Kyoto offers travelers an astounding array of ancient temples and shrines to explore, but families with kids may seek more interactive activities for a change of pace. The Kyoto Railway Museum, located about 25 minutes away from Kyoto Station, or a mere 3-minute train ride, stands as a convenient choice for families exploring the city. As one of the Japanese three biggest railway museums, this museum stores an impressive collection of 54 trains, ranging from classic steam locomotives to sleek Shinkansen, all housed within a huge facility of 30,000 square meters. 

The Kyoto Railway Museum provides an immersive journey into Japanese railway history, transforming learning into a fun and interactive experience for families with kids. Through captivating exhibits, children can trace the evolution of trains, from the classical steam locomotives to the sleek Shinkansen of modernity. Interactive displays and hands-on activities invite kids to delve into the mechanics of trains, fostering curiosity and a deeper understanding of transportation technology.
 

One of the standout features of the Kyoto Railway Museum is its emphasis on hands-on exploration. Kids can become a train driver by operating a real simulator, akin to those used by actual train drivers during training. They can also dress up as railway workers or embark on a ride aboard rail bicycles, used for inspecting railway tracks. These interactive activities not only entertain but also offer valuable insights into the inner workings of trains, sparking imagination and creativity in young minds through a unique and engaging experience.

Among the museum's most beloved interactive exhibition is the ride of “SL Steam” where visitors can ride in passenger cars pulled by authentic steam locomotives, some of which are over a hundred years old! The 1km round-trip journey takes approximately 10 minutes, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in a bygone era while admiring the scenic beauty of nearby Umekoji Park.

Location 
Kankijicho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto

Museum hours
10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
(No admission after 4:30 p.m.)

• General admission (18 years and older): 1,500 yen
• University and high school students: 1,300 yen
• Junior high and elementary school students: 500 yen
• Children (3 years and older): 200 yen

Closed
Every Wednesday and Year-end through New-Year season (12/30 to 1/1).

Website:
https://www.kyotorailwaymuseum.jp/en/