Diorama of a futuristic city.
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Numaji Transportation Museum

4
·972 reviews·Hiroshima, Japan

Drive a miniature train, explore detailed models of cars, planes, and ships, and wander through a futuristic city. Fun for all ages!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Thursday & Friday mornings

Fewer crowds, more train ride slots

CrowdLow
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Diorama of a futuristic city.

Numaji Transportation Museum

Best Time

Thursday & Friday mornings

Fewer crowds, more train ride slots

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Drive a miniature train, explore detailed models of cars, planes, and ships, and wander through a futuristic city. Fun for all ages!

4
(972 reviews)

"Live your childhood dream and drive a train at this charming and affordable transportation museum!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Grab Train Ride Tickets Early

Tickets for the mini train ride sell out fast! Secure yours upon arrival to avoid disappointment.

🚲 Outdoor Bike Fun

Don't miss the 'crazy bikes' outside – a huge hit with younger visitors! Great for active kids.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mini Train Ride

Mini Train Ride

Outdoor track

Live out your childhood dream and drive a miniature train! A truly unique and memorable experience.

Model Collection

Model Collection

Exhibition halls

Admire detailed models of cars, planes, ships, and trams. A paradise for enthusiasts and collectors.

Futuristic City Exhibit

Futuristic City Exhibit

2nd floor

Explore a two-story model of a futuristic city, showcasing urban planning and transportation concepts.

Crazy Bikes

Crazy Bikes

Outdoor area

Kids can have a blast riding unique, fun-shaped bicycles. Perfect for burning off energy.

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Planning Your Visit

Train Ride Tickets & Timing

Book your train ride tickets in advance, especially for weekend slots. The popular mini-train experience has limited availability and fills up quickly. Check the schedule upon arrival to plan your day.

Kid-Friendly Fun & Expectations

While kids love trains, hands-on exhibits are limited. The 'crazy bikes' outside are a hit. Consider this museum best for ages 4+ for maximum engagement, though younger children can enjoy the models.

Best Times

When
Thursday & Friday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more train ride slots
Crowd
Low
When
Saturday afternoons
Why
More train ride times available
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunday afternoons
Why
Last chance for train rides
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

HAVE YOU EVER WANTED TO DRIVE A TRAIN? 🚂 Well The Railway Museum, just north of Tokyo allows you to do just that! 📍 The Railway Museum, Omiya City, Saitama #railwaymusuem #musuem #train #locomotive #choochoo #trainlover #japanese #trainshots #shinkansen#bullettrain #thingstodoinjapan #daytrip #traingeek #fyp #railway
@ronanandalex
5.1K likes • 97.2K views

🎟️ Grab Train Ride Tickets Early

Tickets for the mini train ride sell out fast! Secure yours upon arrival to avoid disappointment. TikTok

🚲 Outdoor Bike Fun

Don't miss the 'crazy bikes' outside – a huge hit with younger visitors! Great for active kids. Reddit

Living My Childhood Dream: I Drove a Train in Japan! ✅ Another one checked off my Japan bucket list! Had an absolute blast driving a mini train at the Railway Museum in Saitama. It was definitely the highlight of my visit (aside from geeking out over the train-themed toys and collectibles 😆). NGL, I think Sheldon from Big Bang Theory got me into trains, lol. 📍The Railway Museum, Saitama (just an h...
@mochibeabii
601 likes • 4.8K views
Plan your trip to the Museum That Moves You! Our hours and train ride schedule: Museum hours: Tuesday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday Noon - 5 p.m. Train Ride times: Thursday & Friday at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1 p.m. Saturday at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. Sunday at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. #NCTransportationMuseum #TheMuseumThatMovesYou #VisitRowanCounty
@visitnctm
439 likes • 3.7K views

💰 Affordable Entry Fee

Inexpensive admission makes it a great value, especially for families. Kids under junior high are often free! Reddit

🗣️ Multilingual Guides Available

Guides are available in both Japanese and English, making the exhibits accessible to international visitors. Reddit

reddit.com

I was in Hiroshima. The city does transit right.

