One of two stations located within the Seikan Tunnel, along with
Tappi-Kaitei Station, it served as an emergency escape point, and this role has not changed after its closure as a passenger station. By segmenting the undersea tunnel, in the event of a fire or other disaster, the stations provide safety equivalent to that of a much shorter tunnel. The effectiveness of the escape shafts located at the emergency stations is enhanced by exhaust fans that suck up smoke, television cameras to route passengers to safety, thermal (infrared) fire alarm systems, and water spray nozzles. Previously, the station contained a museum detailing the history and function of the tunnel and could be visited on special sightseeing tours. However, while Tappi-Kaitei remained as a museum until 2013, Yoshioka-Kaitei was closed to regular services on 17 March 2006 to make way for
Hokkaido Shinkansen preparations. A special
781 series Doraemon-themed train then started running on 15 July 2006 to the station, which staged a exhibition. This service continued until 27 August 2006, when the station was shut down and used as storage space for Hokkaido Shinkansen building materials. == History ==