Kyoto Railway Museum and Keage Incline Historical Walk

This tour introduces two railway-related sites that reflect Kyoto’s modernization and transportation history. At the Kyoto Railway Museum, visitors can explore the development of Japan’s railway culture through historic steam locomotives, Shinkansen trains, and interactive exhibits. The museum also offers insight into everyday life and society in different periods of Japanese history. The tour also includes the experience of enjoying an “Ekiben,” a traditional Japanese railway lunch box, inside a train car. Ekiben has long been an important part of train travel culture in Japan and offers a unique way to experience local food and railway traditions together. At the Keage Incline, visitors can walk along a preserved railway slope that once supported Kyoto’s canal transportation system. This historic industrial site played an important role in the city’s modernization and infrastructure development, offering a different perspective on Kyoto beyond temples and shrines.

1. 1

   Kyoto Railway Museum

   2.5 hours

   As one of the largest railway museums in western Japan, the Kyoto Railway Museum offers visitors an opportunity to explore the history, technology, and culture of Japan’s railways. Inside the museum, historic steam locomotives, Shinkansen trains, and many other railway vehicles are displayed, allowing visitors to experience not only the development of Japan’s railway system but also glimpses of everyday life and society from different eras. There are also areas where you can watch active trains passing nearby, making the museum enjoyable for both railway enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike. One of the highlights of the museum is the impressive outdoor turntable and roundhouse, which remain iconic symbols of Japan’s railway heritage.

2. 2

   Keage Incline

   30 min

   Walk along the historic Keage Incline, a preserved railway slope once used to transport boats between canals during Kyoto’s modernization period. The tracks remain as a reminder of Japan’s industrial history and offer a unique atmosphere that blends engineering heritage with the quiet surroundings of eastern Kyoto. As you stroll along the former railway line, your guide will introduce the important role this area played in the development of transportation and infrastructure in Kyoto.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• The itinerary might be changed due to weather condition or other reasons.
• We can accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. If you have dietary requirements. Please indicate it to the special requirements at the time of booking.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.