Audio Guide of The Railway Museum

The museum is generally open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (last admission 4:30 p.m.) and is closed on Tuesdays. The fastest way is to take the train to JR Omiya Station and transfer there to the New Shuttle line to Tetsudo-Hakubutsukan Station, which drops you right at the entrance.

General admission for adults costs 1,330 JPY, with reduced fares for children and students. It is highly recommended to buy tickets in advance at convenience stores (Seven-Eleven, Lawson) or on the official website to secure your spot, as capacity may fill up.

To see the main exhibits and enjoy the diorama, allow at least 3 hours. If you are a train enthusiast and want to try the driving simulators, we suggest setting aside the whole day so you can enjoy everything at a relaxed pace.

This museum is the crown jewel of JR East, telling the story of Japan’s modernization through its railways since the Meiji era. It houses 36 impeccably preserved real vehicles, including imperial steam locomotives and the earliest models of the famous Shinkansen bullet train.

Weekdays (Wednesday to Friday) are ideal for avoiding crowds and getting better access to the simulators. If you go on a weekend, try to arrive right at opening time (10:00 a.m.) to secure turns on the most popular attractions.

Absolutely. The site is fully accessible, with ramps, spacious elevators, and adapted restrooms for ostomates. In addition, they offer free wheelchair and stroller rental at the entrance.

Yes, just a short train ride away you can visit the majestic Musashi Ichinomiya Hikawa Shrine, one of the oldest in the region. Omiya Park is also nearby, famous for its cherry blossoms and its small free zoo.

Do not eat before you go in; the full experience includes buying an ekiben (station bento) at the museum shop and eating it inside the train cars set aside for this purpose in the lunch area. It is like traveling back in time while enjoying local cuisine.