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Activity Information
Kaizuka is a charming city nestled between Namba and Kansai Airport, where you can experience a very rare and popular activity, specifically to operate an authentic retro train owned by the Mizuma Rail Company. This extremely popular activity is also quite rare as it is held only once per month, and usually the available slots fill up the moment the experience becomes available to reserve. We are now offering this experience with an option to add an English guide, so even visitors from abroad can enjoy this unique activity.
Mizuma Railway, the first all-stainless steel local electric railway in Japan
Mizuma Railway is a local rail company that was founded over a century ago and is highly popular among the locals even today. It was the first rail company to use all-stainless steel train cars and boasts a station building built with rails manufactured in the U.S. in the 19th century. It has a unique nostalgic feeling to it, one of many reasons why it is so popular among locals and rail enthusiasts alike.
▼The first retro all-stainless steel train in Japan, a must for railroad fans.
▼A 19th-century U.S. railroad rail being reused in the station building.
Retro station designated as a national tangible cultural property
The tour starts from the Mizuma Station, which is designated as a national tangible cultural property. The station building is made of reinforced concrete, which was unusual for the time. It preserves its unique nostalgic appearance until present day. After you arrive at the starting point, kick off the tour with a commemorative snapshot.
▼Arrival at the Mizuma Station. Let the fun begin!
Hop on board the real train and let’s get started!
A three-minute walk from the station to the nearby train depot brings you face to face with an actual, fully functional train. Cross the tracks and hop on board!
▼The sight of the train on tracks up close is quite impressive.
▼All aboard!
Learn the tricks of the trade
First, you will learn about the purpose of the experience, about what it means to be a train engineer, as well as the operation and safety of the train directly from a professional instructor. After that you will observe a professional train engineer operating the train before you get a chance to try it yourself.
▼The instructor explains everything gently and carefully.
▼Next, the engineer will show you how to operate the train.
▼Professional handiwork
Finally it is your turn!
After you have learned how to operate the train from a professional, it is time to try it yourself. This experience includes three loops of 100 meters with a speed limit of 10 km/h. The first two runs are for practice, but your third run will serve as a test of your skills and will be scored.
This extremely rare activity offers you a chance to experience operating an actual train. Feel the rail tremble beneath this mechanical beast as you bring it to motion, with the vibration from the mighty engine resonating within your own body.
This extremely rare activity offers you a chance to experience operating an actual train. Feel the rail tremble beneath this mechanical beast as you bring it to motion, with the vibration from the mighty engine resonating within your own body.
▼Caps on and ready to go!
▼Forward check! Good visibility! No obstacles! Off we go!
▼The heavy train roars to life and begins to move.
▼Unforgettable view from the train.
▼The very definition of focus.
▼After two practice runs, it is time to put your skills to the test.
▼On your third run, the instructor will keep a sharp eye on you.
▼A look of relief after successfully completing the test.
Finish the experience with a certificate and a commemorative photo
Upon successful completion, the instructor will inform you of the test results and present you with a Certificate of Completion, given only to test participants. By the time the experience is over, you will have become a part of the team with the instructor and the train engineer and take home much more than just a sense of accomplishment.
▼You will receive a unique Certificate of Completion.
▼You can add your own photo into the certificate as well!
▼Receiving the certificate inside the train makes it all the more special.
Optionally you can add your own head sign!
This popular option lets you not only operate the train, but also make the experience completely unique by adding a custom head sign to the front of the train. This option is perfect for events, anniversaries, celebrations and more.
*In case you wish to book the head sign option, please provide us with the digital data to be used for the head sign at least two weeks in advance.
*In case you wish to book the head sign option, please provide us with the digital data to be used for the head sign at least two weeks in advance.
▼One-of-a-kind head sign
▼A half-size replica is also included for you to take home as a souvenir.
Unforgettable memories of your first time operating a train
Time flies when you are having fun and it sure flies during this unique, exciting experience.
As the final part of the experience, take a commemorative photo in front of the train together with the instructor and the train engineer. This experience is perfect for Japanese and foreign visitors alike.
As the final part of the experience, take a commemorative photo in front of the train together with the instructor and the train engineer. This experience is perfect for Japanese and foreign visitors alike.
