This video by Choo-Choo Travel showcases the astounding Sorachi Railway (空知鉄道), a privately constructed railway in the secluded landscapes of Hokkaido. What sets this railway apart is that it was built entirely by one individual—rails, vehicles, stations, and operating systems all painstakingly crafted by hand. The video begins at the Iwamizawa 711 Series Akaden site, highlighting the remarkable depth of passion and technical ingenuity behind the Sorachi Railway.

The Sorachi Railway is not a public attraction, but rather a fully functioning, personal railway created in the owner’s own backyard. The video dives deep into the features of this one-of-a-kind railway: operational switch points, authentic digital signboards, intercom-linked station offices, and new rolling stock controllable with a “Densha de GO!” controller for added realism. The sense of immersion is heightened with stunning footage from the driver’s perspective, simulating the experience of being an actual train operator while traversing through the beautiful fields of Hokkaido.

Special permission granted for this video allows a look into the inner workings and behind-the-scenes details of the railway. The host interviews the passionate creator about the laborious process of building and maintaining such a railway under the challenging snowy Hokkaido climate. Viewers are taken on a walk through sections of abandoned real railway lines, further showcasing the area’s deep train culture and history.

Additional highlights include a visit to the Akagawa Station, a ride on the hand-built 1910 and 46 series units, and a tour of the North Kitamura Rolling Stock Depot. The video also reveals production secrets, lessons learned, and dreams for future loop-line operations. While not open to the public or visitors without prior arrangement, the Sorachi Railway represents a pinnacle of railway enthusiasm and showcases the deep connection some Japanese have with rail travel and model railway culture.

If you are captivated by Japanese railways, offbeat travel, or DIY marvels, this unique look at Hokkaido’s private Sorachi Railway is a must-watch, blending technical achievement with the scenic charm of Japan’s northern frontier. Featured places include the Iwamizawa 711 Akaden location and iconic Hokkaido scenery. As an additional travel note, Iwamizawa is located in central Hokkaido, roughly at latitude 43.2132, longitude 141.7627, and is known for both its historical rail links and rural atmosphere.