Location & Access
Hanuki Station (羽貫駅), identified by the station number NS12, is situated in Gakuen 1-chome, Ina, Kitaadachi District, Saitama Prefecture. This location places it within the Greater Tokyo Area, making it an accessible point for residents and visitors exploring the region. The station serves the local community of Ina, providing a crucial link to the wider transportation network.
Railway Lines
Hanuki Station is exclusively served by the Ina Line (伊奈線) of the New Shuttle (ニューシャトル). This 12.7-kilometer (7.9 mi) line is unique, operating as a manually driven rubber-tyred people mover system. It runs north from Ōmiya Station in Saitama, alongside the Tohoku Shinkansen and Joetsu Shinkansen elevated high-speed lines, through Ageo, and terminates at Uchijuku Station in Ina. The line is double-tracked from Ōmiya to Maruyama Station and single-tracked from Maruyama to Uchijuku, with Hanuki Station falling within the single-tracked section.
Station History
Hanuki Station, along with the entire Ina Line, commenced operations on December 22, 1983, making it over 40 years old. The New Shuttle system is operated by Saitama New Urban Transit Co., Ltd., a third-sector railway company with major shareholders including East Japan Railway Company, Tobu Railway, various banks, the Saitama prefectural government, and the cities and towns it serves. This collaborative ownership highlights its importance to regional infrastructure.
Travel Tips
When traveling to or from Hanuki Station, remember that the New Shuttle operates at a maximum speed of 60 km/h (35 mph) and uses conductor rails for electrification. Its unique rubber-tyred system offers a smooth and quiet ride. For up-to-date information on schedules and services, it's advisable to check the official Saitama New Urban Transit website at https://www.new-shuttle.jp/ before your journey.
