Outline of the Erosion Control Works Service Train in Tateyama
The current truck train
Recognizing that the first requirement for sabo construction of Tateyama Caldera was a transport of materials to the construction site in the depths of mountains, the first director Masao Akagi planned to develop an Erosion Control Works Service Train (trolley train).
The train connected Senjugahara, where Tateyama Mountain Area Sabo Office is located, and Mizutani Branch Office, which was the frontline of sabo works in Tateyama Caldera, and is characterized by its very narrow 610 mm-gauge.
The trolley train ascends the steep slope by switchbacking, moving forward and backward. It takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to travel 18 km and ascend 640 meters, transporting people involved in the control works, as well as construction materials, equipment and so on. In particular, the section of track at Kambadaira which ascends 200 m in one go and has an 18-step continuous switchback is noteworthy as being Japan's longest series of a switchback.
This track has played a key role in sabo works. Even now, it transports workers and materials every day during a construction period, serving as a symbol of Tateyama sabo.
History of the Erosion Control Works Service Train in Tateyama
Construction of the erosion control works service train began in 1926 and completed in 1929 when an 11.7 km-track was opened, connecting Senjugahara and Kambadaira on the way. During WWII, sabo construction was suspended and the track was left unused. After WWII, the construcion with the continuous 18-step switchback which was not yet started on the track was completed in 1965. In 2006, the premise of the track was registered as one of National Registered Monuments.
< History of Kambadaira Switchback >
An incline was used as a transport from 1930 to 1944.
A cableway was used from 1951 to 1964.
Construction of the switchback was completed in 1965. (a photo taken in 2006)
Trolley train crossing Gusutani Bridge
18-step switchback in Kambadaira
