Japan Builds World’s First 3D-Printed Train Station in Record Time

In a remarkable engineering feat, West Japan Railway Company (JR West) has constructed the world’s first 3D-printed train station, assembling it in under six hours in Arida City, Wakayama Prefecture. Named Hatsushima Station, the new structure replaces an aging wooden facility dating back to 1948 and demonstrates the potential of 3D printing to revolutionize public infrastructure. Built using prefabricated components produced by Serendix, a Japanese construction technology firm, this project not only cut construction time from months to hours but also promises cost-effectiveness, labor reduction, and minimal service disruption. With Japan facing an aging population and workforce shortages, such innovative projects may play a crucial role in reshaping rural infrastructure development.

Key Highlights of the 3D-Printed Station Project

Project Overview

• Location: Arida City, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan.
• Station Name: Hatsushima Station.
• Constructed By: West Japan Railway Company (JR West).
• Construction Partner: Serendix, a 3D construction technology firm.

Construction Milestones

• The entire station was assembled in under six hours.
• Construction started after the final train at 11:57 PM and finished before the first train at 5:45 AM the next day.
• Prefabricated components were 3D-printed and reinforced with concrete over 7 days at a factory in Kumamoto Prefecture.

Transport and Assembly

• Components transported 804 km by road from Kyushu Island to Arida.
• Assembled using cranes; each segment was fitted precisely into place overnight.
• The structure measures just over 100 square feet.

Station Background

• The original station building was built in 1948.
• Hatsushima Station is automated since 2018 and serves approximately 530 passengers per day.
• Train services operate 1–3 times per hour on a modest line.

Ongoing Work

• While structural assembly is complete, final installations like ticket machines and IC card readers are ongoing.
• Station opening scheduled for July 2025.

Innovation and Impact

• Traditional construction would have taken over two months and double the cost.
• Minimizes disruption to train operations by allowing overnight assembly.
• Reduces need for labor and staffing—addressing issues related to Japan’s aging population and shrinking workforce.
• Highlights future potential of 3D printing in remote and rural infrastructure development.

Public Reaction

• Dozens of curious locals gathered to witness the construction.
• The project received widespread media attention for its technological innovation and speed.