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Did You Know You Can Drive Your Own Train In Japan?

Since the mini train experience is extremely popular, advance booking is highly suggested before travelling to Japan.

by Tanvi Shrivastava
Did You Know You Can Drive Your Own Train In Japan?

Japan is well-known for its modern railway system, but there is one attraction near Tokyo where you can not just ride the train but also drive your own mini train. Scroll down to know more.

Drive Your Own Mini-Train In Japan

At The Railway Museum in Saitama, tourists can actually drive their own mini train on a specially constructed track. From engaging exhibitions to realistic train simulators, the museum has become a famous must-visit spot, all thanks to its immersive experience.

The biggest highlight of the museum is definitely the mini-train-driving experience. Guests get to operate a small train around a custom-designed outdoor course that looks like a real railway setup. While the trains are tiny in size, the experience feels somewhat authentic and gives visitors a chance to understand how train operations work.

Apart from the mini train experience, the museum is also filled with amazing railway history. Visitors can explore and learn about different trains, like the vintage locomotives, bullet trains, railway artefacts, and interactive displays that perfectly explain how Japan’s rail network has evolved over the years.

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Additionally, there are also professional train simulators that recreate the experience of driving actual Japanese trains, making the museum both entertaining and educational. The museum is particularly popular among children and adults who are curious to learn all about trains.

How To Book The Mini-Train Ride?

Since the mini train experience is extremely popular, advance booking is highly suggested. Tourists can reserve a slot through the museum’s official website before travelling to Japan. Once the booking is made, payment needs to be made at a 7-Eleven store in Japan within two days.

For those who miss online reservations, the museum also offers another option through its mobile app. Those who are already at the museum can enter a raffle system for available slots, although getting a confirmed slot is not guaranteed because of the high demand.

The Railway Museum is priced at 1500 yen (₹909) for adult entry tickets, while the mini train driving experience costs an additional 600 yen (₹363).

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Situated in Omiya Ward, Saitama, the museum is easily reachable from Tokyo and is ideal for a perfect day trip. Whether you are deeply interested in railway culture or simply looking for a unique experience in Japan, this museum offers something genuinely memorable.

Would you like to visit this place?

First Published: May 15, 2026 2:43 PM

FAQs

How much is the 7 star sleeper train in Japan?

Demand is so overwhelming that most trip hopefuls have to enter a twice-a-year lottery for tickets, which start at ¥680,000 ($7000) per person in a twin suite for the two-day itinerary.

What is the shortest train in Japan?

Shibayama Railway Line between Higashi-Narita Station and Shibayama-Chiyoda Station, largely underneath Narita International Airport.

Can I ride the Japan Maglev now?

Not on a commercial service. The Chuo Shinkansen maglev line is currently under construction and is not expected to open before 2035.