Recommended for Train-Loving Children! Saitama Omiya Railway Museum
pimama
What is the Railway Museum?
The Railway Museum is a museum dedicated to the history of railways, which opened in Omiya, Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture in 2007. Established by the East Japan Railway Culture Foundation, this museum is known as a must-visit spot for railway enthusiasts. Inside, you can find actual railway vehicles, models, driving simulators, and more, providing an opportunity to learn about the history and technology of railways. My 2-year-old and 4-year-old, who love trains, were thrilled! Even for me, as an adult, it was an educational experience. Let me introduce you to the charms of the Railway Museum, which can be enjoyed by both young children and adults alike.
Access
Access to the Railway Museum is very convenient. It is just a 1-minute walk from the New Shuttle’s "Railway Museum (Omiya)" station, which you can reach from JR Omiya Station. Once you get off the train and pass through the ticket gate, the museum entrance is right in front of you. Additionally, it is accessible by car, and parking is available.
Address
3-47 Onari-cho, Omiya-ku, Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture
Phone Number
048-651-0088
Hours of Operation and Holidays
The hours of operation for the Railway Museum are as follows:
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Last admission at 5:30 PM)
- Holidays: Tuesdays (open if Tuesday is a public holiday), and year-end and New Year holidays (December 29 – January 1)
Highlights
Vehicle Station
The Vehicle Station, located to the right of the entrance hall, is the museum’s main attraction. Here, you can find 36 vehicles on display, ranging from the first locomotive that operated when Japan’s railways first opened to the Shinkansen. A notable highlight is the "No. 1 Locomotive (Class 150 Steam Locomotive)" which was active when Japan’s first railway opened in 1872. There are also times when explanations about the locomotive and whistle demonstrations are held, which are highly recommended.
History Zone and Learning Zone
The Railway Museum is broadly divided into the History Zone and the Learning Zone. The History Zone focuses on the technical history of railways, with actual vehicles as the main exhibits. Meanwhile, the Learning Zone allows visitors to experience and learn about the principles and mechanisms of railways using actual parts and models. My train-loving child was fascinated by the zone on the third floor where they could learn about how trains work in an interactive way. The museum stimulates the senses and offers new learning experiences, making it an excellent educational facility.
Driving Simulator
The Railway Museum also offers professionally supervised driving experience programs. Using the driving simulators, you can experience what it’s like to actually operate a train, making it enjoyable for both children and adults.
Recommended Items to Bring
Here are some recommended items to bring when visiting the Railway Museum:
- Camera: A camera is essential for taking pictures of the valuable vehicles and exhibits.
- Clear File: Useful for carrying home photos taken and crafts made during activities.
- Notebook and Pen (Diary): Convenient for taking notes about the exhibits. If your child is used to keeping a diary or has a summer homework project, bringing their notebook is also recommended.
- Drinks: Since you’ll be walking around the museum, staying hydrated is important. There are also cafés and vending machines available. Diapers and drinks for children are also sold in the vending machines.
- Comfortable Shoes: To comfortably explore the spacious museum, wearing comfortable shoes is recommended. The corridors are carpeted, making it a safe material for toddlers who are just starting to walk.
Summary
The Railway Museum not only allows you to learn about the history and technology of railways but also offers an enjoyable experience through interactive exhibits. With good access, it is an ideal tourist spot for families and railway fans. Be sure to visit and immerse yourself in the charm of railways.