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In the heart of Sagawa Town, nestled within the historic Uemachi district, stands a testament to Japan's rich railway heritage—the Ro 481 wooden passenger car. This venerable carriage, crafted in 1906, is the nation's sole surviving four-wheeled wooden second-class passenger car, now proudly displayed at the Uemachi Station exhibition facility.
As you approach the facility, the scent of aged timber mingles with the crisp air, evoking memories of a bygone era. The Ro 481, with its polished wooden panels and intricate detailing, exudes an aura of timeless elegance. Stepping inside, the soft creak of the floorboards underfoot whispers tales of countless journeys undertaken over a century ago.
The interior is a harmonious blend of functionality and artistry. Plush, crimson seats invite visitors to rest, while ornate brass fixtures gleam softly in the ambient light. The carriage's design reflects the craftsmanship of the Meiji era, a period when attention to detail was paramount. Central to the carriage is a quaint washroom, complete with a vintage porcelain basin, offering a glimpse into the travel comforts of the past.
The Ro 481's journey is as captivating as its design. After serving the Tosa Line, connecting Susaki to Kusaka, it was decommissioned in 1930. Recognizing its historical significance, the carriage was gifted to Sagawa Town in 1933, where it found a new purpose as a reading room adjacent to the Aoyama Bunko library. For decades, it stood as a cherished landmark, fostering a love for literature among the townsfolk.
However, time took its toll, and in 1968, the aging carriage was returned to the Japanese National Railways for restoration. After meticulous refurbishment at the Tadotsu Works in Kagawa Prefecture, it was preserved as a cultural artifact. In a heartwarming turn of events, the Ro 481 made its triumphant return to Sagawa in 2021, reinstated as a symbol of the town's enduring connection to its railway roots.
The Uemachi Station exhibition facility, where the Ro 481 now resides, is more than just a display space. It serves as a cultural hub, offering insights into Sagawa's rich history. Adjacent to the exhibition is the Sagawa Bunko Kokusha, formerly the Aoyama Bunko, a repository of historical documents and artifacts. The area is also home to the Takemura Residence, a nationally designated Important Cultural Property, showcasing Edo-period architecture and offering a glimpse into the lives of affluent merchants of the time.
As you wander through the Uemachi district, the harmonious blend of traditional white-walled sake breweries and preserved merchant houses transports you to a different era. The gentle hum of daily life, combined with the echoes of history, creates an atmosphere where the past and present coexist seamlessly.
Visiting the Ro 481 and its surroundings is not merely an exploration of a historic artifact; it's an immersive journey into the soul of Sagawa Town. It's a place where stories of resilience, craftsmanship, and community spirit are etched into every beam and brick, inviting all who visit to become a part of its ongoing narrative.