Lost in the lesser-explored corners of Japan’s capital lies the abandoned Okutama Ropeway, a relic of the past that piques the curiosity of haikyo enthusiasts. Nestled near an artificial lake, this former mode of transport now offers visitors a gentle atmosphere that is both mysterious and captivating. Guided tour.
From Ascent to Abandonment: The Brief Life of the Okutama Cable Car
Constructed in October 1961 by the Ogouchi Tourism Development Company, the Okutama Ropeway connected the two shores of the lake between Kawano and Mitosanguchi. The 621-meter crossing, with a vertical drop of just under 0.65 meters, was likely more intended for hikers than as a tourist attraction in itself.
Despite its inauguration during a period of economic growth in Japan and with the Tokyo Olympics on the horizon, the gondola quickly lost its popularity in the following years. The competition from new bridges crossing the lake led to a temporary closure in December 1966, ultimately sealing the fate of the gondola, which never resumed operation.
In short, as you can see, its life as a haikyo has lasted far longer than its former life.
A Haikyo Spot for Mechanics Enthusiasts
Today, the Okutama cable car offers urban explorers an experience that is both intriguing and nostalgic. As you approach Mitosanguchi Station, a sense of decay and abandonment sets in, with its broken windows and weathered walls. Inside, remnants of the past blend with encroaching vegetation, creating a striking tableau of nature reclaiming man’s creation.
The Kawano station, on the other hand, retains an air of nostalgia, freezing visitors in a time bubble from the 1960s. Despite the years of abandonment, the equipment and decor still reflect the ambition that guided the construction of this project. Every detail, from the turnstiles to the information posters, tells a forgotten story, reminding visitors of the excitement of a bygone era.
In these two stations, the cable car cabins, once briefly brought to life by the comings and goings of passengers, now stand silently on their respective sides. They are only occasionally disturbed by the passage of a few adventurous urban explorers.
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