Enjoy around the Kanto area! 5 Nostalgic Steam Trains You Can Experience
The Charm Of Steam Trains That Captures Japan’s Nostalgia
The classic black body, billowing white steam, and echoing whistle…
The scenery of mountains and rivers viewed from the slowly moving steam train, along with the sound of its whistle, feels like traveling through time.
The Kanto region offers several popular routes accessible within 2-3 hours from Tokyo, where you can enjoy seasonal scenery and hot springs along the way.
This article introduces how to visit five recommended steam train routes near the Tokyo area using the convenient route search tool “Japan Transit Guide Powered by Ekispert.”
Note: Please check official websites for operating days, ticketing, and boarding procedures.
5 Recommended Steam Trains You Can Ride Near Tokyo
1. Chichibu Railway “SL Paleo Express”
A popular train running between Kumagaya Station and Mitsumineguchi Station.
The views from the windows are a highlight, with beautiful ravines along the Arakawa River and mountains that change with the seasons.
At the terminus, Mitsumineguchi station, you’ll find hot springs and a shrine—perfect for enjoying nature and culture in one trip.
Official Website
https://www.chichibu-railway.co.jp/en/steam-locomotive.html
Note: Advance reservation required
Access
- Kumagaya Station (transfer from JR Takasaki Line, Joetsu/Hokuriku Shinkansen)
- Yorii Station (transfer from JR Hachiko Line, Tobu Tojo Line)
- Ohanabatake Station (transfer from Seibu-Chichibu Station on the Seibu-Chichibu Line)
2. Tobu Railway “SL Taiju”
A sightseeing train linking the Kinugawa Onsen and Nikko areas. Its imposing body, retro interior, and resonant whistle set the tone for a nostalgic journey.
Panoramic views of the Daiya River gorge and mountains unfold outside, and many riders pair the trip with a soak in the hot springs.
Official Website
https://www.tobu.co.jp/en/sightseeing/nikko_kinugawa/sl/
Note: Seat reservation ticket required
Access
- Shimo-Imaichi Station (Tobu Nikko Line; transfer from the JR Nikko Line area)
3. Moka Railway “SL Moka”
A beloved local train running between Shimodate Station and Motegi Station.
The route is peaceful, with wide-open rural scenery. At the SL Kyuroku Museum, you can also see real steam engine train exhibits—highly recommended for rail enthusiasts.
Official Website（Available only in Japanese）
https://www.moka-railway.co.jp/sl-guide/
Note: Advance reservation required
Access
- Shimodate Station (Transfer from Kanto Railway Joso Line and JR Mito Line)
4.JR East “SL Gunma”
Departing from Takasaki Station, this authentic steam train runs on the Joetsu Line and Shinetsu-Main-Line.
It’s known for its powerful performance and distinctive rhythmic sounds.
Along the route are famous hot spring towns such as Kusatsu and Ikaho, making it ideal for a sightseeing train trip.
Official Website
https://www.jreast.co.jp/en/multi/joyful/slgunma.html
Note: Seat reservation ticket required
Access
- Takasaki Station (JR Lines, Joetsu / Hokuriku Shinkansen）
5. Oigawa Railway “Thomas the Tank Engine Train” and Steam Train “Kawaneji”
A popular steam train running along the Oigawa River in Shizuoka Prefecture.
The limited-time operation where you can actually ride “Thomas the Tank Engine” is a big hit with families.
Dramatic scenes of crossing ravines and iron bridges are true highlights of rail travel in Japan.
Official Website
https://daitetsu.jp/eng/sl
Note: Advance reservation required
Access
- Shin-Kanaya Station (transfer to Oigawa Railway from JR Tokaido Main Line at Kanaya Station)
Easily Search For Steam Train Travel Routes With “Japan Transit Guide Powered by Ekispert”
For trip planning, the “Japan Transit Guide Powered by Ekispert” is extremely handy.
Just enter your departure station and destination to see optimal routes—including steam trains—along with timetables and fares at a glance.
It supports English and is reassuring for first-time travelers in Japan.
Accessible from both PC and smartphone, it helps make sightseeing by train smooth and stress-free.
Feel Japan’s Timeless Scenery Aboard a Slow-Steaming Train
In the Kanto region, near Tokyo, you’ll find many steam trains that let you fully enjoy nature, culture, and hot springs.
Check routes and schedules with the “Japan Transit Guide Powered by Ekispert,” and set out on a rail journey that captures Japan’s nostalgia and beautiful landscapes.
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We hope you enjoy your trip to Japan using the country’s famously punctual public transportation!