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Grab Train Ride Tickets Early

Tickets for the mini train ride sell out fast! Secure yours upon arrival to avoid disappointment. TikTok

🚲 Outdoor Bike Fun

Don't miss the 'crazy bikes' outside – a huge hit with younger visitors! Great for active kids. Reddit

💰 Affordable Entry Fee

Inexpensive admission makes it a great value, especially for families. Kids under junior high are often free! Reddit

🗣️ Multilingual Guides Available

Guides are available in both Japanese and English, making the exhibits accessible to international visitors. Reddit

🚗 Combine with Zoo Visit

Consider pairing your museum visit with the nearby zoo for a full day of family fun. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4
(972 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Numaji Transportation Museum for its affordable entry and the unique mini-train driving experience, making it a hit with kids and enthusiasts alike. While some wish for more interactive exhibits, the extensive model collection and friendly volunteers offer a charming and worthwhile visit.

"This place has everything. Trains, cars, planes, boats, and even Astram !!good for the kids and otaku alike."

Shuu Mitsui

"A lot of nice small models of aeroplanes, ships, cars, trams and trains.
Cars were mostly those super cars. Not many of those old everyday models, which I like most. 200yen ticket for a 65+ coming by train."

Pasi Mustalahti

"Its okay. Large museum but few exhibits. On the plus side it is cheap and lots of space for kids to run around. However not many interactive exhibits for kids, lots of models behind glass. Kids did enjoy riding bicycles outside. Pay at the vending machine near the information desk. Guides in both japanese and english. If your in the area stop by, people are nice."

Neil Bailey

What People Like

Affordable entry fee
Mini-train driving experience
Detailed model collection

What People Dislike

Limited interactive exhibits

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is accessible by train. It's a good idea to check local transit apps for the most up-to-date routes and schedules from your starting point. Reddit

Information on parking availability can vary. It's recommended to check the museum's official website or local transit information for the most current parking details. Reddit

Yes, many visitors find it convenient to combine a trip to the museum with a visit to the nearby zoo, making for a full day of exploration. Reddit

While not directly in Tokyo, the museum is accessible via train. Consider it a day trip destination from the greater Tokyo area, similar to other attractions north of the city. TikTok

Specific train line information can be found on the museum's official website or through local transit planners. Many visitors arrive via local rail services. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The museum typically operates from Tuesday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. It's always best to confirm hours on their official site. TikTok

Admission is very affordable, often around ¥510 for adults, with children up to junior high school age often admitted for free. Payment is usually via vending machine. Reddit

General museum entry usually doesn't require advance booking, but it's highly recommended to book tickets for the popular mini-train ride in advance, especially on weekends. TikTok

Yes, there are often discounted rates for seniors (e.g., 200 yen for 65+ arriving by train) and potentially other groups. Check for specific offers. Reddit

Train rides have specific times: Thursdays & Fridays at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1 p.m.; Saturdays at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m.; Sundays at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find a wide array of detailed models including cars, planes, ships, trams, and trains. There's also a two-floor futuristic city exhibit. Reddit

While there are many models behind glass, interactive exhibits are somewhat limited. The 'crazy bikes' outside are a major hit for kids to actively engage with. Reddit

Yes, you can drive a miniature train on an outdoor track! This is a highlight for many visitors, fulfilling childhood dreams. TikTok

While toddlers might enjoy the models, the museum is generally considered more appropriate for ages 4 and up due to fewer hands-on activities for the very young. Reddit

Yes, guides are available in both Japanese and English, making the exhibits understandable for international visitors. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography is allowed for personal use, but it's always good practice to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits. TikTok

The detailed model displays offer great close-up photo opportunities. The outdoor train ride area and the 'crazy bikes' also make for fun, dynamic shots. TikTok

Yes, the two-floor futuristic city model is a visually interesting subject for photography, showcasing intricate details. TikTok

Drone photography is typically not permitted inside or around most museums and attractions due to safety and privacy concerns. TikTok

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. If you enjoy detail shots, a macro lens can be useful for the intricate models. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Numaji Transportation Museum offers a mix of engaging and observational experiences for families. The mini-train ride is a definite highlight, allowing kids (and adults!) to feel like they're driving a train. TikTok The outdoor 'crazy bikes' are also a huge hit, providing ample opportunity for active play. Reddit

