Nagahama Tetsudo Square, Wakasa Travel Guide

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Explore Japan's railway history at Nagahama Tetsudo Square, home to the nation's oldest preserved station building and railway artifacts.

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Nagahama Tetsudo Square

Nagahama Tetsudo Square is a railway museum in Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture, showcasing Japan's oldest preserved station building and a collection of locomotives and railway artifacts. It offers a glimpse into the early days of Japanese railway history and the region's transportation heritage.

A brief summary to Nagahama Tetsudo Square

1-41 Kitafunacho, Nagahama, Kitafunacho, Shiga, 526-0057, JP
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Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Nagahama Tetsudo Square.

Check the opening hours before visiting, as the museum is closed during the New Year period (Dec 29 - Jan 3).
Combine your visit with other Nagahama attractions like Kurokabe Square and Nagahama Castle.
Take the opportunity to try on the uniforms worn by locomotive drivers and station staff for a memorable photo.

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Explore Nagahama Tetsudo Square on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Nagahama Tetsudo Square, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

Nagahama Tetsudo Square is located a short walk from JR Nagahama Station. Exit the station and walk east for about 3 minutes. The museum will be on your left. There are no specific costs involved in walking from the station.
Public Transport

If arriving by train at Nagahama Station, exit the station and walk east. The museum is a 3-minute walk from the station. Local bus services are available from Nagahama Station to other parts of the city. A single bus fare within the city typically costs around ¥200-300.
Taxi

Taxis are available at Nagahama Station. A short taxi ride from the station to Nagahama Tetsudo Square will cost approximately ¥700-¥1000, depending on traffic.

Discover more about Nagahama Tetsudo Square

Nagahama Tetsudo Square is a tribute to Japan's railway history, centered around the original Nagahama Station building, the oldest of its kind still standing. Built in 1882, the station provides a look into the early Meiji era of railway travel. The Square comprises three main areas: the Old Nagahama Station Building, the Nagahama Railway Culture Museum, and the Hokuriku Line Electrification Memorial Hall.The Old Nagahama Station Building itself is a preserved structure showcasing Meiji-era station furniture and decor. Mannequins dressed in period travel clothing add to the atmosphere. The Nagahama Railway Culture Museum exhibits railway-related materials and model trains. The Hokuriku Line Electrification Memorial Hall displays historic railway cars that once ran on the Hokuriku Line. Visitors can explore a D51 steam locomotive and an ED70 AC electric locomotive, even sitting in the driver's seat.Nagahama played a crucial role in the development of Japan's railway network, serving as a vital transportation hub connecting rail and boat services on Lake Biwa. The museum not only preserves the past but also provides insights into the modernization of the region during the Meiji period.