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SL Yamaguchi

The steam locomotive connecting Shin-Yamaguchi and Tsuwano.

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Steam locomotives (SL) disappeared as the railway became modernized. In 1979, it came back to Yamaguchi Line and has been running as a temporary express tour train.

From Shin-Yamaguchi Station, it goes through Yuda Onsen, Nagatokyo Gorge, arriving at “San-in’s Little Kyoto,” Tsuwano in Shimane. It covers 62.9km in almost 2 hours, blowing the whistle along the nostalgic journey.

The running locomotives are two kinds - C57 #1, nicknamed “Lady” for its beautiful form, and Degoichi or D51 #200 (may be changed for tests and repairs).

The passenger cars were renewed in 2017. The old-fashioned car design was restored to match that of the height of the SL era in the early-Showa-period style. Inside the car, there is a panel display to show the SL’s mechanism and its history, and a section for SL fans and families to enjoy.

Highlights

  • Watch the majestic locomotive run, spewing black smoke.
  • Experience a Showa-retro train ride.
  • SL goods and lunch are available at the train station’s platform.
  • If you come early, you may be able to see the locomotive without the passenger car.

Photos

  • D51 #200 manufactured in 1938

    D51 #200 manufactured in 1938

  • Mighty SL Yamaguchi running through mountains

    Mighty SL Yamaguchi running through mountains

  • Shinome Station has a water tower which was used for trains - a popular place for a photo

    Shinome Station has a water tower which was used for trains - a popular place for a photo

  • The retro interior of the passenger cars was restored according to the height of the SL era. 
#5 car is after the OHa-31 model

    The retro interior of the passenger cars was restored according to the height of the SL era. #5 car is after the OHa-31 model

  • Cars #2 - 4 are after the OHa-35 model

    Cars #2 - 4 are after the OHa-35 model

  • The car #1 with an observation room restored after Mite-49. Each car has a retro taste.

    The car #1 with an observation room restored after Mite-49. Each car has a retro taste.

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Details

Name in Japanese
SL「やまぐち」号
Address
From Shin-Yamaguchi Station, Yamaguchi City, Yamaguchi through Tsuwano Station in Tsuwano Town, Kanoashi County, Shimane.
Telephone
0570-00-2486 (West Japan Railroad Customer Center)
*For schedule and fares, check the website.
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)