In a nostalgic journey through Japan's public transportation history, the author revisits the Meitetsu Seto Line, which serves as a reminder of the unique blend of utility and tradition. In the late 1980s, the author joined Kyodo News and began their career at the Nagoya branch, where they were introduced to the Seto Line, a connection that would lead to a deeper appreciation of the region's ceramic industry.
The author's first impressions upon arriving in Nagoya in 1989 were influenced by the local cuisine and rapid transport. After savoring the region's famous kishimen, a flat noodle dish, the author made their way to Owari Seto, the terminal station of the Seto Line. This journey, taking about 30 minutes, was not just a commute; it marked the beginning of many explorations of the area.
Five minutes from the station lies the Seto-Gura Museum, an institution dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Seto's rich history in ceramics. Here, visitors encounter the Meitetsu Mo754 model, a vintage train that ran on the Seto Line from 1965 until the late 1970s. This particular train, manufactured in 1928, offers a glimpse into the transportation of an earlier era. According to museum materials, the Seto Line opened in 1905 and was electrified by 1907, adopting the affectionate nickname “Setoden.” The Mo754 served as a vital link for commuters and goods alike, shaping the economic landscape of both Seto City and its surroundings.
The author notes how the Mo754 was part of the line before it transitioned in 1978, hosted under the moniker “The Mo754 electric train.” The charm of the half-steel, wooden interior, illuminated by warm incandescent lights, provides a sense of warmth and nostalgia for those who remember a time before technology took over. With simple control equipment and rounded hand grips, this vintage train embodies a simpler, yet beloved transportation era.
Historically, the Seto Line was also known for its unique route through Nagoya Castle's moat, adding to its allure. This route formed an integral part of the transportation network connecting local pottery manufacturers with the port of Nagoya. The Seto Electric Railway, the forerunner of the Meitetsu Seto Line, transported ceramics via the Hori River Canal, furthering the local economy.
The nostalgia surrounding the Mo754 is not without its challenges. As the line upgraded in 1978, it switched the power supply from 600 volts to 1500 volts, which rendered the Mo754 obsolete. This train was subsequently reassigned to the Ibi and Taki lines in Gifu Prefecture until they both ceased operations by 2005. However, the retro train didn't fade into oblivion; instead, it found a new life. Transferred to the city of Seto, a revival project restored its former green paint and manual doors, preserving part of the local heritage.
The author reminisces about the importance of documenting history and the artisanal processes of local potters, many of whom relied on the Seto Line to transport their products. As the author delved into industry coverage during their reporting days, visits to local ceramic manufacturers in Seto and neighboring Mizunami proved invaluable for understanding the cultural significance of pottery.
Visiting the Seto-Gura Museum evokes memories from a bygone era. The collection of artifacts, photographs, and the presence of the Mo754 train echo stories of the vibrant community that flourished in connection with the rail line. The memories captured in 8-mm films by enthusiasts of the old Seto Line are resurfacing online, offering a glimpse into the trains of yesteryear.
The Substantial Changes to the Seto Line Reflect Broader Trends in Transportation. In its lifetime, the line has continually adapted to modern needs. The author emphasizes how transport plays a critical role in connecting communities, invigorating local culture and economy amid the technological advancements of recent decades.
In recent months, in late January 2025, the author set off for a trip back to Owari Seto after a lecture planned at a Nagoya university was unexpectedly canceled. While initially hesitant about the change in plans, the journey to this historic site served as a significant opportunity to connect with memories long cherished. Such reflections remind us of the interconnectedness of history, community, and the transformative power of transportation.
The Seto Line and its history remind us of our roots, urging us to appreciate the nuances and innovations in the world of public transportation while recognizing the cultural significance that shapes our communities.
