Kyoto Railway Museum

The Kyoto Railway Museum opened in 2016 following the renovation of the Umekoji Steam Locomotive Museum, which had been known as a center for steam locomotives since opening in 1972. Based on the concept of a railway cultural hub that grows alongside the local community, it is one of Japan’s largest railway museums, where visitors can learn about railway history, safety, and technology through surprising and inspiring hands-on experiences.

The museum houses and displays a total of 53 railway vehicles on the first floor, including steam locomotives inherited from the Umekoji Steam Locomotive Museum. The many historically significant vehicles include the Class C62 steam locomotive, one of the largest operated by Japanese National Railways and used to pull limited express trains after World War II; the original 0 Series Shinkansen; and the 500 Series Shinkansen, which was listed in the Guinness Book of Records for operating commercial services at 186 mph.

On the second floor of the main building, staff operate model trains at approximately 1:80 scale on a massive railway diorama measuring about 98 feet wide and 33 feet deep. The diorama faithfully recreates not only cityscapes and scenery but also railway facilities such as a rail yard, allowing visitors to learn about railway operating systems while watching the model trains run. The same floor also features a driving simulator like those used to train actual train drivers, as well as hands-on exhibits on safety-control systems such as ATS and ATC.

The outdoor fan-shaped roundhouse is another highlight. This distinctive structure houses 20 steam locomotives maintained as operational exhibits, an impressive sight even for visitors who are not railway enthusiasts. Rides on the ever-popular SL Steam, a favorite since the days of the Umekoji Steam Locomotive Museum, are also available. Tickets are issued for specific times, so it is best to purchase one in advance based on your schedule.