The Disused Shimizusawa Thermal Power Plant

The Shimizusawa Thermal Power Plant was built in 1926 and served as a power supply to various coal-mines in the surrounding area. Yubari was considered a coal capital in Japan, and at the peak of the city’s coal mining industry it boasted a population of over 115,000, many of whom were either miners or their families. The industry started to dry up though during the next three decades and the last of the city’s coal-mines closed its doors in 1990 after an underground explosion that resulted in a large fire. This in turn meant the Shimizusawa Power Plant had little reason to stay open, and it ceased operations in 1991. Soon after this up to 75% of the plant was demolished, the control rooms however still remain standing.

The Disused Shimizusawa Thermal Power Plant

The Disused Shimizusawa Thermal Power Plant

An organization called the Shimizusawa Project which is dedicated to the preservation of Yubari’s industrial heritage took control of the remaining buildings at the power plant, and in 2011 decided to allow guided tours around the facility. They also hold art exhibitions on site to promote an interest in its history.

The Disused Shimizusawa Thermal Power Plant

Visitors can walk around the semi abandoned power plant control rooms and see the crumbling building up close along with an array of control tables and switchboards from a bygone era. As it is located outside of Yubari City, access is best by private car, but also accessible via train. When you arrive at the main car park you must sign your name at the reception building before receiving a safety briefing, after that you are allowed to enter the building with the use of a safety helmet. Once inside, you are free to wander around and take photographs of this rather unusual but interesting tourist site at your leisure.

The Disused Shimizusawa Thermal Power Plant

Some areas are out of bounds - it is essential you stay out of these parts as they can be very unstable and extremely dangerous. Stick to the clearly sign-posted path though and you will find plenty of interesting sights. Suitable footwear is recommended, sturdy sneakers or walking boots are best, high heels or sandals are an absolute no-go, due to uneven floors and staircases.

The Disused Shimizusawa Thermal Power Plant

Opening times are Monday to Saturday 10:00 to 12:00 and 13:00 to 16:00.
Entrance is free, but you must sign in and listen to a brief run down on safety before entering. Car parking is available.

To access the Power Plant by car, from Yubari City take Route 38 towards Shimizusawa, turn on to Route 452, cross the rail tracks and take the third turning of the right, roughly 200 meters down the road you take a left turning which will take you down to the Power Plant. You can park at the reception area which is inside a wooden hut.

The nearest train station is Shimizusawa Station on the Sekisho Line, from where you need to walk 20 minutes. When you come out of the station turn right and walk straight until you hit Route 452, turn left and take the second turning on the right, roughly 200 meters down the road you take a left turn, which will take you down to the building.

旧北炭清水沢火力発電所

北海道夕張市清水沢清栄町

0123577463

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