Introduction

When night falls in Japan, some travelers may find themselves caught in a predicament: waking up at Otsuki Station, an infamous zetsubo no eki, or "station of despair." Unlike what the title suggests, Otsuki isn’t a hazardous place; it's simply the end of the line on the Chuo Rapid Line, which starts in the bustling areas of Tokyo before winding its way into the quieter regions of Yamanashi Prefecture.

The reason it’s dubbed a station of despair? Imagine a night out in Tokyo, filled with drinks and revelry, only to miss your stop and wake up in a remote area with no train service until dawn. Otsuki Station, located a mere two-hour ride from Tokyo, serves this fate for late-night partiers who unintentionally find themselves stranded.

The Holiday Season and Increased Chances of Stranding

As the holiday season approaches, with its festive parties and late-night celebrations, the chances of ending up in Otsuki only increase. In a bid to experience this cold reality, Japanese-language reporter Ahiruneko decided to visit Otsuki Station on a chilly evening at 9:40 p.m., hoping to explore what options are available for those who might need to stay overnight.

The Experience of Arriving at Otsuki Station

Upon arrival, the first shock was the drop in temperature. Nestled near Mount Fuji, Otsuki experiences colder winters compared to its urban counterparts. A tip for travelers: dress warmly or risk spending an uncomfortable night. The station itself boasts a rustic charm, designed like a cozy log cabin, but looks can be deceiving.

Ahiruneko stepped inside to discover a waiting room equipped with seating, local tourism brochures, and even gacha capsule toy machines. While inviting, the waiting area closes at midnight, leaving stranded visitors with limited options. Late-night Otsuki offers a stark contrast to Tokyo's vibrant nightlife, with early to bed, early to rise vibes dominating the atmosphere.

Limited Options for Late-Night Visitors

Izakaya (Japanese pubs) dot the area, but many shutter by midnight, which complicates the search for a warm drink if you're caught off-guard. The local branch of chain pub Shoya closes as early as 10 p.m., making it crucial to plan ahead. Even 24-hour convenience stores are a rarity, leaving few safe havens for overnight stays.

After a disappointing search for a familiar Daily Yamazaki convenience store—now a mini-gym—Ahiruneko eventually found solace in a Lawson convenience store with an eat-in area. The limited seating, however, only compounds the struggle for overnight adventurers. The nearby 7-Eleven might offer warmth and snacks, but lacks any dining area.

Alternative Solutions for Comfort

For those seeking a budget-friendly alternative, Ahiruneko discovered Big Echo, a karaoke parlor open all night. While tempting to sing your heart out, it's a viable option to rent a room and catch some desperate Zs in relative comfort.

Best Solutions to Avoid Stranding

Perhaps the best solution to avoid the uncomfortable situation altogether is to book a room at the Toyoko Inn, a recently opened budget hotel about a ten-minute walk from the station. With a large capacity for such a small town, there’s speculation it was built with the station of despair's late-night clientele in mind. Be warned, though: reservations may be hard to come by during peak seasons like the New Year celebrations, and prices could soar.

Conclusion

In a fortunate twist, Ahiruneko's adventure was timed perfectly to catch the last train home. However, many aren’t so lucky, and navigating a "station of despair" can be daunting. To steer clear of an uncomfortable overnight experience, always check train schedules, drink responsibly, and know your options in case of an emergency.

So, whether you're a tourist or a local planning a night out, make sure to have a strategy to avoid the unwanted surprise of waking up in Otsuki. Happy travels, and remember to keep warm!