Location & Access
Yugawara Station (ゆがわら駅) is conveniently situated in Miyashita, Yugawara Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture. As a staffed station with a "Midori no Madoguchi" (ticket office), it offers essential services for travelers. The station also features a bus terminal, providing seamless connections to local attractions and the wider Yugawara area, famous for its hot springs and natural beauty.
Railway Lines
The station is a key stop on the JR East Tōkaidō Line, identified by the station code JT20. It is located 99.1 km from Tokyo, making it an accessible gateway to the region. Yugawara Station serves as a crucial link for both local commuters and tourists heading to the hot spring resorts. Limited express services like the Saphir Odoriko and Odoriko also stop here, offering direct connections to destinations like Atami, Itō, Odawara, Tokyo, and Shinjuku.
Station History
Yugawara Station officially opened its doors on October 1, 1924, making it over a century old. The station building and its plaza were designed by the renowned architect Kengo Kuma, adding a touch of modern architectural flair to this historic transportation hub. In FY2019, the station served an average of 5,833 daily passengers, highlighting its importance to the local community and tourism.
Travel Tips
When visiting Yugawara, make sure to explore the town's famous onsen (hot springs) and scenic walking trails. The bus terminal at the station provides easy access to many of these attractions. For those traveling from Tokyo, the Tōkaidō Line offers a direct and comfortable journey. Consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass if you plan extensive travel throughout Japan, as it can offer significant savings.