This video delves into the unique characteristics of the JR Kure Line (呉線), operated by JR West in the Chugoku region of Japan. Despite initial plans and construction efforts to convert it into a double-track railway, this project was abandoned, leaving several unused tunnels along the route. The Kure Line is notable for directly connecting to the Hiroshima metropolitan area, a major designated city, and consistently experiencing high ridership demand. However, for reasons explained in the video, the anticipated dual-track expansion never fully materialized.

Travelers on the Kure Line are treated to spectacular scenery as the route traces the coastline of the Seto Inland Sea. In addition to breathtaking ocean views and charming seaside towns, viewers will see one of Japan’s shortest railway tunnels, an oddity on a line that otherwise boasts significant engineering feats. The video highlights how these features make the Kure Line a favorite for both railway enthusiasts and tourists seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.

The JR Kure Line (呉線) runs from Mihara Station (三原駅) in Hiroshima Prefecture to Kaitaichi Station (海田市駅) near central Hiroshima City, passing through locations such as Kure (呉市) and Takehara (竹原市). Each stop provides access to local historical sites, naval heritage, and coastal parks. The area around Kure City, for example, is renowned for its former naval shipyards and the Yamato Museum. If you’re planning travel in southern Hiroshima, taking the Kure Line provides more than just transportation—it offers a memorable window into rural and maritime Japan.