Watarasekaike Railway (Gunma Prefecture) Complete Guide | Enjoying Gorge Beauty and History by Trolley Train
What is the Watarasekaike Railway?
The Watarasekaike Railway (commonly called “Wa-tetsui”) is a local line spanning 44.1 km connecting Kiryu Station in Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture to Maato Station in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture. Known as a sightseeing route running along the Watarase River, it offers visitors the chance to enjoy the gorge’s seasonal beauty through the train windows.
Operated as a third-sector company, this railway inherited the former Japan Railways Ashio Line, which once handled ore transport from the Ashio Copper Mine, and opened on March 29, 1989. Today, it serves not only as a local transportation line for residents but has also become an important tourist destination in both Gunma and Tochigi prefectures through tourist resources including trolley train operations.
Basic Route Information
Operating Section: Kiryu Station (Kiryu City, Gunma) ~ Maato Station (Nikko City, Tochigi)
Total Length: 44.1 km
Number of Stations: 17
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
Track Gauge: 1,067 mm (narrow gauge)
Operating Company: Watarasekaike Railway Co., Ltd. (Third-Sector Company)
History of the Watarasekaike Railway and Its Connection to the Ashio Copper Mine
When discussing the history of the Watarasekaike Railway, one cannot overlook its deep connection to the Ashio Copper Mine. From the Meiji era through the Showa period, the Ashio Copper Mine thrived as one of Japan’s representative copper mines, and a railway was constructed to transport its ore and materials.
Japanese National Railway Ashio Line Era
The line between Kiryu and Ashio Honzan opened in 1911 (Meiji 44), playing an important role in the development of the Ashio Copper Mine. However, as the copper mine declined and automobile transportation developed, passenger numbers decreased, and in 1987 (Showa 62), the line was designated as a specific local transportation line of the Japan Railways.
Third-Sector Conversion and Transition to a Sightseeing Route
Overcoming the threat of closure, the railway restarted in 1989 as a third-sector company called “Watarasekaike Railway Co., Ltd.” funded by local municipalities and private enterprises. Focusing on the gorge’s value as a tourist resource, it established its position as a sightseeing route through the operation of trolley trains and various events.
The Appeal of the Trolley Train “Watarasekaike-go”
The greatest appeal of the Watarasekaike Railway is undoubtedly the trolley train “Watarasekaike-go.” This popular sightseeing train allows visitors to directly experience the gorge’s scenery from open-air vehicles without window glass.
Characteristics of the Trolley Train
The trolley train operates with a combination of regular passenger cars and trolley cars. Because the trolley cars have no window glass, passengers can experience the fragrance of flowering peach blossoms in spring, the refreshing gorge breeze in summer, the colors of autumn leaves in fall, and the crisp air in winter.
Operating Section: Primarily Kiryu Station ~ Maato Station (some partial-section operations available)
Operating Season: Mid-March to early December (Closed during winter)
Seating: Reserved seats (advance reservation recommended)
Train Formation: Diesel locomotive + passenger car + trolley cars
Trolley Train Fares
In addition to regular fares, a trolley arrangement fee (reserved seat ticket) is required.
- Trolley Arrangement Fee: ¥520 for adults, ¥260 for children (flat rate regardless of boarding section)
- Fare: Varies by boarding section (Example: Kiryu ~ Maato section ¥990 for adults, ¥500 for children)
Major Stations and Sightseeing Spots
The Watarasekaike Railway line features 17 stations with distinct characteristics, and attractive tourist attractions are scattered around each station.
Kiryu Station (Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture)
As the starting station, it serves as a transfer point for the JR Ryomo Line. Kiryu City is known as a weaving town with many historic structures remaining in the downtown area. The station building is modern in design with a tourism information center.
Omama Station (Midori City, Gunma Prefecture)
The main station of the Watarasekaike Railway, housing the company headquarters and vehicle depot. The area around the station has restaurants and souvenir shops, making it convenient as a sightseeing hub. As the center of Omama Town, it has the charm of a town with a rich sense of history.
