About SCMAGLEV and Railway Park

The SCMAGLEV and Railway Park is a museum that can be found in Nagoya, Japan. Its purpose is to display the history of railways in Japan as well as their progression over time. The Central Japan Railway Company, also known as JR Central, which is one of the most important railroad corporations in Japan, is in charge of running the museum.

The museum features a collection of over 40 actual trains, including some of the earliest steam locomotives used in Japan as well as modern high-speed trains like the Superconducting Magnetic Levitation Train. In addition, the museum also features a collection of model trains, including some of the earliest steam locomotives used in Japan (SCMAGLEV). The museum is home to a number of railway-related items and exhibitions in addition to the actual trains themselves. These artifacts and exhibits include train models, historical photographs, and interactive displays.

The museum is composed of a number of distinct parts, each of which is dedicated to a particular facet of the history of railways in Japan. In the first part of the museum, which is referred to as the “History Zone,” artifacts from the early days of railroading in Japan are displayed. These artifacts range from the earliest steam locomotives to the development of electrification and high-speed trains. The second part of the exhibit is referred to as the “Future Zone,” and it is focused on showcasing the most recent advancements in railway technology, such as the SCMAGLEV.

The museum is home to a number of different educational activities and events in addition to the exhibits themselves. They include workshops, seminars, and guided museum tours. The objective of the museum is not only to teach visitors about the history and technology of railroads, but also to inspire the future generation of railway engineers and enthusiasts. Specifically, the museum’s mission is to educate visitors about the history and technology of railways.

The museum may be reached quickly and simply using public transit due to its location in Kinjofuto, which is a neighborhood in Nagoya. Mondays are the only day it is closed, and entry is charged on the other six days of the week.

History timeline of SCMAGLEV and Railway Park

Here is a brief history timeline of SCMAGLEV and Railway Park:

  • Early 2000s: Central Japan Railway Company (JR Central) begins development of its next-generation high-speed train, the Superconducting Magnetic Levitation Train (SCMAGLEV).
  • 2005: JR Central announces plans to build a museum to showcase the history and development of railways in Japan, as well as to promote the new SCMAGLEV technology.
  • 2007: Construction of the museum begins on the site of the former Nagoya freight yard.
  • March 2011: The SCMAGLEV and Railway Park opens to the public, just one month after the Great East Japan Earthquake.
  • 2016: A new section of the museum is added to showcase the SCMAGLEV, which is currently undergoing testing and is set to become the fastest train in the world.
  • Present day: The SCMAGLEV and Railway Park continues to be a popular attraction, drawing visitors from around the world to learn about the history and technology of railways in Japan. The museum also offers educational programs for children and adults to inspire the next generation of railway engineers and enthusiasts.

How to reach SCMAGLEV and Railway Park

SCMAGLEV and Railway Park is located in Kinjofuto, a district of Nagoya, Japan. Here are some ways to reach the museum:

By train:

  • Take the JR Tokaido Line to Kinjo-Futo Station. The museum is located next to the station.
  • Take the Aonami Line to Kinjo-Futo Station. The museum is located next to the station.

By bus:

  • Take the Meitetsu Bus Nagoya Sightseeing Route Bus (Red Line) and get off at SCMAGLEV and Railway Park bus stop.

By car:

  • From Nagoya city center, take the Nagoya Expressway Wangan Line to the Nagoya Port exit. Then, follow the signs to SCMAGLEV and Railway Park.

The museum is easily accessible by public transportation and there is ample parking available for those who choose to drive.

Do's and Dont's at SCMAGLEV and Railway Park

Here are some general do’s and don’ts when visiting SCMAGLEV and Railway Park:

Do’s:

  • Respect the exhibits and museum property.
  • Follow the instructions of the museum staff.
  • Enjoy the exhibits and take your time to explore the museum.
  • Take photos of the exhibits, unless otherwise indicated.
  • Attend the various events and educational programs offered by the museum.
  • Be mindful of other visitors and avoid causing disturbances.

Don’ts:

  • Touch the exhibits or climb onto the trains, unless it is allowed or encouraged.
  • Smoke or consume food and drinks in the museum, except in designated areas.
  • Run, shout or make loud noises that might disturb other visitors.
  • Use flash photography or tripods, as it might damage the exhibits or distract other visitors.
  • Bring large items or luggage into the museum, as there are no storage facilities available.

These are some general guidelines, but be sure to follow any specific rules or instructions posted in the museum or given by the staff. Enjoy your visit to SCMAGLEV and Railway Park.

Highlights of SCMAGLEV and Railway Park

SCMAGLEV and Railway Park is a fascinating museum that showcases the history and development of railways in Japan. Here are some of the highlights of the museum:

  1. The SCMAGLEV: The museum showcases the latest in high-speed train technology, the Superconducting Magnetic Levitation Train (SCMAGLEV), which is currently undergoing testing and is set to become the fastest train in the world.
  2. Collection of Trains: The museum features a collection of over 40 actual trains, ranging from the earliest steam locomotives to modern high-speed trains like the Shinkansen. Visitors can walk through many of the trains to get a feel for what it was like to travel on them.
  3. Interactive Exhibits: The museum has several interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about railway technology and operations. For example, visitors can simulate operating a train, or learn about the complex signals and switches that control train traffic.
  4. History Zone: The first section of the museum is called the “History Zone” and showcases the early days of railways in Japan, from the first steam locomotives to the development of electrification and high-speed trains. This section includes a number of historic trains and artifacts.
  5. Future Zone: The second section of the museum is called the “Future Zone” and is dedicated to the latest innovations in railway technology. This section includes the SCMAGLEV, as well as exhibits on other advanced technologies like train simulators and maintenance robots.
  6. Educational Programs: The museum offers various educational programs and events, such as workshops, lectures, and guided tours. These programs are designed to educate visitors about the history and technology of railways, as well as to inspire the next generation of railway engineers and enthusiasts.

These are just some of the highlights of SCMAGLEV and Railway Park. Whether you’re a railway enthusiast or just looking for a fun and educational outing, the museum is a must-visit destination in Nagoya.

Frequently asked questions about SCMAGLEV and Railway Park ?

What is SCMAGLEV and Railway Park?
There is a railway museum known as SCMAGLEV and Railway Park that can be found in Nagoya, Japan. It demonstrates not only the past but also the present and future of railway technology, as well as the history and progression of railways in Japan.
What can I see at SCMAGLEV and Railway Park?
Almost 40 genuine trains, spanning from the oldest steam locomotives to contemporary high-speed trains like the Shinkansen, are on display for guests to view in this collection. In addition, the museum provides educational activities and features interactive displays, such as train simulators and signal systems.
How long does it take to visit SCMAGLEV and Railway Park?
It depends on your level of interest, but it typically takes around 2-3 hours to explore the museum.
Can I take photos in the museum?
Yes, you can take photos of the exhibits, unless otherwise indicated. However, flash photography and tripods are not allowed.
Is the museum accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, the museum is accessible for people with disabilities. There are elevators and ramps, and the museum also offers audio guides and sign language interpreters upon request.
Are there restaurants or shops in SCMAGLEV and Railway Park?
Yes, there are several restaurants and souvenir shops in the museum. The restaurants offer a variety of Japanese cuisine, and the shops sell railway-themed souvenirs and gifts.
Operating hours of SCMAGLEV and Railway Park ?
The museum is open daily except for Wednesdays and during the New Year's holiday period (December 29 - January 3). The museum is open from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm (last admission at 5:00 pm).