Discover the Railway Museum in Omiya, Japan - Japan Travel Sights

The Railway Museum, also known as “Teppaku,” is a must-visit destination for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Originally located in Kanda as the Transportation Museum, it was relocated to Omiya and reopened in 2007.

Following a major renovation in 2018, the museum now boasts a new South Building, enhancing its offerings even further.

Explore the Train Station Hall

As you enter the museum, you’ll be greeted by the impressive Train Station Hall. This area is home to 36 real trains, including several designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan.

The centerpiece of the hall is the rotating turntable, which turns daily at 3:00 PM—a spectacle not to be missed. You can also view the luxurious Imperial carriages, designed for use by the Emperor, Empress, and Crown Prince, through protective glass. The hall’s two-story layout offers an excellent vantage point from the second floor.

Experience Hands-On Fun

In addition to the exhibits, the museum offers a variety of interactive programs. One of the most popular is the Mini Train Ride in the outdoor Mini Operation Park. Here, you can drive a small train that winds through a scenic 300-meter course, complete with signals and four stations.

This experience allows you to feel like a real train conductor, with room for two passengers per ride. The mini trains are modeled after JR lines, and which train you’ll drive is part of the surprise!

Another highlight is the Simulator Hall on the second floor of the South Building, where you can learn about a train conductor’s job through realistic simulations. One of the favorites is the D51 steam locomotive simulator, located in the Train Station Hall.

Marvel at the Model Railway Diorama

Spanning 23 meters wide and 10 meters deep, the museum’s model railway diorama is one of the largest in Japan. Even if you’re not a train enthusiast, you’ll be captivated by this elaborate display.

The diorama represents a fictional town modeled after the museum itself, with 1,200 meters of track.

The 10-minute guided program, where museum staff operate the model trains, offers a fun and educational experience.

Dive Into History at the History Station

For those interested in the history of railways in Japan, the History Station on the third floor of the South Building is a must-see. This exhibit covers 150 years of Japanese railway history, divided into six distinct eras.

The displays provide insight into the social and technological developments that shaped the railway system.

You can also see recreations of historical sites like the Shimbashi Station from 1872, complete with nostalgic ticket counters and gates.

Dining and Shopping

No visit to the Railway Museum is complete without enjoying a meal at one of its restaurants.

The Train Restaurant Nippon Shokudo offers a luxurious dining experience, themed after a dining car, where you can savor dishes like beef stew and hayashi rice.

For a more casual meal with a view, head to the View Restaurant on the fourth floor of the South Building, which overlooks the Shinkansen tracks.

The Shinkansen Lounge on the third floor of the Main Building also offers a view of these high-speed trains.

Before you leave, make sure to stop by the museum shop.

You’ll find a wide variety of railway-themed souvenirs, including exclusive items featuring the “Teppaku” logo—perfect mementos of your visit.