Location & Access
Sugaya Station is situated in Tamura City, Fukushima Prefecture, specifically in Takinecho Sugaya Aza Doden. This location places it within a scenic, elevated area of Fukushima. While the station itself is staffed, its remote setting suggests that access might be primarily by train, with limited local transportation options immediately available. Travelers should check local bus schedules or consider private transport for onward journeys from the station.
Railway Lines
The station is exclusively served by the Ban'etsu East Line, operated by East Japan Railway Company (JR East). It is located 49.9 km from Iwaki, serving as a crucial point on this route. Notably, Sugaya Station holds the distinction of being the highest elevation station on the entire Ban'etsu East Line, standing at 463.2 meters above sea level. The preceding station is Ōgoe (towards Kōriyama) and the following station is Kanmata (towards Iwaki).
Station History
Sugaya Station officially opened its doors to passengers on October 10, 1948. For over seven decades, it has served the local community and travelers traversing the Ban'etsu East Line. Despite its long history, the station maintains a staffed status, indicating its continued importance to JR East's operations. In fiscal year 2018, the station recorded an average of 69 daily passengers.
Travel Tips
Given its elevated position and potentially rural surroundings, visitors to Sugaya Station should be prepared for a quieter experience. It's an ideal spot for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Fukushima Prefecture. Travelers are advised to check train schedules in advance, especially for return journeys, as services on regional lines might be less frequent. For those interested in railway trivia, the station's status as the highest on the Ban'etsu East Line makes it a unique point of interest.
