TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Railway Museum is a large railway-themed museum operated by East Japan Railway Company (JR East) and is located in Omiya Ward, Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture. Since opening in 2007, the museum has been popular with a wide range of people, from railway enthusiasts to families, with its exhibits that combine displays of actual trains with explanations of railway technology and hands-on attractions. In addition to being able to see real trains such as historic steam locomotives, early trains, and the 0-series Shinkansen up close, there are also plenty of hands-on attractions, such as driving simulators and large-scale dioramas.
Highlights
- Exhibition Vehicle Zone:There are many permanent exhibits of actual trains, including the 0-series Shinkansen, steam locomotives such as the C57 and D51, and old commuter trains and sleeper trains. You can even enter some trains (entry restrictions may apply).
- Diorama (railroad model):A huge HO gauge diorama is on display, allowing visitors to observe realistic cityscapes and train operations up close. Regular train operation shows are also held.
- Driving Simulator:There is a paid lottery-based simulator where you can experience full-scale driving. There is also a simple simulator for children.
- History Zone:The history of railways is explained in an easy-to-understand manner using timelines, models, and documents. You can learn about its relationship to technology and daily life.
- Kids space/experiential exhibits:There are hands-on exhibits for children to enjoy, a mini driving experience, and a corner with recreated traffic lights and a driver's seat.
- Museum Shop and Cafe:A shop selling railway goods and limited edition products, as well as a rest and dining space.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Railway:Get off at "Railway Museum (Taisei) Station" on the Saitama New Urban Transit (New Shuttle) and walk just a short distance from the station. From Omiya Station on the JR lines, it is just one stop (a few minutes) away by New Shuttle.
- On foot:It takes about 15-20 minutes to walk from JR Omiya Station (East Exit) (about 1-1.5km). If you have luggage or children, it is convenient to use the New Shuttle.
- Bus/Car:There are local buses and shuttle buses that depart from the east exit of Omiya Station, but the number of buses varies depending on the route, so we recommend checking in advance. There is a parking lot, but the number of spaces is limited and it often fills up during busy times, so we recommend using public transportation.
- Barrier-free:The building is equipped with wheelchair-accessible passageways, elevators, multi-purpose restrooms, etc. Strollers are permitted, but you may be asked to temporarily carry them when it is crowded.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short: 1-1.5 hours (highlights of the main exhibits only)
- Standard: 2-3 hours (including vehicle exhibits, dioramas, museum shop, and cafe)
- Thorough: Half a day to a full day (if you want to try out the driving simulator, participate in events, and take your time to look at the special exhibits)
Nearby spots
- Omiya Park and Omiya Hikawa Shrine:It is accessible by foot or bus from the museum and is a popular walking spot during the seasons (cherry blossoms and autumn leaves).
- Omiya Bonsai Village and Omiya Bonsai Art Museum:This spot introduces bonsai culture and is suitable for relaxed sightseeing (it is a little far away, so you can take a bus or taxi).
- Shopping and dining near Omiya Station:There are many restaurants and souvenir shops in the station building and shopping district, making it easy to stop by on your way home.
- Saitama New City (Saitama Super Arena, etc.):It's just a few train stops away and can be combined with events and shopping.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion:It gets very crowded on weekends, holidays, and during long school holidays (spring break, summer vacation, New Year's). Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded. Popular driving simulators and some exhibits may require waiting times or require advance reservations or lotteries.
- photo shoot:Photography is permitted in many areas of the museum, but the use of flashes and tripods, as well as touching exhibits, are often prohibited, so please follow the posted notices.
- Eating and drinking:Eating and drinking is prohibited in the exhibition area. Please use the cafe or rest area for eating and drinking.
- Facility closing days and event information:The museum is closed on regular days (usually Mondays), has special closures, and holds special exhibitions and events, so please check the official website for the latest opening hours and ticket information before visiting.
- Child-friendly and safe:If you have small children, be careful of steps on the exhibit vehicles and children getting lost when it's crowded. It's also a good idea to check where strollers are parked and where nursing rooms are available.
- Seasonal Notes:It gets particularly crowded during long holidays such as Golden Week, summer vacation, and the New Year holidays, so we recommend that you visit with plenty of time to spare or plan to avoid the crowds.
*Details such as opening hours, closing days, admission fees, simulator usage methods and fees may change. Please check the official website for the latest information and event information.
