The Beginning of a Charming Journey on the Oigawa Railway SL Ride
Surrounded by the rich nature of Shizuoka Prefecture, the Oigawa Railway is a special line known for its steam locomotives (SL). I decided to make this trip because a friend told me a few years ago that I would be able to “experience it as if I had stepped back in time. When I actually visited, I was even more impressed than those words. I checked the operation schedule on the official website of Oigawa Railway (Oigawa Railway Official Website), made reservations in advance, and set off. Running through the mountainous region of Shizuoka, the railroad offers an upscale journey that makes you forget about everyday life, and from Private Wisdom’s point of view, these unique experiences are gems that enhance the richness of the soul.
The train ride was on the section from Kanaya Station to Sento Station. The moment the black steam locomotive arrives at the station, the smell of smoke and the sound of the steam whistle envelop the surroundings. The body of the car is painted glossy black, and the metal parts reflect the sunlight and shine like a historical jewel. As you sit in your seat, the wooden interior lends warmth, and the lush green mountains seen through the windows provide a vivid contrast. This visual appeal added to the immersive experience of the journey.
Scenic and moving moments during the SL ride
Once the train starts moving, it travels along the Oi River at a slow speed. In my experience, as I sat by the window and watched the river flow by, the occasional suspension bridge and tea plantations were captivating. In particular, the deep green valley that opens up in your field of vision the moment you pass through the tunnel near Kawane Onsen is breathtaking. The bright green of the leaves mixed with the blueness of the river, and the soft mist added texture and created a fantastic atmosphere. This kind of scenery has a realistic feel that cannot be conveyed by photographs, making the ride fully worth it.
- Reserve a window seat to enjoy the scenery to the fullest.
- Visit during the cherry blossoms in spring or autumn leaves in fall to take advantage of the seasonal changes.
- Have your camera ready and don’t miss the shutterbugs before and after the tunnel.
See also: Secluded Hot Springs Experience Around Oigawa River
Pairing Local Gourmet Food with an SL Trip
I enjoyed local gourmet food in the area around Senkashira Station, where I stopped during my SL trip. I was impressed by the elegant taste of the ochazuke (rice with green tea) made with Kawane tea. The aroma of the tea leaves tickled my nostrils, and the sight of the warm water being poured was visually appealing. The green tea leaves float with the steam, and their soft luster creates an appetizing atmosphere. This experience adds to the satisfaction of the trip. It is convenient to check out the restaurants in the area on the official Shizuoka Prefecture tourist website.
- Choose an SL limited edition as an ekiben and taste it in the train.
- Take home locally produced wasabi and tea as souvenirs.
- Check allergy information in advance to enjoy the ride with peace of mind.
See also: How to Taste the Best of Shizuoka Tea
Tips and Fulfillment from the SL Journey
The SL train ride gave me peace of mind, freeing me from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Reading a book or having a casual conversation with the passenger next to you on the swaying train is a luxury in itself, and it is this leisurely pace that gives Private Wisdom its unique sense of luxury. The softly illuminated seats were comfortably upholstered in leather, and the warmth of the wood created a relaxed atmosphere. These details leave a vivid memory of the trip.
- Avoid crowds by choosing an early morning flight.
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and enjoy exploring during stopovers.
- Check the weather and prepare a plan to have fun even on rainy days.
See also: A Guide to Exploring Nature in Shizuoka
Q&A to answer readers’ questions
Here are answers to questions that many people have about SL travel, based on my own experiences.
Q: Do I need to make reservations to ride the SL?
A: Yes, it is required, especially on weekends and during the tourist season. Reservations can be made online through the Oigawa Railway website, and I made mine in advance for a smooth ride.
Q: How long does it take and how much does it cost?
A: It takes about 1.5 hours from Kanaya to Sengou, and the fare is about 2,000 yen one way for adults. For details, please check the official website.
Q: Can I bring my children along?
A: Of course. The sound of the steam whistle and the smoke thrills children, and I saw many families on my trip. However, if the smoke bothers you, wear a mask.
Q: What spots do you recommend in the vicinity?
A: I recommend the Sunmatakyo Gorge and Yume no Suspension Bridge near Senju Station. The emerald green surface of the water in the deep gorge, combined with the rough texture of the rock surface, creates a mysterious atmosphere.
See also: Special Family Experiences
Private Wisdom-like Summary
An SL trip on the Oigawa Railway is more than just transportation; it is a special experience that enriches the soul. For those, like me, who want to get away from the everyday, this trip is the perfect combination of Shizuoka’s nature and history. Superb relaxation and discovery await you. I hope you will include it in your next travel plans.
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