■Address: Higashimachi Sawai, Midori City, Gunma Prefecture
■Subjects that can be photographed: Autumn leaves
■Suggested season: Autumn
■Recommended time: Noon
■Parking: None
■Admission fee: None
■Limit on admission time: No
■Toilets: None
Sōri Station, located on the border between Gunma and Tochigi Prefectures, is known as a particularly beautiful photography spot for autumn foliage along the Watase Valley Railway.In autumn, the station is enveloped by maple trees, and the contrast between the valley's autumn colors and the train viewed from the platform is truly spectacular. The sight of the orange train slowly passing through the tunnel of autumn leaves stretching out on both sides of the tracks is an irresistible moment for photography enthusiasts. In the morning, soft light filters through, highlighting the red of the train body and the colors of the autumn leaves.Afternoon light tends to be backlit, offering opportunities for dramatic silhouette shots. The station building's rustic atmosphere, combined with the sound of the train echoing through the mountains, creates a scene reminiscent of a scene from a Showa-era film. The peak autumn foliage season is typically from early to mid-November. To experience the unique blend of “railway × natural beauty” that only the Watarase Valley Railway offers, Sawairi Station is truly the recommended spot for that perfect shot.
