For fans of the film Poppoya (The Railroad Man), the Daruma Shokudo film set near Ikutora Station in Minami-Furano is a must-visit. This outdoor set preserves the nostalgic atmosphere of the movie’s locations, making it a perfect pilgrimage spot for admirers of the film. The set includes not only the Daruma Shokudo but also other shops featured in the movie, such as Hirata Barber and Iguchi Store, recreating the look and feel of the film’s era. Nearby, part of the actual “Poppoya” train (a modified KiHa 40/12 railcar) is displayed with signatures and memorabilia from the cast inside. Inside the station building, visitors can find original film props like ticket gates, signal equipment, uniforms, photos, and a video digest of the movie. The platform is adorned with traditional signal arms and a classic red mailbox, preserving the film’s authentic ambiance. While the site is relatively small, it offers an immersive experience for those who want to take their time and dive deep into the story and setting of Poppoya. Admission is free, and it’s easily accessible by car or motorcycle.

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Filming location of the movie "Poppoya (Railroad Man)." The scenery of a local Hokkaido rail line was used as-is, and it's still popular today as a "pilgrimage" spot. You can tell the locals keep it beautifully maintained. I think I'll watch the movie again and soak in the memories. ・Title: Railroad Man (Poppoya) ・Starring: Ken Takakura ・Original work: Jiro Asada

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Daruma Shokudo," which appears in the Ken Takakura film "Railroad Man (Poppoya)," is the diner in front of Horomai Station where Otomatsu Sato works. It's portrayed as a place where Otomatsu interacts with the locals, and the scenes with Hajime Yoshioka, played by Ken Shimura, are especially memorable. "Daruma Shokudo" was built as a set for this film and has been preserved along with Ikutora Station and other sites since the film's release. However, since it's a movie set, it doesn't actually operate as a restaurant!

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This is "Ikutora Station," which used to be on JR Hokkaido's Nemuro Main Line⋯ a station closed in 2024 that exudes a wabi-sabi feel. The current station building served as the setting for the Ken Takakura film "Poppoya," which depicts the life of a railroad man who kept standing at a terminal station at the far end of the north, and appeared under the name of Horomai Station⋯ on a local line. The buildings and shops used in filming, along with the front section of diesel railcar KiHa 40764, are installed and preserved in front of the station. I recommend it as the most atmospheric spot in the Minami-Furano area.

Thank you so much for keeping this place so beautifully maintained🙏