In late May’s morning calm,
Old tracks lie amidst green balm,
Kumanotaira’s echoes of the past,
Silent now, their shadows cast.
Photo Description – The Abandoned Kumanotaira Station
This photograph captures the serene and historic site of the former Kumanotaira Station, nestled within the lush greenery of Usui Pass in Annaka City, Gunma Prefecture. The old overhead wiring and tracks remain, standing as a silent testament to the station’s once pivotal role. Now devoid of trains, the site quietly welcomes visitors as a relic of Japan’s rich railway heritage.
Story Behind the Photo – Reflecting on Kumanotaira’s Past
Taken in the late morning of a late May day, this image depicts the abandoned Kumanotaira Station, located midway through Usui Pass. Initially established as a water and coal supply station when the Shin’etsu Main Line between Yokokawa and Karuizawa opened, it was upgraded to a railway station in 1906 and then downgraded to a signal station in 1966. The station was eventually closed in 1997 when the line was discontinued. Once part of a vital artery connecting Tokyo, Nagano, and the Hokuriku region, the station now stands as a poignant reminder of its significant past.
From an Amateur Photographer’s Perspective – Capturing Forgotten Heritage
The aim of this photograph was to capture the tranquil and historical essence of the abandoned Kumanotaira Station amidst the lush greenery of Usui Pass. I framed the remaining overhead wiring and tracks to highlight their silent, enduring presence. The challenge was to balance the exposure to bring out the rich colors of the surrounding foliage while maintaining the clarity of the old railway infrastructure. This image aims to reflect the historical significance of the station and its integration into the natural landscape, evoking a sense of tranquility and nostalgia.
Equipment and EXIF Information
- Camera: Olympus PEN-F
- Lens: M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO
- Shutter Speed: 1/320 s
- Aperture: ƒ/8
- ISO: 400
Location