During the 2018 GSEP Kansai Study trip, we were given the wonderful opportunity of visiting the Kyoto Railway Museum. Constructed in 2016, the museum was built to celebrate Japan’s first step towards embracing modernization through the development of the nation’s railway system. Right after entering the gates, we were greeted face-to-face by actual train cars used in service: from the humble steam engine to the futuristic shinkansen, faithfully restored with a fresh coat of paint.
Unlike other museums, these set pieces were also properly maintained on the inside as well. Visitors could explore the gorgeous dining rooms of the shinkansen and relive the typical commute of days gone by.
Upon entering the gallery proper, visitors are greeted by the polite visage of S-maru, the museum’s mascot. Modeled after the British 230-233 steam locomotive, S-maru served as our guide through the museum’s many displays. The museum was not only a feast for the eyes, but for the mind as well. The displays offered educational videos chronicling the history Japan’s railways. Between the lifelike dioramas of early train stations, to the timeline of train conductor uniforms on display safe behind glass cabinets, I was almost filled with nostalgia for days I was too young to experience. On the far side were displays related to the technology of the railway itself. Hands-on toys and simulation games intuitively explained to children and their families the basic principles of the rail, allowing even the youngest visitor to see why the wheelset is shaped in a semi-conical fashion, or the inspired-by-nature fishbone shape of the overhead pantograph. Lastly, the top floor held lifelike replicas of both modern and vintage train stations. Using the train on my daily commute myself, I never realized how much effort it took to ensure that the trains always arrived on time. Of course, a visit to such a wonderful museum is not complete without a few souvenirs. The exit of the museum leads to the souvenir shop well stocked with various trinkets and train themed knick-knacks. I chose to go with the personalized train ticket, which I use as a bookmark until today. (Unfortunately, it wasn’t usable in any train station in service today).
Our group left the museum satisfied, with our minds filled with wonder at the awesome scale of Japan’s railway system. The Kyoto railway museum is truly a wonderful visit for train fans, young and old alike.
Written by Pascal Bernardino Pama, Philippines