HIGASHIIZU, Shizuoka -- Local railway operator Izukyu Co. unveiled a 39-character promotional sub-name for Izu-Hokkawa Station here on Feb. 5, which the firm claims may be the longest in Japan.

The station's new sub-name translates to, "The station where you eat Hokkawa ajizushi (horse mackerel sushi), take an open-air Kuroneiwa bath by the waves, and encounter the Moon Road," the last part referring to the path of light reflected by the moon on the ocean surface. A ceremony was held the same day to celebrate the unique, travel narrative-like title, which reflects the pride of the port community of about 200 where the station is located and promotes the area's attractions.

Hokkawa Onsen's inn association secured the naming rights for two years. At the unveiling ceremony, numerous locals involved in the project gathered to celebrate. Junji Kondo, head of the inn association, stood by the platform's new sign and said, "If the tourists alighting at the station are surprised, it will be a success."

This marks the sixth sub-name introduced by Ito, Shizuoka Prefecture-based Izukyu since the program began in April 2024.

(Japanese original by Koji Wakai, Ito Local Bureau)