Located in the Mojiko Retro District, this railroad museum is housed in a Meiji-era red brick building that was the former headquarters of Kyushu Railway Company.
The museum exhibits old rolling stock, uniforms of past station staff, and railroad equipment, and is fun not only for railroad fans but also for the whole family.
The main building introduces the history of railroads in Kyushu. A coach from the Meiji era has been restored, and puppets of passengers and conductors, as well as sound effects, provide a taste of the atmosphere of that era. The best activity is the driving simulator, which allows visitors to experience driving in the scenery of the actual route from JR Mojiko Station. Visitors can simulate driving in the driver's cab of a suburban train. The "Tsubame Corner" is also popular among railroad fans.
In the "Miniature Train Park," five mini trains currently in service on JR Kyushu lines, including "Tsubame," "Kamome," and "Sonic," run. Japan's first mini railroad allows visitors to experience driving on a full-scale track equipped with signals, etc. (Up to three persons can ride in each car at 300 yen per vehicle).
Highlights
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Visitors can enjoy learning about the history of railroads in Kyushu.
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There is also an extensive hands-on corner with driving simulations and miniature trains.
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Visitors can see trains up close.
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The exhibits are designed to satisfy both railroad fans and non-fans.
