Japan has once again proven itself a leader in blending tradition with innovation. The country has officially built the world’s first 3D-printed train station building at Hatsushima Station, located in the scenic Arida City of Wakayama Prefecture in the Kansai Region. West Japan Railway said it expected to open the new building for use in July.
This small but groundbreaking station is the latest effort by West Japan Railway Company (JR West) to modernize rural infrastructure while preserving local charm. Travel to this station is also included in your Japan Rail Pass!
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A technological first for Japan — and the world
Measuring just 10 square meters, the new single-story station was built using 3D-printing technology, a first for railway infrastructure anywhere in the world. The structure is made from reinforced concrete, with all components 3D-printed off-site by Osaka-based firm Serendix, known for its speedy, sustainable construction methods.
Once printed, the pieces were transported to the site and assembled in around six hours during a break in the train schedule — an astonishingly fast timeline compared to traditional builds. For passengers and local residents, this meant minimal disruption to services and a seamless upgrade to a more durable, weather-resistant station. The building also has earthquake resistance similar to that of reinforced concrete houses, JR West said.
A design that celebrates local culture
While the construction method is thoroughly modern, the station’s design pays homage to the region’s culture and economy. The exterior features decorative reliefs of mandarin oranges and beltfish — two specialties of Arida City.
The building’s rounded, dome-like shape also recalls traditional architectural aesthetics while showcasing how futuristic technology can blend harmoniously with local identity.
Solving big problems for small stations
Japan is known for its efficient and expansive rail network, but rural stations have faced increasing challenges in recent years. Declining populations and tight budgets have made it difficult to maintain aging infrastructure, leaving many stations in need of attention.
JR West sees 3D-printing as a smart, cost-effective solution to these challenges. Hatsushima Station is being used as a test case, and if it proves successful in the long term, similar upgrades could be rolled out across other small and mid-sized stations throughout Japan.
What this means for travelers
For visitors riding the rails across Japan, especially those exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, this project marks a step toward more comfortable, modern, and sustainable travel experiences.
While the Hatsushima Station itself is small and serves a quiet region, it symbolizes a much larger shift in how Japan approaches infrastructure — keeping quality high while embracing cutting-edge solutions.
Thinking of exploring Wakayama? With beautiful coastal scenery, historic temples, and now a piece of world-first technology, Arida City is a unique stop for the curious traveler. Discover the region with your Kansai Wide Area Pass.