Remembering Hirohiko Yokomi: The Ultimate Railway Otaku

Travel writer and celebrated manga storyteller Hirohiko Yokomi passed away from acute heart failure on Wednesday at the age of 63. This sad news was confirmed by Shogakukan, his publisher, on Friday.

Image via Hirohiko Yokomi's X/Twitter account

A Unique Legacy

Yokomi made a name for himself as the ultimate railway otaku, often credited for visiting every train station in Japan. He completed his remarkable journey in 2005, a monumental achievement that included:

• Visiting all JR train stations by 1995.
• Expanding to private railway stations.
• Totaling 9,843 train stations across Japan.

His incredible journey was not just personal; it became a part of his work as a storyteller.

The Story Behind the Manga

Hirohiko Yokomi worked alongside illustrator Naoe Kikuchi on the beloved manga series Tetsuko no Tabi, which ran from 2001 to 2006 and covered six volumes. The series recounts their travel adventures, highlighting Yokomi's expert guidance through Japan's railway landscape.

The saga continued with:

• Shin Tetsuko no Tabi: 2009-2013 (five volumes)
• Tetsuko no Tabi 3-Daime: 2016-2019 (four volumes)

Each iteration featured different artists but shared a common theme: a journey through Japan's railways guided by Yokomi himself.

In 2007, the stand-out manga inspired a 13-episode television anime series, further broadening its reach and influence.

A Fond Farewell

Following his passing, Shogakukan expressed their condolences, highlighting Yokomi's longstanding role in showcasing the wonders of Japanese railways. They stated:

"For many years, he served as a travel guide to introduce the charms of many railways from the viewpoint of the 'ultimate railway otaku' who visited every train station in Japan. For his many achievements, we express our deepest condolences."

As we remember Hirohiko Yokomi, his passion for travel and storytelling will leave a lasting imprint on fans and travelers alike.

Sources: Sunday GX, Comic Natalie