SIGHTSEEING

A Journey Through Time: Exploring the Kyoto Railway Museum

2023.10.26

A Glimpse into the World of Trains: Kyoto Railway Museum

Nestled in Umekoji, Kyoto, the Kyoto Railway Museum is a hub of railway culture, bringing together an impressive collection of 54 train cars, ranging from steam locomotives to Shinkansen. As the largest railway museum in Japan, it offers a unique opportunity to dive deep into the history, safety, and technology of railways through an array of awe-inspiring and moving experiences.

A Treasure Trove of Trains: From Steam Locomotives to Shinkansen

The museum is home to 54 train cars, including those previously stored and displayed at the Umekoji Steam Locomotive Museum. Among the exhibits, you will find historically significant trains such as the first car of the 0 series Shinkansen, the 500 series Shinkansen which achieved commercial operation at speeds of 300 km/h and is featured in the Guinness Book of Records, and the C62 class steam locomotive, one of the largest in Japan, which pulled express trains after World War II.

Interactive Learning: See, Touch, and Experience

See

The museum showcases a vast collection of valuable trains with historical significance, including the first car of the 0 series Shinkansen, the 500 series Shinkansen, and Japan’s largest C62 class steam locomotive. By checking the location and types of trains in advance, visitors can enhance their experience and explore the museum with ease.

Touch
The museum features sections that replicate the facilities of train stations from the early Showa period and the present day. Visitors can learn about the different roles of stations then and now, as well as about station work, all while enjoying the nostalgic atmosphere.

Experience
Back by popular demand from the Umekoji Steam Locomotive Museum, visitors can ride in passenger cars pulled by a real steam locomotive on the “SL Steam” experience. During the 1 km round trip, you can immerse yourself in the nostalgic journey of traveling by steam locomotive.

Practical Information & Access

Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:30 PM)
Access:
  – 2 minutes on foot from Sagano Line “Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station”
  – 20 minutes on foot from JR “Kyoto Station” Central Exit
  – From the North Exit bus stop in front of JR “Kyoto Station”, take a bus to “Umekoji Park/JR Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station” or “Umekoji Park/Kyoto Railway Museum”
  – 15 minutes on foot from JR Kyoto Line “Nishioji Station”

[Google Map]

For more information, please visit the [official website]

Come explore the world of trains at the Kyoto Railway Museum and experience the rich history and technology of Japan’s railways like never before!