Images: Catch a Ride on the Chōshi Electric Railway

JR Chōshi Station is just under two hours by limited express train from Tokyo Station on the JR Sōbu Main Line.

A fishing boat unloads its catch at Chōshi Port.

A Chōden train speeds by a field of sunflowers.

Hand-written station names give Chōden a down-home feeling. Each name is accompanied by a thumbnail sketch of a local attraction.

Nure senbei comes in a variety of flavors. At ¥864 for a pack of 10, the crackers are not cheap, but the product is addictive and attracts many repeat customers.

Chōden’s other popular product is Mazui-bō. In typical Chōden fashion, the name of the crunchy snack is a humorous take on a famous national brand of snack food.

A station attendant sees the train off at Tokawa Station.

The windows convey a romantic atmosphere.

Tokawa Station’s weathered building has a flair all its own.

Every part of the railcars, right down to the wheels, is visible at the depot at Nakanochō Station.

An electric locomotive in the maintenance shed. Vintage parts and tools are also on display.

JR Sōbu Main Line trains connects to Chōden at Chōshi Station. Visitors unaware about the naming rights ploy may be surprised to learn that they have arrived at ”Never Give Up” Chōshi Station.

Station names are accompanied by humorous captions like at Kasagami-Kurohae, which displays felicitous phrases such as “on the up” and “going strong” for boosting the railway’s fortunes.

The Mediterranean-style station building at Inubō Station, with a shop selling Chōden branded merchandise.

Visitors can climb to the top of the Cape Inubō lighthouse.

Inubō Seaside Terrace, the newest Chōshi area attraction, is a great place for souvenir seekers.

The rooftop terrace at the observatory offers a 360-degree panorama and a 320-degree view of the horizon.

Older buildings line Isshin-dōri near Tokawa Station.

The Wosse 21 wholesale market adjoining Chōshi Port Tower houses several restaurants serving fresh seafood.