Sightseeing Highlights:
- Nagame Park (Famous for cherry blossoms)
- Omama Museum (Conodont Museum)
- Takatsu-do Gorge (Scenic gorge and walking path)
Mizunuma Station (Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture)
A station with hot spring facilities inside the station building, which is rare nationwide. At “Mizunuma Station Hot Spring Center,” visitors can enjoy hot springs during train waiting times.
Facility Information:
- Bathing fee: ¥600 for adults, ¥400 for children
- Operating hours: 10:00～18:00 (Final admission 17:30)
- Spring quality: Alkaline simple hot spring
Kodo Station (Midori City, Gunma Prefecture)
Restaurant Seiryuu is attached, where visitors can enjoy dishes made with local ingredients. The area around the station is also known as particularly beautiful in terms of gorge scenery.
Ashio Station (Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture)
Serves as the base station for Ashio Copper Mine sightseeing. It is an access point to facilities where visitors can learn about the history of the Ashio Copper Mine and tourist routes touring the mining sites.
Nearby Tourist Facilities:
- Ashio Copper Mine Tour (Mine shaft viewing)
- Ashio Copper Mine Memorial Hall
- Ashio History Museum
Maato Station (Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture)
The final station, where a quiet mountain atmosphere lingers. Located in an area retaining remnants of the former copper mining town, it is also used as a starting point for hiking.
Seasonal Attractions and How to Enjoy Them
The Watarasekaike Railway’s greatest appeal is the gorge’s changing appearance throughout the seasons.
Spring (March ~ May)
The flowering peach blossom season, with beautiful peach blossoms blooming throughout the line. Particularly striking are the flowering peach blossoms around Kodo Station, where pink, white, and red flowers color the gorge. Cherry blossoms can also be enjoyed around each station, with Nagame Park (near Omama Station) being especially famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot.
Recommended Period: Early to mid-April
Highlights: Flowering peach blossoms, cherry blossoms, fresh green growth
Summer (June ~ August)
A season of fresh greenery and clear streams. The refreshing breeze entering through the trolley train’s open windows is delightful, and visitors can feel the gorge’s negative ions throughout their bodies. Bathing at the Mizunuma Station Hot Spring Center is perfect for washing away summer heat.
Recommended Period: June ~ July
Highlights: Deep green gorge, sparkling clear streams, summer cooling retreat
Autumn (September ~ November)
Autumn leaf viewing season is when the Watarasekaike Railway shines brightest. The mountains along the Watarase River turn red and yellow, and the view from the train windows is spectacular. The peak season is late October through early November.
Recommended Period: Late October ~ Early November
Highlights: Gorge beauty with autumn foliage, crisp autumn air
Popular Spots: Takatsu-do Gorge, area around Kodo Station, section between Ashio and Maato stations
Winter (December ~ February)
The illumination season when each station is decorated with lights. “Watarasekaike Railway Each Station Illumination” features volunteer-decorated stations with warm-toned lighting. Snow-covered gorges also possess a magical beauty.
Recommended Period: December ~ February
Highlights: Station illuminations, snowy landscape, quiet winter gorge
Fares, Ticket Prices, and Discount Ticket Information
Basic Fares
Watarasekaike Railway fares are set according to distance.
Sample Fares for Major Sections (Adult one-way):
- Kiryu ~ Omama: ¥380
- Kiryu ~ Mizunuma: ¥550
- Kiryu ~ Kodo: ¥690
- Kiryu ~ Ashio: ¥880
- Kiryu ~ Maato: ¥990
Children’s fares are half of adult fares (rounded up for amounts under 10 yen).
All-Day Free Riding Pass
Watarasekaike Line All-Day Unlimited Riding Ticket
A great value ticket allowing free boarding and alighting across the entire line for one day.
- Adult: ¥2,200
- Child: ¥1,100
- Valid Period: Purchase date only
- Purchase Location: Station windows, onboard (excluding some stations)
If you plan to get off at multiple stations for sightseeing, this free pass is definitely worthwhile. For example, a round trip from Kiryu to Maato alone costs ¥1,980, so the free pass is recommended if making stops en route.
