Kareigawa Station (嘉例川駅)

Flow of the course

About this spot

This JR Hisatsu Line station stands in a quiet mountain village, and its wooden station building, more than 120 years old, is among the oldest in Kagoshima Prefecture. Registered as a national Tangible Cultural Property, its waiting room with wooden benches and well-worn pillars carry visitors back to a nostalgic time. Though unstaffed, it's a popular station drawing railway enthusiasts and tourists from across the country, known also for its famous ekiben (train boxed lunch) packed with local ingredients, called Hyakunen no Tabi Monogatari Kareigawa (百年の旅物語 かれい川). Standing on the platform and gazing at the green mountains and the tracks stretching ahead, a heartfelt lingering feeling fitting for the end of a journey spreads through your chest. Close a day of black vinegar and good food, surrounded by the scent of wood.

Tips

The famous ekiben is sold on limited days and in limited quantities, so if you want to be sure to try it, it's reassuring to check sales information in advance. As this is a local line with few trains, visits are typically made by car, but be careful of approaching trains while on the platform. Roads around the station are narrow in places, so drive carefully.

Best time to visit

About 40 minutes. Evening, when the western sun tints the wooden station building an amber color, is full of charm

Access & map

〒899-5113 鹿児島県霧島市隼人町嘉例川