While many exhibits are detailed models behind glass, which might be less interactive for very young children, the sheer variety of vehicles—from planes and ships to cars and trains—can still capture their imagination. Consider this museum best suited for children aged 4 and up to fully appreciate the displays and activities. Reddit The affordable entry fee makes it a budget-friendly outing for a family day trip. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

This museum is a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers. The entry fee is remarkably low, often just a few hundred yen for adults, with children frequently admitted for free. Reddit This makes it an excellent value for money, especially for families or groups looking to explore without breaking the bank.

Beyond the affordable admission, the museum offers unique experiences like the mini-train ride, which, while potentially an additional small cost, provides significant entertainment value. TikTok Combining a visit with nearby attractions like the zoo can also maximize your day without incurring extra transportation costs if planned efficiently. Reddit

🚂 Train Enthusiasts & Otaku

For anyone with a passion for trains, the Numaji Transportation Museum is a must-visit. The mini-train ride offers a hands-on experience that’s hard to find elsewhere, allowing you to get behind the controls. TikTok Beyond this, the extensive collection of detailed train models provides hours of viewing pleasure, showcasing various types and eras of locomotives. Reddit

The museum also appeals to 'otaku' culture with its wide array of transportation-themed collectibles and detailed models of not just trains, but also cars, planes, and ships. Reddit The futuristic city exhibit adds another layer of interest, blending urban planning with transportation concepts. It’s a place where you can geek out over the intricate details and appreciate the engineering marvels of transport. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of Driving a Train

One of the most talked-about experiences at the Numaji Transportation Museum is the opportunity to drive a miniature train. This isn't just a simulation; it's a real, albeit small, locomotive on an outdoor track. Visitors can fulfill a lifelong dream of being a train conductor, a sentiment echoed by many on social media. TikTok The experience is a major draw, making it essential to plan your visit around the train ride schedule. TikTok

While the actual driving experience is brief, the joy and novelty it provides are significant. It’s a unique interactive element that sets this museum apart from many others that only display static models. The enthusiasm from those who've tried it is palpable, often described as a 'childhood dream come true.' TikTok

Pro-tip: Tickets for the train ride are often sold separately or have limited availability. It's crucial to check the schedule upon arrival and purchase your tickets as soon as possible to secure your spot. TikTok

A Collector's Paradise: The Model Exhibits

The museum boasts an impressive collection of meticulously crafted model transportation. From sleek supercars and classic automobiles to detailed airplanes, ships, and trams, the variety is extensive. These models are behind glass, allowing for close inspection of their intricate designs and craftsmanship. Reddit For enthusiasts and those who appreciate detailed replicas, this section is a major highlight.

While some visitors express a preference for older, everyday vehicle models, the current collection focuses heavily on high-performance cars and diverse modes of transport. The sheer number and quality of these models make it a visual feast for anyone interested in engineering and design. Reddit It’s a testament to the passion of model makers and a great way to appreciate the evolution of transportation.

Key takeaway: The model exhibits are a core part of the museum's appeal, offering a deep dive into the world of transportation through detailed miniature representations. Reddit

Beyond the Exhibits: Family Fun

While the museum's primary focus is on transportation models and exhibits, it also offers elements that cater to families, particularly younger visitors. The 'crazy bikes' located in the outdoor area are a significant attraction for children. These uniquely shaped bicycles provide a fun and active way for kids to play and burn energy, making the visit more engaging for them. Reddit

However, it's important to manage expectations regarding hands-on activities. Some reviews suggest that beyond the bikes and the mini-train ride, there are fewer truly interactive exhibits for very young children, with many displays being observational. Reddit This means that while toddlers might enjoy the visual aspects, children aged 4 and above are likely to get more out of the experience due to their ability to appreciate the models and participate in the limited interactive elements. Reddit

Family recommendation: Plan to spend time at the outdoor 'crazy bikes' area and prioritize booking the mini-train ride for the most engaging experiences for younger family members. Reddit

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