Other Discount Tickets
Trolley Train Set Tickets (Limited Period)
During tourist seasons, discounted combination tickets bundling fares and trolley arrangement fees are sometimes available. Check the official website for details.
Access and Usage Information
Train Access
From Tokyo:
- From JR Ueno Station via JR Takasaki Line and Ryomo Line to Kiryu Station: approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
- From Tobu Railway Asakusa Station on Limited Express Ryomou to Aio Station, transfer to JR Ryomo Line to Kiryu Station: approximately 2 hours
From within Gunma:
- From JR Takasaki Station on JR Ryomo Line to Kiryu Station: approximately 1 hour 10 minutes
Car Access
From Major Interchanges:
- From Kita Kanto Expressway “Ota Kiryu IC” to Kiryu city center: approximately 15 minutes
- From Kita Kanto Expressway “Isesaki IC” to Kiryu city center: approximately 30 minutes
Parking Information:
- Around Kiryu Station: Paid parking available
- Omama Station: Free parking lot in front of station (limited spaces)
- Other stations: Small parking spaces available (free)
Operating Schedule and Frequency
Regular Trains: Approximately 10 round trips daily (slight variations between weekdays and holidays)
Trolley Trains: 1-3 round trips on operating days (frequency varies by season and day of week)
For the latest timetable, it is recommended to check the Watarasekaike Railway official website. Trolley train operating days are particularly limited, making advance confirmation essential.
Events and Special Train Information
The Watarasekaike Railway operates various events and special trains throughout the year.
Regular Events
Watarasekaike Railway Each Station Illumination
- Held: December ~ February
- Content: All 17 stations decorated with illuminations—a winter tradition
- Feature: Warm, handmade decorations by local volunteers
Flowering Peach Blossom Festival
- Held: Early to mid-April
- Content: Tourism campaign timed to the flowering peach blossoms along the line
- Perks: Souvenir distribution, photo contests, etc.
Autumn Foliage Season Special Operations
- Held: Late October ~ Early November
- Content: Increased trolley train service, special schedules
Special and Event Trains
Restaurant Seiryuu Train (Irregular operation)
A special train where passengers can enjoy local cuisine while experiencing the gorge beauty. Reservation-required with limited operating days.
Beer Train (Summer Limited)
An evening event train for adults operating in summer. Enjoy beer and food while slowly traveling through the nighttime gorge.
Various Charter Trains
Charter train operations are available for groups. Used for wedding receptions, class reunions, corporate events, and more.
Roadside Cuisine and Souvenirs
Station Bento and In-Train Sales
Wa-tetsui Bento
Station bento made with local ingredients are sold at each station and onboard. Omama Station especially features seasonal bento options.
Roadside Restaurants
Restaurant Seiryuu (Kodo Station)
- Operating Hours: 11:00～15:00 (varies by season)
- Specialty: Dishes using Yamato pork, local vegetable menus
- Feature: Dining with gorge views
Mizunuma Station Hot Spring Center Dining Hall
- Operating Hours: According to hot spring operating hours
- Menu: Set meals, noodles, light snacks
Souvenirs
Wa-tetsui Goods
- Trolley train miniature models
- Original T-shirts, keychains
- Station name sign replicas
Local Specialties
- Kiryu textile products
- Midori City agricultural product processed goods
- Ashio Copper Mine related souvenirs
Photography Spots and Photogenic Points
Recommended Photography Points
Takatsu-do Gorge (Near Omama Station)
The walking path offers views of the gorge and the train crossing the bridge. Particularly spectacular during autumn foliage season.
Area Around Kodo Station
A popular spot where trains, gorge, flowering peach blossoms, and autumn foliage can be captured together. Multiple photography points exist within walking distance of the station.
Iron Bridge Between Mizunuma and Hanawa Stations
The train crossing the iron bridge over the Watarase River is one of the Watarasekaike Railway’s signature scenes.
