On March 10, 2025, the Oigawa Railway, located in Shizuoka Prefecture, celebrated its 100th anniversary, marking a century of unique service and dedication to the community. Known for its scenic steam locomotive (SL) journeys through breathtaking nature, the railway has become not just a means of transportation, but also a beloved piece of local culture. Despite this milestone, the company faces significant financial hurdles, stemming from prolonged deficits and the impact of Typhoon No. 15, which caused serious disruptions to its operations.
During the anniversary, Ryo Torisawa, 64, the company president, voiced his commitment to keeping the SL running for future generations. "I want to pass on the SL as a symbol loved by people of all ages to the next generation," he stated. This sentiment reflects the affection locals and railway enthusiasts have developed over the years for the heritage steam trains.
The Oigawa Railway was established back in 1925, originally intended for the transportation of lumber and as part of the plan to construct hydroelectric power stations along the upper reaches of the Oigawa River. By 1927, two years after its founding, the railway began commercial operations, serving as one of the primary forms of transport for the local population. This role, though, diminished over the decades as freight and passenger numbers dwindled, prompting the railway to pivot to tourism-focused routes during the 1960s and 1970s.
Since the 1970s, the operation of SLs has become the backbone of the railway's service. Even as challenges have mounted, the iconic steam engines manufactured during the early Showa period are scheduled to run for more than 200 days this fiscal year. To meet repair demands, employees, who have inherited skills from former Japan National Railways (JNR) staff, often take it upon themselves to craft replacement parts when official manufacturing of specific components ceases.
Tragically, Typhoon No. 15 severely impacted operations; the heavy rains led to landslides and washed out sections of track. Notably, the stretch between Kawanemoto Onsen Sasama Station and Senzu Station, which spans 19.5 kilometers, currently remains closed, and there are no clear prospects for reopening. This setback has compounded the financial difficulties the railway faces, with the company having recorded losses for five consecutive terms.
Understanding the history and the struggles of the Oigawa Railway opens windows to the broader narrative of railways across Japan, particularly those with offerings rooted deeply in local landscapes and culture. While celebrating its history, the Oigawa Railway is also trying to reinvigorate its operations through innovative approaches to attract visitors. This 100-year milestone serves as both rejoicing and reflection.
Efforts are underway to bolster tourism and engage the community more intimately, providing experiences centered around the unique appeal of steam locomotion. Special events and promotional campaigns are being explored to draw attention back to the railway, as the unwelcome suspension of services highlights the urgent need for support from tourists and locals alike.
Looking forward, the Oigawa Railway stands as both a cultural icon and an enterprise striving to overcome financial adversity. The company’s defining ethos of preserving not just the mechanics of the SL but the stories and memories associated with it is central to its mission as it embarks on the next 100 years. Through such commitment to heritage and community, there remains hope for revitalization and renewal, underscoring the railway’s place within the heart of Shizuoka.