On the afternoon of July 28, a hole was discovered in the tracks inside JR Uenohoro Station.

As a result, 14 trains, including the Rapid Airport service, were canceled.

Around 12:50 PM on the 28th, a sinkhole was found on the tracks within JR Chitose Line’s Uenohoro Station.

This incident rendered one of the station’s three tracks unusable, leading to the cancellation of 14 trains, including 12 Rapid Airport services, and causing delays for some trains, affecting approximately 4,000 passengers.

According to JR Hokkaido, the sinkhole measured approximately 50 cm in length, 60 cm in width, and 150 cm in depth.

Repair work was conducted to fill the sinkhole, and track operations resumed around 3:30 PM.

JR Hokkaido is investigating the cause of the sinkhole.

JR Uenohoro Station

JR Uenohoro Station (上之幌駅) is a small railway station located in Hokkaido, Japan, serving the local community along the Sekihoku Main Line. Opened in 1929, the station was once more active but has seen reduced use over time due to declining population. Today, it remains a quiet stop surrounded by Hokkaido’s scenic landscapes, reflecting the region’s rural charm.

Rapid Airport service

Rapid Airport Service is a transportation company that provides shuttle and private transfer services, primarily serving travelers to and from airports. Founded to offer convenient, reliable, and efficient transit solutions, it has become a popular choice for passengers seeking hassle-free airport connections. While its exact founding history is unclear, it operates in various locations, often partnering with hotels and airlines to streamline travel logistics.

JR Chitose Line

The **JR Chitose Line** is a railway line in Hokkaido, Japan, operated by JR Hokkaido, connecting Numanohata Station in Chitose to Minami-Chitose Station. Opened in 1926, it serves as a vital link between New Chitose Airport and Sapporo, facilitating tourism and transportation. The line also provides access to popular destinations like Lake Shikotsu and supports freight services to the industrial areas of Chitose.

JR Hokkaido

JR Hokkaido (Hokkaido Railway Company) is a major railway operator in Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido, established in 1987 after the privatization of Japanese National Railways. It manages key rail lines, including the Hokkaido Shinkansen, which connects Hokkaido to Honshu via the Seikan Tunnel. The company plays a vital role in regional transport, supporting tourism and local economies while preserving Hokkaido’s unique rail heritage.