Train station • Shigarakichomaki, Koka, Shiga 529-1803, Japan
Shigarakigūsho Station is a small unmanned station on the Shigaraki Kogen Railway. As the name suggests, it is located near the ruins of the Nara period capital, Shigarakigū Palace. On a rainy day, let's take a historical walk in this area and immerse ourselves in the ancient romance beyond time.
Leaving the station, the first thing you see is the rural scenery of the Miyamachi area. This quiet square with an explanatory board is a part of the palace ruins. It is a place that exceeds imagination and makes you feel the magnificence of the former capital city.
A 15-minute walk from there, you will reach the Uchirinojichi area, where you will see remains such as the Chūmon (central gate), Kondō (main hall), Sōbō (monks' quarters), and Kōdō (lecture hall). The ancient atmosphere seems to emanate from the foundation stones. As you visit the historical sites, you will feel the lively image of the former capital city.
The culmination of the walk is the memorial monument for a train accident. As you contemplate the monument quietly standing alongside the tracks, you will surely feel the emotions of people transcending time and space. As you contemplate history, imprint a journey in your heart. Such luxurious time can be found here.