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HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Omisaki Station
Yellow handkerchiefs of happiness at Japan's closest station to the sea
shimabara tourist bureau
Located in Shimabara City, Nagasaki Prefecture, Omisaki Station has become quite popular on Instagram and other social networks. Do you know why? Because it is said to be the closest station to the sea in Japan! With an open-air platform set only a few steps away from the Ariake Sea, this small, charming station is a very photogenic spot and has been often used as a filming location for movies and commercials.
The most famous feature of Omisaki Station are the yellow handkerchiefs hanging on lines over the platform, which create a beautiful contrast with the blue of the sky and the sea. In Japan, yellow handkerchiefs are said to symbolize happiness. Get your own yellow handkerchief at the capsule vending machine installed at the station, write a wish or a message on it and hang it up with the others. It will be a wonderful memory of your trip!
The trains stopping at Omisaki Station have a retro look that makes you feel as if you were in a movie scene. The Shimabara Railway was established during the Meiji period (1868-1912) and Japan’s first steam locomotive ran on its tracks until 1930. The best way to explore this scenic line is a ride on the Shimatetsu Café Train, which offers passengers panoramic views accompanied by local dishes and sweets. The Shimatetsu Café Train stops at Omisaki Station for 45 minutes, allowing you plenty of time to enjoy its unique atmosphere.
How to get there
From Nagasaki Airport, take a bus to Hon-Isahaya Station (about 30 minutes), then take the Shimabara Railway to Omisaki Station (about 1 hour).
From Isahaya Station on the Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen, take the Shimabara Railway to Omisaki Station (about 1 hour).
135-2 Omisakihei, Ariake-cho, Shimabara-shi, Nagasaki-ken
