Ueda Electric Railway Bessho Line
Step back in time at this charming, unmanned retro station, a preserved piece of Japanese railway history and a gateway to Bessho Onsen.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Ueda Electric Railway Bessho Line
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at this charming, unmanned retro station, a preserved piece of Japanese railway history and a gateway to Bessho Onsen.
"An unmanned station with a wonderfully retro atmosphere, perfect for immersing yourself in nostalgia."
📸 Perfect for Photographers
Capture the station's timeless charm and the preserved train. Great for vintage vibes! :camerawithflash:
🚊 Last Stop Charm
Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this unmanned terminal station. Relax on the benches and soak it in. :train2:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Retro Station Atmosphere
Experience a wonderfully retro, unmanned station that feels like a step back in time. Well-maintained and charming.
Preserved Moha 5250 Train
Next to the station
See a beautifully preserved round-windowed train car, the Moha 5250 series, a nostalgic sight for train enthusiasts.
Otoko wa Tsurai yo Filming Location
Visit the iconic exterior that hasn't changed much since it was a filming location for the beloved TV drama.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Retro Charm
Gateway to Bessho Onsen
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Trip Report (November 14, 2023): One night in Bessho-Onsen, Ueda CityNagano prefecture
📸 Perfect for Photographers
Capture the station's timeless charm and the preserved train. Great for vintage vibes! :camerawithflash:
🚊 Last Stop Charm
Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this unmanned terminal station. Relax on the benches and soak it in. :train2:
What is the lesser known spot that you loved on your trip?
Reccs for winter onsens that are reachable via Shinkansen from Tokyo?
🛒 Snack Stop Nearby
A Lawson convenience store is right next to the station for drinks and snacks before heading to the onsen. :shopping_cart:
Itinerary Check and Help - 17 Days in April - Kyoto - Kanazawa - Nagano - Tokyo
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect for Photographers
Capture the station's timeless charm and the preserved train. Great for vintage vibes! :camerawithflash:
🚊 Last Stop Charm
Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this unmanned terminal station. Relax on the benches and soak it in. :train2:
🛒 Snack Stop Nearby
A Lawson convenience store is right next to the station for drinks and snacks before heading to the onsen. :shopping_cart:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the station's wonderfully retro and well-maintained atmosphere, highlighting its charm as an unmanned terminal. It's celebrated for its nostalgic feel, preserved train car, and cinematic connections, making it a peaceful and picturesque stop.
"nice little station for Bessho onsen , there is a Lawson nearby to stock up a bit of food and drinks before checking in to your onsen."
Spyder
"good"
食べよ てば ヨ〜
"This is a retro-now station that conveys a retro atmosphere in a modern way. It is the last stop on the Bessho Line. There are benches both inside and outside the station, so you can immerse yourself in the retro atmosphere."
Ted Stone
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The station is the terminal of the Ueda Electric Railway Bessho Line. If arriving by Shinkansen, you'll likely disembark at Ueda Station and then transfer to the Bessho Line. It's about a 10km journey from Ueda Station to Bessho Onsen station.
Yes, follow the signs for the Ueda Electric Railway at Ueda Station. The Bessho Line is clearly marked.
Yes, you can reach Ueda Station via Shinkansen from Tokyo. From Ueda Station, you'll take the local Bessho Line to Bessho Onsen station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The station itself is generally accessible, but you will need a ticket to ride the Bessho Line train.
No, it is an unmanned station, contributing to its unique retro atmosphere.
Train operating hours vary, so it's best to check the latest schedule for the Ueda Electric Railway Bessho Line before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire station building, with its retro architecture, and the preserved Moha 5250 series train car are prime photo opportunities. The exterior also holds charm as a filming location. +1
Yes, the preserved Moha 5250 series train is a popular subject for photographers.
♿ ♨️ Onsen Access
Bessho Onsen is a short distance from the station. You can typically take a local bus or a taxi to reach the various hot spring inns and public baths.
While the station serves as a gateway to Bessho Onsen, many visitors stay overnight. However, some inns may offer day-use options. It's advisable to research specific onsen facilities in Bessho Onsen.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the station is more about atmosphere than active entertainment, its proximity to Bessho Onsen means families can easily transition to a relaxing hot spring experience. The nearby Lawson is also a lifesaver for grabbing kid-friendly snacks. It's a good stop for a brief, nostalgic experience before or after enjoying the onsen town.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to photograph the station's exterior, famous for its role in the "Otoko wa Tsurai yo" film series. The interior, with its traditional touches and perhaps even local character displays, also offers unique shots. The unmanned nature of the station often means fewer people, allowing for unobstructed compositions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Retro Architecture
Its exterior famously served as a filming location for the beloved Japanese film series "Otoko wa Tsurai yo" (It's Tough Being a Man). The fact that the exterior has remained largely unchanged since then adds another layer of historical significance and charm. Inside, you might find local touches like 'Onsen Musume' (hot spring girl) characters, blending traditional and modern elements of Japanese culture.
For photographers and history buffs, the station provides ample opportunities to capture its unique character. The combination of its architectural style, the vintage train, and its cinematic connections makes it a standout attraction for anyone exploring the region. It's a place where you can truly feel the history and enjoy a moment of quiet contemplation.
Your First Step to Bessho Onsen
Travelers often note the convenience of having a Lawson convenience store located right next to the station. This is a practical tip for stocking up on drinks, snacks, or any last-minute essentials before heading to your accommodation or a day of onsen hopping. It's a small detail that adds to the overall ease of planning your visit to Bessho Onsen.
When planning your trip, consider that while the station is the end of the line for the Bessho Line, the onsen town itself is a short transfer away. This makes it an ideal starting point for a relaxing getaway focused on hot springs and traditional Japanese hospitality.
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