1905
121 years ago
OpeningJapan
Hokkaido Railway Extension
Japanese Government Railways
Sapporo
September 1, 1905
Summary
The Japanese Government Railways extended service on Hokkaido, opening new coal-hauling routes.
Full Story
On September 1, 1905, the Japanese Government Railways opened a key extension of the Hakodate Main Line in Hokkaido, improving access to the Yubari coal fields. Steam locomotives of the 8600 class hauled heavy mineral trains over challenging volcanic terrain. This development supported Japan's rapid industrialization during the Meiji era and strengthened military logistics ahead of the Russo-Japanese War. The line later became part of JR Hokkaido and remains an important freight corridor today.
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Quick Facts
- Date
- September 1, 1905
- Event Type
- Opening
- Country
- Japan
- Years Ago
- 121
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