Mountain Scenery Between Ashio and Maato Stations
The train traveling through deep mountain scenery offers the atmospheric charm unique to local railway lines.
Photography Etiquette
- Never trespass on private property
- Never enter railway tracks
- Be considerate of other tourists and local residents
- Take all trash with you
Nearby Tourist Spots and Model Courses
Tourist Spots on the Gunma Side
Kiryu City
- Kiryu Textile Memorial Museum
- Kiryu-Ooka Zoo
- Kiryu Meiji Hall
- Yurinkan (Historic Structure)
Midori City
- Nagame Park
- Takatsu-do Gorge
- Tomihiro Art Museum
- Kodaira no Sato (Campground)
Tourist Spots on the Tochigi Side
Nikko City (Ashio Area)
- Ashio Copper Mine Tour
- Ashio Copper Mine Memorial Hall
- Ashio History Museum
- Matsuki Valley (Hiking)
Recommended Model Courses
Day Trip Course (Trolley Train Experience)
- Kiryu Station (Depart 9:00) → Depart on trolley train
- Omama Station (9:30) → Takatsu-do Gorge walk (30 minutes)
- Mizunuma Station (11:00) → Hot spring bath & lunch (90 minutes)
- Kodo Station (13:00) → Restaurant Seiryuu or nearby exploration (60 minutes)
- Ashio Station (15:00) → Ashio Copper Mine tour (90 minutes)
- Maato Station (17:00) → Return trip
- Kiryu Station (Arrival 18:30)
2-Day, 1-Night Course (Leisurely Experience)
【Day 1】
- Morning: Kiryu city exploration (textile-related facilities)
- Afternoon: Trolley train to Omama, Takatsu-do Gorge walk
- Evening: Stay at Mizunuma Station hot spring or nearby hot spring inn
【Day 2】
- Morning: Restaurant Seiryuu dining at Kodo Station
- Afternoon: Ashio Copper Mine tour, historical learning
- Evening: Return to Kiryu Station for departure
Precautions and Advice When Using the Railway
Precautions for Trolley Train Use
- Clothing: Since there are no windows, weather-appropriate clothing for temperature and sun protection is necessary
- Belongings: Be careful items don’t blow away (such as hats)
- Rainy Weather: Vinyl sheets are provided, but bringing rain gear is reassuring
- Reservations: Holidays and autumn foliage season often sell out, so advance reservation is recommended
Winter Operations
- Trolley trains close from early December through mid-March
- Regular trains may be delayed or suspended in heavy snow
- Check the official website for latest operating information
Barrier-Free Information
- Some stations (such as Kiryu and Omama) are barrier-free accessible
- Many unmanned stations exist with stairs-only access, so advance confirmation is recommended
- Wheelchair boarding should be reported in advance
Contact Information
Watarasekaike Railway Co., Ltd.
- Address: 1603-1 Omama, Omama Town, Midori City, Gunma Prefecture (Inside Omama Station)
- Phone: 0277-73-2110
- Business Hours: 8:30～17:15
- Official Website: Latest information, timetables, and event information posted
Conclusion: The Charm of the Watarasekaike Railway
The Watarasekaike Railway, a 44.1 km local line connecting Gunma and Tochigi prefectures, possesses charm that transcends its role as mere transportation.
The gorge beauty viewed from the trolley train changes with each season—spring’s flowering peach blossoms, summer’s fresh greenery, autumn’s foliage, and winter’s illuminations—making it worth visiting year-round. With its aspect as industrial heritage conveying the history of the Ashio Copper Mine, it offers opportunities for sightseeing and learning combined.
Each station has its own character—Mizunuma Station with its in-station hot spring and Kodo Station with its attached restaurant—providing abundant pleasures of intermediate stops. Using the all-day free riding ticket allows you to explore the line at your own pace.
The Watarasekaike Railway offers the chance to escape urban bustle and experience slowly flowing time. When visiting Gunma Prefecture, be sure to board this charming local line and experience the gorge’s nature, history, and the warmth of the region.
