Kyoto Railway Museum – Explore Japan’s Rich Railway History

The Kyoto Railway Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japan's rich railway history, offering a comprehensive and interactive experience that spans over 130 years of train development. Located near Kyoto Station, this museum is a treasure trove of railway technology and history.

Location and Access

The Kyoto Railway Museum is conveniently situated in Shimogyō-ku, Kyoto, making it easily accessible for visitors. It is approximately 15-20 minutes on foot from Kyoto Station, or a short 3-minute walk from Umekōji-Kyōtonishi Station. Local bus services, including routes 86, 88, 103, 104, and 110, also provide easy access to the museum.

Exhibition Areas

The museum is divided into several exhibition areas, each offering a unique perspective on Japan's railway history.

Main Hall

The Main Hall is a three-story building that houses a wide range of exhibits, including over 50 retired trains. Here, visitors can explore everything from classic steam locomotives to modern electric trains and Shinkansen bullet trains. The hall also features railway uniforms, tools, and other historical items.

Roundhouse

The 1914 roundhouse is an Important Cultural Property and one of the oldest reinforced-concrete car sheds in Japan. It showcases Japan's largest collection of well-preserved steam locomotives and offers visitors the opportunity to observe real-time maintenance work through windows.

Former Nijo Station

This historic two-story structure was originally part of Nijō Station in Kyoto and now serves as the entrance building to the museum, housing the museum shop.

Interactive Exhibits

One of the standout features of the Kyoto Railway Museum is its array of interactive exhibits, designed to engage visitors of all ages.

Train Driving Simulators

Visitors can experience the thrill of driving a train using simulators that are based on the same models used for training actual drivers. These simulators allow both adults and children to drive along local or Shinkansen routes, complete with realistic controls and the need to manage speed and braking.

Railway Facilities and Vehicle Structures

In the Railway Facilities section, visitors can operate models of railway traffic signals and changing tracks. The Vehicle Structures section offers hands-on experiences, such as understanding how train cars are coupled together and how their wheels move smoothly over the tracks.

Diorama and Miniature City

The museum features one of Japan's largest dioramas, where miniature trains are controlled by skilled operators. This exhibit provides a fascinating glimpse into the operational systems of railways, complete with cameras mounted on the front of the trains to simulate the driving experience.

Real Trains on Display

The museum boasts an impressive collection of 53 real train cars, spanning over 130 years of Japanese railway history. Highlights include:

• 0-Class (Zero) Shinkansen: The first public Shinkansen that started service in 1964, now fully preserved and open for visitors to board.
• JR West 500 series Shinkansen: A modern example of Japan's high-speed rail technology.
• Retired Raicho Limited Express Train: A train that used to travel between Osaka, Kyoto, and Kanazawa.
• Steam Locomotives: Including the historic "Yoshitsune," the first steam locomotive imported from the USA.

Steam Locomotive Ride

For an additional fee of 300 yen, visitors can take a 10-minute ride on a steam train that travels a 1-kilometer route. This ride offers a nostalgic experience, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenery of nearby Umekoji Park.

Observation Deck and Restaurant

The museum's second floor features an observation deck and a restaurant, both offering nice views of the passing trains along the JR Kyoto Line and Tokaido Shinkansen. The restaurant is a great place to enjoy a meal while watching the trains.

Tickets and Opening Information

The museum is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with no admission after 4:30 p.m. It is closed every Wednesday, except for public holidays. Ticket prices are as follows:

• Adults: 1,200 yen
• University and high school students: 1,000 yen
• Elementary school students: 500 yen
• Children (3 years and older): 200 yen
  There is a 10% discount for JR West Pass holders.

Special Features

• Train Restaurant: Visitors can enjoy a delicious Eki-Bento box at the museum's restaurant.
• Roof Terrace: The roof terrace offers a great spot for train spotters to view bullet and local trains approaching Kyoto Station, although it may be closed in bad weather.
• Nijo Station Building: The picturesque, old-fashioned Nijo Station Building, relocated from nearby Nijo Station, adds a touch of history to the museum's entrance.