Glancing around, we find ourselves at Takayasuyama Station. It is a place of transit and a testament to local history. Takayasuyama Station serves as the gateway to the serene Kobo Daishi temple.
Takayasuyama Station opened its doors on December 15, 1930. This was the same day the Shigi-Ikoma Electric Railway cable line launched. The station became part of Kintetsu. This happened when Shigi-Ikoma Electric Railway changed its name. It was renamed Ikoma Sanjo Express Electric Railway on November 2, 1931.
Interestingly, the station’s layout features two platforms. These serve a single track. Typically, only the southern platform is in use. The northern one remains locked.
Takayasuyama Station is managed by the Kintetsu Yao Station. Although unstaffed it ensures smooth operations for passengers. Automated ticket gates are absent. However, a simplified gate handles PiTaPa and ICOCA cards.
Before the Second World War, a railway line ran from here to the Shigi-Ikoma Electric Railway. After the war, the cable line was revived. The railway line was not. The old railway was converted into a road.
Interestingly, vestiges of the former railway platform can still be seen by the bus stop. This road forms part of the Ikoma Skyline. It offers scenic views.
In 2015, Takayasuyama Station embraced modern ticketing. It enabled the use of IC cards, including PiTaPa and ICOCA. The average daily ridership in 2015 was just 34 passengers. Takayasuyama Station is quiet now.
To reach Mount Shigi’s Chogosonshi-ji Temple, take a Kintetsu bus from Takayasuyama. The bus stop is right outside the station. The bus will take you to the temple atop the mountain.
As we conclude our visit to Takayasuyama Station, remember its history. Think of its role as a vital link to sacred sites. Although small, the station has great importance for this region.