Senmō Main Line

Senmō Main Line
Senmō Main Line Shiretoko rapid train
Overview
Native name釧網本線
StatusOperational
OwnerJR Hokkaido
LocaleHokkaido, Japan
Termini
Stations23
Service
TypeHeavy rail
Operator(s)Hokkaido Railway Company
Rolling stockH100 series DEMUs
History
Opened1924
1931 (fully)
Technical
Line length166.2 km (103.3 mi)
Number of tracksEntire line single tracked
CharacterRural
Track gauge1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in)
ElectrificationNone
Operating speed80 km/h (50 mph)
Route map

The Senmō Main Line (釧網本線, Senmō-honsen) is a Japanese railway line in Hokkaido, operated by Hokkaido Railway Company (JR Hokkaido), between Higashi-Kushiro Station in Kushiro and Abashiri Station in Abashiri. The name comes from Kushiro (釧路) and Abashiri (網走). In 2008, a dual-mode vehicle was tested on parts of the line.

On 19 November 2016, JR Hokkaido's President announced plans to rationalise its network by up to 1,237 km, or ~50% of the current network, including the proposed conversion of the Senmo Main Line to third-sector operation; if local governments are not agreeable, the line may face closure.