The Railway Museum

What to know

Opened in 2007 by JR East in Saitama City, The Railway Museum traces the history of rail travel in Japan. It showcases numerous retired train cars, offers engaging simulators to teach train operation, and explains the evolution of railway technology over the decades.

The museum's vast collection of former rolling stock includes steam and diesel locomotives, retired shinkansen bullet trains, passenger cars, and freight cars. Many can be boarded or viewed from underneath. One of Japan's largest dioramas is also on display. Another section uses models and hands-on exhibits to explain railway concepts, science, and systems.

Multiple popular train simulators are available, including a steam locomotive driving simulator and a conductor simulator that involves opening and closing train doors. The museum's app can be used to reserve slots for many simulators, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

The museum's café and rooftop garden offer nice views of passing trains, as the building sits between the tracks of the JR Takasaki Line and the Tohoku, Joetsu, and Hokuriku shinkansen. There are play areas for children, a mini shinkansen ride, and a small network of tracks for mini trains that visitors can ride and operate.

Some simulators and rides require additional fees.

The Railway Museum is located right next to Tetsudo Hakubutsukan Station, a three-minute ride from Omiya Station on the New Shuttle (190 yen one way). The New Shuttle is not covered by any JR pass except the JR Tokyo Wide Pass.