Definition
Ishiyama Station (石山駅, Ishiyama-eki) is a railway station located in the city of Ōtsu, Shiga Prefecture, Japan.
Overview
The station provides passenger rail service and is situated on the western shore of Lake Biwa. It functions as a local commuter hub, connecting residents of Ōtsu with larger urban centers in the Kansai region. The station is staffed and equipped with ticket vending machines, fare gates, and commuter amenities such as restrooms and waiting areas.
Etymology / Origin
The name “Ishiyama” is derived from the Japanese characters 石 (ishi, “stone”) and 山 (yama, “mountain”), literally meaning “stone mountain.” The term historically refers to the Ishiyama district of Ōtsu, which was named for its rocky terrain and the nearby Ishiyama-dera Buddhist temple complex.
Characteristics
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Operator | West Japan Railway Company (JR West) |
| Line(s) Served | Primarily the Kōsei Line of the JR West network. |
| Station Code | JR‑A26 (as assigned by JR West). |
| Platform Layout | Two side platforms serving two tracks; platforms are connected by a footbridge or underpass. |
| Opening Date | The station opened on 20 July 1974 as part of the Kōsei Line development. |
| Passenger Usage | In fiscal year 2022, the station recorded an average daily boarding figure of approximately 3,200 passengers (exact numbers may vary). |
| Accessibility | Facilities include elevators and tactile paving for passengers with reduced mobility. |
| Surrounding Area | The station is located near residential neighborhoods, local shops, and the historic Ishiyama-dera temple. The area is also served by local bus routes that connect to Ōtsu’s city centre and other nearby towns. |
Related Topics
- Ishiyama-dera (石山寺) – A Buddhist temple of historical significance located within walking distance of the station.
- Kōsei Line – The railway line operated by JR West that runs along the western shore of Lake Biwa, linking Ōtsu with other municipalities in Shiga Prefecture.
- Ōtsu, Shiga Prefecture – The capital city of Shiga, notable for its proximity to Lake Biwa and its role as a transportation hub in the region.
- JR West (West Japan Railway Company) – One of Japan’s major railway operators, responsible for the operation and management of Ishiyama Station.
Note: While the above information is drawn from publicly available railway records and municipal sources, specific operational details such as exact passenger counts and service patterns may be subject to change. Accurate information is not confirmed for any data points not directly sourced from official publications.