“Steam engine models? Beside a school?” You might ask. Indeed, a retro coffee shop once sat near the rear gate of Yotsukaido Nishi Junior High School.
Let’s step back in time and explore this landmark. Yotsukaido Nishi Junior High School opened its doors in April 1979. It branched off from Yotsukaido Junior High School. The school started with 752 students in 19 classes and 32 staff members.
In July of 1980, the indoor gymnasium was completed marking a significant milestone. This addition provided ample space for physical education.
In 1981, Yotsukaido Town became Yotsukaido City. Subsequently, the school’s name changed to Yotsukaido City Yotsukaido Nishi Junior High School. At that time the school had 870 students and 36 staff members.
Around 2004, a retro coffee shop stood opposite the school’s rear gate. Its windows displayed intricate models of steam locomotives. One was a Pennsylvania Railroad engine. The shop’s owner was from another world. It closed about ten years ago. Even now, a model train decorates the window.
Yotsukaido Nishi Junior High School saw further developments. A martial arts hall was rebuilt by March 2016. Air conditioning was installed in regular classrooms.
The school celebrated its 10th anniversary in November 1988. A commemorative event marked the occasion. The 20th anniversary celebration took place in November 1998. The 30th anniversary followed in June 2008.
The school’s sports hall underwent earthquake resistance work. This work began in September 2011. It finished in February 2012.
Today, Yotsukaido Nishi Junior High School continues to educate students. The school supports club activities. A support group assists these clubs. In 2023, club participation was high. About 87.8% of students joined. The school’s address is Ohsawi 23, Yotsukaido City, Chiba Prefecture.