By MOOK Scenic Spots Home Travel Life Network Editorial Department
The opening of the “Kyoto Railway Museum” has awakened fond memories of steam trains (abbreviated as “SL” in Japanese), and the sight of a retro black steam locomotive speeding through mountain forests is a delight for railway enthusiasts. With nearly 10,000 stations across Japan, many steam trains are still in service. Travel companies have therefore released a list of Japan’s Top 10 Steam Trains, featuring nostalgic rides such as the Shizuoka Prefecture SL Express full of Showa-era charm, the five-carriage SL Yamaguchi, and the melodious SL Banetsu Monogatari.
The SL Express has a presence that regular trains lack—definitely worth experiencing. (Image provided by Rakuten Travel)
1st Place: Japan’s Only Non-Stop Daily SL Express (Oigawa Railway 0 Series Steam Locomotive)
Region: Shizuoka Prefecture
The top-ranked steam train is the well-known “SL Express,” which offers breathtaking views of the Oigawa River countryside. The roughly 1 hour and 20 minute journey from Shin-Kanaya to Chubu Station takes passengers through scenic landscapes. The Showa-style carriages feature classic old seats and exclusive bento meals. It is Japan’s only steam train that runs every day of the year without interruption, and is beloved by many passengers.
Riding the SL Yamaguchi stirs up a sense of nostalgia for the Showa era. (Image provided by Rakuten Travel)
2nd Place: The Five-Carriage SL Yamaguchi (JR West 0 Series Steam Locomotive)
Region: Yamaguchi Prefecture ~ Shimane Prefecture
Coming in second place is the five-carriage SL Yamaguchi, manufactured in 1937, which was once retired but returned to service in 1979. It operates on the route between Shin-Yamaguchi and Tsuwano, covering about 63 kilometers one way with a travel time of around 2 hours. Service runs on weekends and holidays between March and November.
The SL Banetsu Monogatari is cherished by locals. (Image provided by Rakuten Travel)
3rd Place: The “Gentlewoman” of Trains – SL Banetsu Monogatari (JR East 0 Series Steam Locomotive)
Region: Niigata Prefecture ~ Fukushima Prefecture
The “SL Banetsu Monogatari,” traveling from Niigata Prefecture to Fukushima Prefecture, is known as the “Gentlewoman” for its elegant appearance. Originally set to retire after its final run on the Banetsu West Line in 1969, it made a comeback in April 1999, bringing back the long-missed sound of its whistle along the Banetsu Line. It mainly operates on weekends and holidays between April and September.
Steam trains take people back to the wonderful moments of their youth. (Image provided by Rakuten Travel)
4th Place: The Centennial Sightseeing Steam Train SL Hitoyoshi (JR Kyushu 0 Series Steam Locomotive)
Region: Kumamoto Prefecture
The “SL Hitoyoshi” train, launched to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the full opening of the JR Hisatsu Line, not only features retro-style carriages but also offers cozy observation lounges and buffet meals onboard. Passengers can enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Kuma River gorge while listening to the train’s whistle. It mainly runs on Fridays and holidays between April and November.
Visit the SL Fuyu-Moegi in winter to discover unique travel pleasures. (Image provided by Rakuten Travel)
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