Kyoto Railway Museum

Name: Kyoto Railway Museum
Address: Kankijicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8835, Japan
Rating: 4.5

4.5 (200)・Tourist Attraction・Museum・Point Of Interest・Establishment

The Kyoto Railway Museum is a treasure trove for train enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. Located near Umekoji Park, this expansive museum showcases Japan’s rich railway heritage. Inside, you'll find an impressive collection of locomotives, from steam engines to modern bullet trains, all beautifully preserved.

One of the standout features is the roundhouse, where you can see steam engines up close and even witness live demonstrations of these majestic machines in action. The museum's interactive exhibits allow visitors to learn about the mechanics of trains and the history of rail travel in Japan. There's also a fascinating diorama that brings miniature trains to life, delighting both kids and adults.

The museum isn’t just about looking; it's about experiencing. Visitors can step into historical train cars, sit in the driver’s seat, and even try their hand at a train simulator. The educational displays provide insights into the technological advancements and the crucial role trains have played in Japan’s development.

For families, Kyoto Railway Museum offers a kids’ area with hands-on activities that make learning fun. With its blend of history, technology, and interactive fun, the Kyoto Railway Museum offers a captivating journey through the world of trains, making it a must-visit in Kyoto.

Hours:

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Closed:

Wednesdays

Year-end through New Year season (December 30 to January 1)

Available:

All year (Except Wednesdays and Year-end through the New Year season)

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Admission Fee:

1,500 yen (General admission: 18 years and older)

1,300 yen (University and high school students)

500 yen (Junior high and elementary school students)

200 yen (Children: 3 years and older)

Website

www.kyotorailwaymuseum.jp

The area

Address

Kankijicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8835, Japan

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What other travelers are saying about Kyoto Railway Museum

Fun fun fun for the kids who love their trains! So many different display and you only get this in Japan! All the era of trains on display, interactive play, even if you don’t understand Japanese it was fun enough for the kids. There is a souvenir shop at the exit, it was really crowded!

Sharon

Nov 28, 2024

Fantastic spot for railway enthusiasts! Lots of cool roller stock and a gigantic model layout which they run a few times a day. Interior of quite a few trains are accessible too.

Eric Wang

Nov 20, 2024

It's a great place for young children and adult rail fans. There are so much information you can get if you really spend time. Many kids friendly activities and impressive collection of trains. If you pay extra, there is a train ride, and driving simulation game. There is a cafe and price looks very reasonable but we did not try the food. If you want to also visit the aquarium there are combo tickets you can purchase as well.

Chun Yi Chan

Sep 1, 2024

A fantastic experience! This massive museum is full of lots of interactive exhibits. Get up close to steam trains, old and newer Shinkansen and local trains. Very informative displays. There is an outdoor area where it's like a real Thomas the Tank Engine. A roundhouse full of steam engines.! There's a chance to ride as steam engine. You could easily stay all day and there is a restaurant there to refuel. A minimum of 2 hours is needed to see the museum, and that's rushing it. We left and went back in later, just show your ticket.

Steph Zeier

Nov 10, 2024

We had a blast here. There is so much to see, and so many of the exhibits are interactive. Many exhibits have QR codes that you can scan and get descriptions in English, both written and narrated. Do note that reading these will make your time spent here longer...we spent roughly 3 hours exploring without even reading all of the exhibition descriptions. Also be wary that going on a weekday means you will likely share the space with a lot of school children on field trips.