JR West Builds World's First 3D-Printed Train Station in Japan
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Hatsushima Station (3D-printed) |
| Location | Arida City, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan |
| Constructed By | West Japan Railway Company (JR West) |
| Construction Partner | Serendix (3D construction technology firm) |
| Original Station Built | 1948 (wooden structure) |
| Assembly Time | Under 6 hours (completed overnight between last and first train) |
| Prefab Production Time | 7 days (3D-printed and reinforced with concrete in Kumamoto Prefecture) |
| Transport Distance | 804 km (from Kyushu Island to Arida) |
| Station Size | Just over 100 square feet |
| Passenger Traffic | ~530 passengers/day (automated since 2018) |
| Train Frequency | 1-3 times per hour |
| Expected Opening | July 2025 (final installations ongoing) |
| Cost & Time Savings | 50% cost reduction vs. traditional construction; saves over 2 months |
| Key Benefits | Labor reduction, minimal service disruption, addresses workforce shortages, potential for rural infrastructure development |
| Public Attention | Dozens of locals witnessed construction; global media coverage for speed and innovation |