The Kyoto Railway Museum is a must-visit attraction for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This fascinating museum, located in Kyoto, Japan, showcases the country’s rich railway history and offers visitors an immersive experience. From steam locomotives to modern bullet trains, the museum features an extensive collection of train exhibits that tell the story of Japan’s incredible railway journey. In this article, we’ll explore the Kyoto Railway Museum’s history, highlights, interactive experiences, and visitor information. All aboard!
The Kyoto Railway Museum has its roots in the Umekoji Steam Locomotive Museum, which opened in 1972. This original museum focused on preserving and showcasing Japan’s steam locomotive heritage, with 18 steam locomotives on display. In 2016, the museum underwent a significant transformation, becoming the Kyoto Railway Museum. Expanding its focus to include modern trains and railway technology, the new museum now offers a comprehensive look at Japan’s railway history.
Museum Highlights
A Glimpse into the Kyoto Railway Museum’s Exhibits
The Kyoto Railway Museum offers a captivating experience with exhibits that highlight Japan’s railway history. The steam locomotive collection, featuring the oldest Class 8620 locomotive, is a major attraction that showcases impressive machines from the past. The museum also displays modern trains, including the renowned Shinkansen or bullet train, allowing visitors to learn about their design, engineering, and impact on Japan’s transportation system. The popular Railway Diorama exhibit features a massive model train layout with detailed replicas of Japanese landscapes and train lines, illustrating the evolution of the country’s railway system. Finally, the outdoor promenade and turntable exhibit let visitors witness trains in action, providing a fascinating insight into railway operations.
Interactive Experiences
The Kyoto Railway Museum offers engaging interactive experiences for visitors. Train driving simulators provide a chance to control a high-speed bullet train or a classic steam locomotive, giving a thrilling insight into train operation. The museum also features miniature train rides, taking visitors on a short journey around the grounds and delighting people of all ages. Additionally, the Train Operation Workshop offers hands-on exhibits and expert guidance, allowing visitors to explore the technology and engineering behind these remarkable machines.
How to get there
To get to the Kyoto Railway Museum from Kyoto Station, you have a few options:
- Walk: It’s approximately a 20-minute walk from Kyoto Station to the museum. Head west from the station and follow the signs or use a map or GPS to guide you.
- Train: Take the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station to Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station. The museum is just a 5-minute walk from Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station.
- Bus: Board the Kyoto City Bus from Kyoto Station and alight at the “Umekoji-koen/Kyoto Railway Museum-mae” bus stop. The bus ride takes about 10 minutes, and the museum is a short walk from the bus stop.
The Kyoto Railway Museum offers a unique and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. With its fascinating exhibits, interactive experiences, and rich history, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in trains or Japanese history. So, why not hop on board and embark on a journey through Japan’s railway past, present, and future?
