Tour Izumo by Ichibata Electric Railway / Sanin Main Line! Discover the Attractions and Sightseeing Spots Along the Route

Have you heard of the Ichibata Electric Railway / Sanin Main Line connecting Izumo and Matsue? Not only does this local railway support the daily lives of residents, but it also serves as a transport route to popular attractions like Matsue Castle and Izumo Taisha. Its retro exterior is also a hit among train enthusiasts. From aboard the Ichibata train, you can enjoy leisurely views of the countryside and the seasonal scenery along Anamichi Lake—the seventh largest lake in Japan. In this article, we introduce the charm and sightseeing spots along the much-loved Ichibata Electric Railway / Sanin Main Line.

What Is the Ichibata Electric Railway / Sanin Main Line?

Founded in 1912 (Meiji 45), Ichibata Electric Railway is a historic railway company. Originally established to transport pilgrims to Ichibata Yakushi, it played a vital role as a transportation means from Izumo.

The railway is famous nationwide for its “switchback” operations at Ichibata-guchi Station. At that time, a single 3.3 km line was laid from Ichibata-guchi (present-day) to Ichibata Yakushi. However, following directives during World War II to suspend unneeded lines, the service was halted. Later, with the construction of new military routes, the line was segmented and the switchback system was adopted.

Today, this unique operation has become one of the line’s major attractions for railway fans.

Unique Exterior! Izumo Taisha-mae Station

Izumo Taisha-mae Station is the final stop on the Ichibata line. Opened in 1930 under the name “Taisha Shinmon,” it was renamed “Izumo Taisha-mae” in 1970. The station’s exterior is very unique—a concrete building with a semi-circular dome roof resembling a kamaboko (fish cake) is built on the platform.

Over the entrance, a bell-shaped ornament is set, and colorful stained glass fills the windows, casting beautiful light into the waiting room that resembles a church interior. In contrast to the traditional Japanese-style “Old JNR Taisha Station,” Izumo Taisha-mae Station is built in modern Western style and was designated as a registered tangible cultural property by the national government in 1996.

In addition, on the track side, you can view one of Japan’s oldest vehicles—the “Dehani50 type No.52”—with free access to its interior and driving cab.

Filming Locations of the Movie “RAILWAYS”

Have you seen the hit movie RAILWAYS: The Story of a Man Who Became a Train Driver at 49 set in Shimane Prefecture? This film was shot along the Ichibata Electric Railway route, with several stations featured as key locations:

・Anamichi Lake
・Inonada Station
・Ichibata-guchi Station
・Nunobiki Station
・Unshu Hirata Station
・Kawato Station
・Izumo Taisha-mae Station

The scenery from the train window along Anamichi Lake—which is featured in the “One Hundred Best Sunsets of Japan”—is breathtaking. At Inonada Station, cherry blossoms in spring delight visitors. The station near the home of the film’s protagonist, Hajime Tsutsui, still displays a panel introducing the movie in its waiting room.

At Nunobiki Station, you can see the power supply facility for Ichibata Electric Railway, and Unshu Hirata Station appears in many scenes, even featured on the film’s promotional poster.

The entire route served as the film’s setting, so why not tour these locations and relive the nostalgic scenery?

Experience Driving a Train!

Have you ever dreamed of driving a train?

At Unshu Hirata Station, you can experience being behind the controls yourself!

The driving experience is divided into a one-day course, an evening course, and a master course. Participants first receive a briefing on how to operate the train, then they tour the rarely accessible vehicle depot with its unique displays of various trains.

Finally, you get to experience driving for yourself—taking the controls of the “Dehani N50 type No.53,” one of Japan’s oldest vehicles, along a dedicated course within the station area.

This hands-on experience is designed to be simple enough for everyone—from children to the elderly. Even if you’re not a railway enthusiast, it’s a dream come true.
(*Operating hours are as of November 15, 2019.)

Get Your Hands on Ichibata Electric Railway Merchandise!

Are you intrigued by retro Ichibata merchandise?

There are two main Ichibata merchandise shops: the Y Shop at Matsue Shinji Onsen and the Izumo Taisha-mae Station shop. Merchandise is also available at various events.

The product range includes charming retro illustrations on items such as the picture book “Bataden Kune Kune Suru,” towels, can badges, jigsaw puzzles featuring torii gates and the 7000 series, designs with rice ears and the 5000 series, as well as keychains and calendars.

Over the years, many types of goods have been sold—even vintage items sometimes appear on auction sites. If you get the chance to ride the Ichibata train, why not pick up a souvenir?

Tourist Spots Along the Line

Enjoy the nostalgic ride on a retro train while exploring sightseeing spots along the route. Several tourist attractions are accessible along the Ichibata line, so consider getting off at various stops to fully enjoy your Izumo adventure.

Shinjiko Green Park

Located at the new station of Lake-Arena, Shinjiko Green Park is a natural park perfect for relaxing in nature. Besides its wide open spaces, the park features unique facilities such as a bird-watching shed and a penguin museum—ideal for families and couples alike. Seasonal events are also held here.

Matsue Shinji Onsen

You can also use the Ichibata Electric Railway to reach the hot spring area of Matsue Shinji Onsen along Lake Shinji. The station features a public foot bath where you can relax and relieve travel fatigue as soon as you arrive. Afterward, you might visit the National Treasure Matsue Castle, stroll through the hot spring town, or admire the stunning sunset over Lake Shinji. Enjoy a leisurely journey aboard the retro Ichibata train—it promises a memorable experience.

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Tour Izumo by Ichibata Electric Railway / Sanin Main Line! Discover the Attractions and Sightseeing Spots Along the Route