This was an unexpected highlight of our families Japan visit.
I had thought my little one would enjoy it but we were not prepared for the sheer breadth and variety of the display.
There were multiple real trains and coaches to see and learn about. The museum with all the various parts of the trains on display and with simple demonstrations for the kids was a delight. The model trains sections where you can pilot the various trains and see on a screen the world from there model trains perspective was something all kids and adults wanted to have a go at. There is a basic cafe and even a toddler play area here.
The highlight however has to be the multitudes of steam engines parked in a circle which get actual running and demonstration in front of the visitors. In this day and age the kids really enjoyed the steam engines in all their glory.
Ps. The kids will love the transforming train toys ( shinkalion) at the gift shop.
A Must visit when in Kyoto.
Very wide variety of exhibits of good quality, almost all of which are interactive. 4-car Series 0 Shinkansen set is exhibited, as well as several locomotives and a turntable (which you can see in action if you ride the steam train on the last time slot). You could easily spend up to four hours here for a low price with re-entry permitted, and it is very accessible. Highly recommended!
Great so much to see and do, every button and lever you ever wished to press or pull to do with trains. Steam trains outside, and a great view of the junction from the roof. The biggest model railway I have ever seen. My two boys(24 & 21!!) had a fantastic time.
This place is so cool. There are trains of all eras on display, both inside and outside. The ability to get close-up views of the trains while learning about the history of everything rail-related was fantastic. The intact circular switch yard was great to see, along with the functional steam engine. My kids and I all had a wonderful experience during our visit.
I cannot say enough good things about this place, it is absolutely enormous and covers every facet of trains, including many you would not even think about! Obviously they have the trains themselves but also discusses signage and rules, and components of the trains, plus the different lines, and even though just a very small portion is in English, I was still able to get a good feel for it. If everything was readable I would probably spend an entire day or more there!
