**Hanyūda Station**
**Definition**
Hanyūda Station is a railway station located in the city of Tainai, Niigata Prefecture, Japan. It serves as a stop on the Uetsu Main Line operated by East Japan Railway Company (JR East).
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# Hanyūda Station
Hanyūda Station (羽生田駅, Hanyūda-eki) is a passenger railway station situated in Tainai, Niigata Prefecture, Japan. It is operated by the East Japan Railway Company (JR East) and serves the Uetsu Main Line, which connects Niigata Prefecture with Akita Prefecture along the Sea of Japan coast. The station plays a role in local transportation, providing access to the surrounding residential and rural areas.
## Location and Access
Hanyūda Station is located in the northern part of Niigata Prefecture within the city limits of Tainai. The station address is in the Hanyūda district, which is a primarily residential and agricultural area. The station is accessible by local roads and is connected to nearby communities through bus services and local transportation networks.
The station lies approximately 17.8 kilometers from Niitsu Station, the starting point of the Uetsu Main Line. Niitsu Station is a major railway hub in Niigata Prefecture, providing connections to the Joetsu Shinkansen and other regional lines.
## Lines and Services
Hanyūda Station is served exclusively by the Uetsu Main Line, which runs from Niitsu Station in Niigata Prefecture to Akita Station in Akita Prefecture. The line is an important regional rail corridor along the Sea of Japan coast, facilitating both passenger and freight transportation.
### Uetsu Main Line
– **Operator:** East Japan Railway Company (JR East)
– **Distance from Niitsu Station:** 17.8 km
– **Service Type:** Local and regional trains
– **Frequency:** Trains typically run several times per day, with increased frequency during peak commuting hours.
The station primarily accommodates local trains that stop at all stations along the line. Limited express services generally do not stop at Hanyūda Station.
## Station Layout
Hanyūda Station features a simple layout designed to serve local passenger traffic efficiently. The station consists of two opposed side platforms serving two tracks. The platforms are connected by a footbridge, allowing passengers to cross safely between platforms.
### Platforms
– **Platform 1:** Serves trains bound for Niitsu and points south.
– **Platform 2:** Serves trains bound for Sakata and points north.
The station building is located adjacent to Platform 1 and includes a waiting area and ticketing facilities. The station is staffed during certain hours, providing assistance to passengers and managing ticket sales.
### Facilities
– **Ticket Office:** Staffed ticket counter available during operating hours.
– **Waiting Room:** Enclosed waiting area for passengers.
– **Restrooms:** Basic restroom facilities are available.
– **Accessibility:** The station is equipped with ramps and signage to assist passengers with disabilities, although the footbridge may limit full accessibility for some users.
## History
Hanyūda Station was opened on November 1, 1914, as part of the expansion of the Uetsu Main Line. The station was established to serve the local community and facilitate transportation of agricultural products and passengers in the region.
Following the privatization of Japanese National Railways (JNR) on April 1, 1987, the station came under the control of JR East. Since then, the station has continued to operate as a local stop on the Uetsu Main Line, adapting to changes in passenger demand and regional development.
Over the years, the station building and facilities have undergone renovations to improve passenger comfort and safety. However, the station has retained much of its original character as a small regional rail stop.
## Passenger Usage
Hanyūda Station primarily serves local residents commuting to work, school, and other daily activities. Passenger numbers tend to be modest, reflecting the rural and suburban nature of the surrounding area.
According to JR East statistics, the station handles several hundred passengers daily, with peak usage during morning and evening commuting hours. The station is an important access point for students attending nearby schools and for residents traveling to larger urban centers.
## Surrounding Area
The area surrounding Hanyūda Station is characterized by a mix of residential neighborhoods, agricultural land, and small commercial establishments. The community is typical of rural Niigata Prefecture, with a focus on rice cultivation and other farming activities.
### Points of Interest
– **Local Schools:** Several elementary and junior high schools are located within walking distance of the station.
– **Agricultural Facilities:** The region is known for its rice paddies and farming cooperatives.
– **Community Centers:** Local community halls and cultural centers serve residents in the vicinity.
– **Road Access:** Nearby roads connect the station area to other parts of Tainai and neighboring municipalities.
While the station area does not feature major tourist attractions, it provides essential connectivity for residents and visitors exploring the rural landscapes of Niigata Prefecture.
## Transportation Connections
In addition to rail services, Hanyūda Station is served by local bus routes that connect the station to surrounding neighborhoods and regional destinations. These bus services provide first- and last-mile connectivity for passengers.
Taxi services are occasionally available near the station, although the rural setting means that private vehicle use is common among residents.
## Future Developments
As of the latest available information, there are no major redevelopment plans announced for Hanyūda Station. JR East continues to maintain the station as part of its regional rail network, focusing on safety, accessibility, and passenger convenience.
Local government initiatives aimed at promoting regional development and tourism may influence future enhancements to transportation infrastructure, including Hanyūda Station.
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# Summary
Hanyūda Station is a small but vital railway station on the Uetsu Main Line in Tainai, Niigata Prefecture. Serving local residents and commuters, it provides essential rail access in a predominantly rural area. Operated by JR East, the station features two side platforms and basic passenger facilities. Since its opening in 1914, Hanyūda Station has supported the transportation needs of the community and continues to function as a key node in the regional rail network.
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**Meta Description:**
Hanyūda Station is a railway station in Tainai, Niigata Prefecture, Japan, serving the Uetsu Main Line operated by JR East. It provides local rail access with two side platforms and basic passenger facilities.