Kyoto Railway Museum (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Kyoto Railway Museum?
What makes it 95% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 can press signal levers, join dress-up, ride the ¥100 steam train, and play in hands-on zones; clear safety rails and wide aisles make the venue almost perfect for families.
![[4K] Kyoto Railway Museum | JR West | Walking Tour | 京都 | 2024](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/3YXWU6Uaq-g/hqdefault.jpg)
Positives:
- Stroller-friendly layout: Wide aisles and free stroller rental make moving with kids easy.
- English guidance: Exhibits have English labels and staff can speak basic English.
- Rest areas: Multiple benches and a café train car let you take breaks easily.
Challenges:
- Simulator ticket limits: Only 30 slots per day; book early to secure a session.
- Height requirements: Track Bicycle needs a minimum height of 120 cm.
- Queue times: Popular activities fill fast after opening; expect waits.
What is Kyoto Railway Museum?
- Japan's largest railway museum connecting over a century of locomotive history with modern rail technology
- Expansive 31,000 m² facility housing more than 50 historic steam, diesel, and Shinkansen trains
- Restored 1914 roundhouse featuring an operational steam locomotive inspection shed and turntable for preservation and display
What is so special about Kyoto Railway Museum for with kids?
- Hands-on simulators and dress-up keep kids engaged
- Short steam train rides add real excitement
- Interactive play zones for ages 3–12
- Rooftop terrace offers live Shinkansen views
- Easy stroller access and English signage
Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours
Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2–3 hour visit lets your family explore exhibits and hands-on zones without tiring the kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Kyoto Railway Museum
Train Driving Simulators:
Book a 10-minute session on real-driver or Shinkansen cabs.
Tip: Reserve online in advance or at a 7-Eleven machine the day before.
Track Bicycle Experience:
Ride a rail inspection bike around the tracks.
Tip: Runs on weekends and holidays; child must be at least 120 cm tall.
SL Steam Locomotive Ride:
Enjoy a 1 km steam train trip inside the museum grounds.
Tip: Paid extra; arrive at opening to avoid long waits.
Railway Diorama Show:
Watch a 15-minute scale model train presentation.
Tip: Shows run six times daily; check the board for times.
Sky Terrace Train Watching:
Head to the rooftop garden for Shinkansen spotting.
Tip: Pack water and hats in summer; outdoor area can get hot.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Kyoto Railway Museum
- Buy tickets online: Purchase admission and simulator tickets on the official site to skip lines.
- Visit off-peak hours: Arrive right at opening or late afternoon for fewer crowds.
- Plan show times: Check the diorama schedule on arrival to slot in other activities around it.
Reviews of Kyoto Railway Museum
Charlie Vongphantuseth
This place is amazing. I am really not a train guy but say wow every corner I found in this museum. Entrance fee is cheap and staff is kind .they also provide children price. Here you can see everything and anything about train system if you have a time you can spend the whole day here . I am really recommend this place. its good for everyone from kindergarten kid until adult.
Zhe Lua
A must visit for the kids! Quite interesting place for kids to learn and play. Its not the boring museum but an interactive one. I think most of the kids could stay almost half day in this place so much to see and do. Amaze with Japan’s Railway history.
Oli Hille
If you like trains it is an unmissable epic experience. If you just like trains you will love it. If you are meh on trains you will still enjoy it. History, design, travel - what's not to love. Plus ride on a steam train. Plus the biggest train set you have ever seen. Pro tip: Catch the last steam train of the day then you get to see it go on the turntable and be put away for the night.
Collin Bowser
I love this museum! I'm a twenty-something year old and this place had me feeling like a kid again. I've been obsessed with trains my whole life and the Kyoto Railway Museum is the pinnacle of train museums. From the highly interactive exhibits to the well preserved trains from the real world, all ages will find something to enjoy. The museum grounds are spotless and the roundhouse with ongoing st...
Bird Doglike
If you're visiting Kyoto Station for sightseeing, make sure to stop by the Kyoto Railway Museum. From steam locomotives to the Shinkansen, the museum features a stunning lineup of real trains that will truly impress you. One of the highlights is the chance to actually ride in a passenger car pulled by a steam engine for a short cruise—an unforgettable experience. There’s even Thomas the Tank Engi...
When is the best time to visit Kyoto Railway Museum (Kyoto, Japan)?
Track Bicycle Experience is available only on weekends and Japanese public holidays. In summer months, bring hats, sunscreen, and water for the rooftop terrace; in winter, dress in layers for outdoor sections.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult admission (×2) | JPY 3,000 |
| Child admission (×2) | JPY 1,000 |
| SL steam ride | JPY 800 |
| Train simulator sessions (×2) | JPY 200 |
| Lunch in dining car | JPY 2,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 7,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Kyoto Railway Museum
Address: Kankijicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8835, Japan
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Kyoto Railway Museum (Kyoto)?
About Kyoto Railway Museum
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsiteExplore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, with kids
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with kids
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!