Yonabaru Station, Railway heritage site in Ōzato, Japan
Yonabaru Station is a former railway facility in Ōzato, Japan, with a building that preserves nine concrete pillars that survived wartime destruction and remain as structural elements of the site. It now houses a museum displaying historical rails, photographs, and infrastructure items that document the development of transportation systems in Okinawa Prefecture.
The station opened for service on January 20, 1915, and ceased operations in March 1945 during the final months of World War II. The surviving concrete pillars demonstrate how parts of the infrastructure endured despite extensive destruction in the region.
The station museum displays a miniature model of the original railway complex, created with input from former passengers who traveled regularly on this line. Through this exhibit, visitors can understand how central rail transport was to the community's daily life.
The site is straightforward to explore during museum hours and features paths to view the preserved structures and surrounding remains. Visitors should note that some areas are uneven and there is limited shade on the grounds.
Emperor Showa traveled on this railway line during his visit to the region, bringing significant public attention to the route. For many older residents in the area, this remains a memorable moment connected to the station's prominence.
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