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Kyoto Railway Museum: A Journey Through Japan's Railway History

Explore Japan's railway history at Kyoto Railway Museum: trains, simulators, and a historic roundhouse await!

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The Kyoto Railway Museum is a comprehensive showcase of Japan's railway history, featuring over 50 retired trains, interactive exhibits, and a historic roundhouse. It's a must-visit for train enthusiasts and families alike.

A brief summary to Kyoto Railway Museum

  • Kankijicho, Kyoto, Kankijicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8835, JP
  • Visit website
  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance for smoother entry.
  • Check the museum's website for special discounts or promotions.
  • Don't miss the steam locomotive ride for a nostalgic experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Kyoto Station's central exit, the Kyoto Railway Museum is approximately a 20-minute walk. Head west from the station. The walk is mostly flat and straightforward, and half of the journey passes through Umekoji Park. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From Kyoto Station, take bus 86, 88, 103, 104, or 110 to the Umekoji-koen/Kyoto Railway Museum-mae bus stop, which is right in front of the museum. The flat fare for city buses within the central area is ¥230 for adults and ¥120 for children. Alternatively, take the JR Sagano Line to Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station, which is a 2-minute walk from the museum. JR train fares vary depending on the distance, but a short trip from Kyoto Station would likely cost around ¥140-200.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available at Kyoto Station. A taxi ride to the Kyoto Railway Museum typically costs between ¥800 and ¥1,200, depending on traffic and the exact route. The base fare for a taxi in Kyoto is ¥490 - ¥500 for the first 1 km, with additional charges of ¥100 for every 279-415 meters. Note that a 20% surcharge applies between 10:00 PM and 5:00 AM.

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Discover more about Kyoto Railway Museum

The Kyoto Railway Museum, which opened in 2016, is one of Japan's largest railway museums, offering a fascinating look into the country's rich railway heritage. Located on the former site of the Umekoji Steam Locomotive Museum, it expands upon its predecessor with modern exhibits and a vast collection of rolling stock. The museum boasts over 50 retired trains, including steam locomotives, electric trains, and Shinkansen bullet trains. Visitors can explore the evolution of rail transport in Japan, from its early beginnings to the high-speed marvels of today. Highlights include the first Shinkansen (0 series) and the 500 series, once the world's fastest train. The museum also features a roundhouse built in 1914, showcasing a collection of well-preserved steam locomotives. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to engage with railway technology. Train simulators offer a chance to experience driving narrow-gauge trains and Shinkansen. A large diorama depicts miniature trains operating in a realistic landscape. The museum also has a restaurant with views of the JR Kyoto Line and Tokaido Shinkansen. Don't miss the former Nijo Station building, a picturesque structure relocated from its original site.

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