Passing it by last year
Last summer, after enjoying some summer skiing in Engaru, I was on my way to Maruseppu Onsen to wash off the sweat when I noticed the Maruseppu Forest Park Ikoi-no-Mori. It piqued my interest because I saw an insect museum and a steam locomotive running. But in the end, I liked the onsen way too much and ended up completely relaxed and mellow. I got so excited about the idea of staying at the hotel with that amazing onsen next time that I ended up driving right past the park on my way home, too.
The only forest railway steam locomotive in Japan preserved in operating condition
This small but powerful steam locomotive, Amamiya No. 21, is the only forest railway steam locomotive in Japan that is still preserved in operating condition. You can actually ride it, and the tracks laid out in Ikoi-no-Mori are nearly 2 kilometers long, making it a pretty authentic experience.
Despite being a small steam locomotive and having a cute-looking chimney, its jet-black, powerful form creates a bit of an imbalance that gives it an indescribable charm.
A great bonus is that you can take a real close look at it when it’s not running (lol).
Seeing them toss coal into the roaring boiler while it’s running is just so cool.
Since the Murii River flows through Ikoi-no-Mori, Amamiya No. 21 crosses bridges over the river and runs right past the campground. It’s absolutely thrilling for kids who love trains (and for adults too, haha). It’s easy to see why some kids were riding it over and over again.
You can really feel how much the locals love and care for it, which is also really nice.
コメント