Location & Access
Surisawa Station is situated in Ichinoseki, a city within Iwate Prefecture, Japan. Operated by the East Japan Railway Company (JR East), it serves as a vital transportation hub for the local community. The station is staffed and features a Midori no Madoguchi (ticket office), making it convenient for travelers to purchase tickets and receive assistance.
Railway Lines
The station is an integral part of the Ōfunato Line, connecting passengers to various destinations. It is located 30.6 km from Ichinoseki, with Shibajuku being the preceding station towards Ichinoseki and Senmaya the following station towards Kesennuma. The Ōfunato Line is known for a significant detour through Surisawa, a route often cited as a prime example of "Watakushi-tetsudō" (railway built for personal gain), due to political pressure from the Seiyūkai party.
Station History
Surisawa Station officially opened on July 26, 1925. Interestingly, it served as a terminal station until July 15, 1927. In front of the station, busts of the Sato father and son (Hidezo and Ryohei) stand, commemorating their role in the controversial routing of the railway line through Surisawa.
Travel Tips
With an annual ridership of 241 in FY2018, Surisawa Station offers a glimpse into local Japanese life. While not a major tourist destination itself, its unique history provides an interesting anecdote for railway enthusiasts. Travelers can use the station as a gateway to explore the scenic beauty and cultural attractions of Ichinoseki and the wider Iwate Prefecture.
