Teen Photographer Champions Local Railway Through Art
In the heart of Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, a 14-year-old photographer is leveraging his artistic talents to shine a spotlight on a vital local artery: the JR Koumi Line. Fuju Nagao, a passionate second-year junior high school student, is hosting his inaugural solo exhibition with a powerful underlying mission – to save the beloved train line from its current financial struggles. The exhibition, held at the Izumi Onsen Health Center in Hokuto City, aims to awaken a broader appreciation for the Koumi Line’s unique charms, hoping that this initiative by a young enthusiast will galvanize adults into action for regional revitalization.
The Scenic Route of the JR Koumi Line
The JR Koumi Line, a scenic highland railway, connects Kobuchizawa Station in Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture, with Komoro Station in Komoro City, Nagano Prefecture. This remarkable line holds the distinction of traversing the highest point of any Japan Railways (JR) group line, reaching an impressive altitude of 1,375 meters above sea level. The journey along this route offers breathtaking vistas, including the majestic Yatsugatake mountains, a prominent range known for its stunning natural beauty.
Furthermore, the Koumi Line serves as a gateway to significant scientific and cultural landmarks. It passes by the Nobeyama Radio Observatory in Minamimaki Village, Nagano Prefecture, a crucial facility operated by the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan. This observatory gained international recognition as a key filming location for the latest installment of the globally popular “Detective Conan” anime film series, highlighting the line’s connection to contemporary culture.
Facing the Challenge of Declining Ridership
Despite its scenic beauty and cultural relevance, the JR Koumi Line is grappling with significant financial deficits. A combination of factors, including a declining regional population and a steady decrease in daily ridership, has put immense pressure on the line’s operational viability. The prospect of sections of this cherished railway facing closure weighs heavily on the minds of many, including Fuju Nagao.
A Photographer’s Pledge to Preserve a Legacy
Fuju, who proudly describes himself as a “railway nerd for 12 years,” has developed a profound concern for the potential loss of the Koumi Line. This deep-seated worry has been the driving force behind his decision to organize his first solo photography exhibition. The exhibition is a testament to his dedication and a heartfelt plea for the preservation of a railway that is deeply interwoven with the fabric of local life.
Capturing the Soul of the Koumi Line
The exhibition showcases approximately 30 carefully curated works, each designed to illustrate the integral role the Koumi Line plays within its surrounding communities. Fuju’s lens has captured the trains as they traverse through the ever-changing seasonal landscapes, from the delicate beauty of cherry blossoms in bloom to the serene tranquility of snowy winter scenes. His photographs also depict the human element, featuring passengers patiently waiting for their journeys and the picturesque fields of local specialty lettuce, a regional agricultural pride.
One particularly poignant photograph, depicting a family awaiting a train at the secluded Saku-Hirose Station in Minamimaki, garnered significant recognition by winning an award in a photography contest. This image, like many others in the exhibition, speaks volumes about the quiet dignity and enduring appeal of life connected by this rural railway.
From Childhood Fascination to Artistic Advocacy
Fuju’s fascination with trains dates back to his early childhood, sparked by the captivating allure of a model railroad display. His serious engagement with photography began in 2023, a year after he relocated from Yokohama to Hokuto. He participated in a photography class during an event at JR Kiyosato Station, a pivotal moment that ignited his passion for capturing the world through his camera. Since then, he has dedicated his holidays to meticulously documenting the picturesque scenery along the Koumi Line, armed with an SLR camera. His initial efforts to share his work, by selling some of his photographs as postcards, paved the way for the encouragement he received to hold a solo exhibition.
Reflecting on his endeavor, Fuju shared his aspirations: “This year marks the 90th anniversary of the line’s full operation. I want to continue taking pictures (of the train line) so that not only tourists but also locals can appreciate its charm.”
The exhibition is open to the public and runs until December 23rd, with admission being free. This initiative by a young artist offers a compelling opportunity for the community and visitors alike to connect with the enduring spirit of the JR Koumi Line and consider its future.
