko Train Sotsukyo Onsen Station

An unfinished railway line that you can interact with. Planned and construction began on the Iwakuni Line, linking Iwakuni and Nippara. It was open up to Nishikicho Station, six kilometers before the station. The plan was to open the Northern Line from there to Nippara, but a tunnel was built to Muikaichi, and the plan was scrapped. Apparently, electric cars used at the Yamaguchi Kirara Expo are being reused and operated from Nishikicho to this station. Please Google it for more details. In any case, I think it's amazing that you can visit the foundations of this unfinished railway line directly and that it is still being used in any way. It's obvious that it wouldn't be viable if it had opened, given the current situation, but it's hard not to appreciate the aspirations of the planners and engineers at the time. When I visited, the Tocotoko was out of service due to a malfunction. The Kirara Expo ended quite some time ago, so I imagine the carriages are probably showing signs of wear. However, if they capitalize on the recent railway boom, this is a place that could have a shot. There's no one around, so even if you walk quietly to the tunnel, you won't be found. (Sorry if that gets you in trouble, but please proceed at your own risk.) Nishiki Palace is also on the opposite bank, and it's thrilling to know that your final destination for staying there is there. I highly recommend this place for anyone looking to do absolutely nothing!

The 40-minute trip on the Tokko Tokko Train, with its beautiful views of fresh greenery and clear streams, was a truly memorable experience. Along the way, the fluorescent stone paintings and tiny bats were soothing and surprising—a trip everyone from small children to adults can enjoy. ☺️ I recommend the seats at the very back, where you can get a full view of the entire train.❗ Also, during cherry blossom season, the train travels through a tunnel of cherry blossoms, which is a wonderful time to visit.👍️ It was full, so I recommend making a reservation. We arrived an hour early and had curry on the second floor of the station.❤️

Visited in Summer 2025 It appears to be occupying the site of a former railway line. I boarded the train at Nishikimachi Station and made the round trip. The projection mapping inside the tunnel and murals by local children were truly magical. There was time to get off the Tocotoco Train and explore the tunnel. Locals also waved welcome to the Tocotoco Train from the roadside. Next time, I'd definitely like to stop by the day spa.

This is the last stop of the Tocotoco Train. There is a gazebo and toilets. There is an old toilet in the front, but the one in the back is clean. SOZU Onsen, about a 5-minute walk from here, was very nice. The only way down is a very narrow, steep slope that only one person can pass through, so it is not suitable for people with strollers or weak legs. It was a lovely station with a very local feel!

The unfinished track section still has a long way to go. But this is probably the limit of how much longer I can continue riding the rattling train. It's also a convenient location with some tourist spots nearby.