For more than half a century, the Tadami Line has been a means of transportation for local residents, connecting the prefectures of Fukushima and neighboring Niigata.
The 135.2-kilometer line between Fukushima Prefecture's Aizuwakamatsu Station and Koide Station in Niigata Prefecture started operations in August 1971. But the line was partially suspended between Tadami and Aizukawaguchi stations in July 2011 due to damage from heavy rain. More than a decade later, it is slated to resume operations next year.
Former Tadami Mayor Noboru Onuma, 84, remembers the festive atmosphere on the first day of operations 50 years ago.