Location & Access
Hottoyuda Station is situated in the town of Nishiwaga, within Iwate Prefecture, Japan. This station serves as a key access point for the local community and visitors exploring the scenic region. Uniquely, the station building is integrated with a bathing facility called "Hotto Yuda," offering travelers a relaxing experience right upon arrival or before departure.
Railway Lines
The station is operated by East Japan Railway Company (JR East) and is a stop on the Kitakami Line. It is located 35.2 kilometers from the starting point of the line at Kitakami Station. Travelers can connect to Yudakōgen towards Yokote or Yudakinshūko towards Kitakami. The station features one side platform and one island platform, with a total of three tracks, and is staffed with a Midori no Madoguchi (ticket office).
Station History
Hottoyuda Station first opened its doors on December 16, 1922, under the name Rikuchū-Kawajiri Station. It served the area under this name for many decades before being rebranded to Hottoyuda Station in 1991. This change likely coincided with the development or increased prominence of the adjacent bathing facilities, making the station itself a destination.
Travel Tips
For visitors to Hottoyuda Station, the main attraction is undoubtedly the integrated bathing facility. Consider planning your train journey with enough time to enjoy a relaxing soak in the hot springs. The station's unique amenity makes it more than just a transit point, offering a memorable and rejuvenating stop in your travels through Iwate Prefecture.
