Harajuku station, the symbol of youth culture and one of the most visited landmarks in Tokyo, has fulfilled its duty on March 21st, 2020.
Oldest wooden structured railway station in Tokyo
I am sure a most of you are familiar with this station as it is one of the most visited tourist spots in Tokyo area.
Harajuku station is the oldest wooden structured railway station in Tokyo, built in 1924. Since then, it has been serving approximately 70 thousand passengers each day on the JR Yamanote Line.
While many related Harajuku to youth culture and latest trends, Harajuku station actually has a historic significance in having a hidden platform that was made especially for the imperial family in Taisho era.
Millions of tourists from all over the world visit each year and tourists taking photos of the station are sighted at all times. However, with the increasing number of users and inbound tourists, JR has built a new building next to Harajuku station to alleviate overcrowding.
More platforms and new exits
Current Harajuku station. (photo retrieved from SankeiBiz, 2020)
The new building was opened and started operation on March 21st, 2020. It is a two-storied modern building with glass windows, located on the left of the old structure. The new building is a few times more spacious constructed with two platforms. The newly built ”west exit” allows immediate access to Meiji Shrine to ease congestion during New Year.
Moreover, coffee shops and other retails can also be found inside the statoin.
With the renovation of Harajuku station, JR has announced the demolish of the old structure after the Olympics.
