Location & Access
Shigetō Station (D35) is situated in Tosayamadachō-Shigetō, Kami, Kōchi Prefecture, Japan. It holds the distinction of being the highest elevation station within the entire JR Shikoku network, standing at 347 meters above sea level. From this point, the railway line descends sharply towards Kōchi. The station is unstaffed, and access to the island platform requires using an overhead footbridge, making it not accessible for all.
Railway Lines
The station is served by the JR Shikoku Dosan Line, connecting it to various destinations. It is located 97.6 kilometers from the starting point of the Dosan Line at Tadotsu. The station features one side platform and one island platform, with a total of three tracks plus one siding, facilitating train movements along this scenic route.
Station History
Shigetō Station first opened its doors on June 21, 1930. Interestingly, it was known by a different name, Amatsubo, until 1963, when it adopted its current designation. Despite its remote location and unstaffed status, it served approximately 10 passengers daily in fiscal year 2019, highlighting its role as a vital link for the local community.
Travel Tips
For travelers exploring Kōchi Prefecture, Shigetō Station offers a unique perspective on the region's mountainous terrain. While the station itself has limited facilities due to its unstaffed nature, the journey to and from Shigetō provides breathtaking views, especially as the train descends towards Kōchi. Visitors should plan their journey accordingly, as accessibility features are limited.