Location & Access
Chiwa Station (知和駅, Chiwa-eki) is nestled in the city of Tsuyama, within Okayama Prefecture, Japan. This unstaffed station is conveniently located at 35°11′33.83″N 134°4′37.60″E. While primarily serving local residents, it offers connections to a bus stop, providing additional access to the surrounding area. Its tranquil setting makes it a charming entry point to explore the region.
Railway Lines
Operated by the West Japan Railway Company (JR West), Chiwa Station is a key stop on the Inbi Line. It is situated 52.0 km (32.3 miles) from Tottori, making it an important link for travelers traversing this route. The station features one side platform, catering to the local train services.
Station History
Chiwa Station first opened its doors to passengers on September 12, 1931, making it a station with a rich history spanning over 90 years. Notably, until March 13, 2020, there were no morning trains stopping at Chiwa Station bound for Chizu, as all northbound morning services were rapid trains that bypassed the station. The first train towards Chizu would only depart at 12:09 PM as of March 2019. This situation was rectified with the timetable revision on March 14, 2020, when one morning rapid train was reclassified as a local train, ensuring morning service for passengers.
Travel Tips
As an unstaffed station, travelers should be prepared to purchase tickets in advance or on board. With an average of 6 daily passengers in FY2019, Chiwa Station offers a quiet and authentic Japanese railway experience. Its historical operational adjustments highlight its evolution to better serve the local community.
