Japan railway stations undergo redevelopment and gate relocation

Infrastructure projects are underway at two Japanese railway stations to improve passenger flow and community spaces.

At Kita-Toda Station on the JR Saikyo Line, redevelopment of the West Exit is scheduled for completion on September 30, 2026. The project will introduce a “Traffic Plaza” featuring a roofed area for buses and taxis, and an “Exchange Plaza” equipped with lawns, wood decks, and a stage for events. As part of the transition, the Hidakaya Kita-Toda branch and the station's public toilets will be closed or removed.

Separately, JR West has announced relocation work for seven automatic ticket gates at Kanazawa Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen line, starting September 25. The gates will be moved approximately five meters toward the concourse to alleviate congestion during peak periods such as the New Year holidays. The relocation is expected to be completed by December 16, with plans to add an additional ticket gate next fiscal year to further reduce crowding.