Usui Pass Railway Culture Village Complete Guide | Attractions and Ways to Enjoy an Experiential Railway Theme Park
What is Usui Pass Railway Culture Village
Usui Pass Railway Culture Village (うすいとうげてつどうぶんかむら) is an outdoor railway museum located in Yokokawa, Matsui-machi, Annaka City, Gunma Prefecture. It opened on April 18, 1999, and was established as a facility to convey to future generations the history and culture of the former Usui Line that once ran through the Usui Pass, which was known as the most difficult section of the former national railway and JR.
The facility’s affectionate name is “PoppoTown,” which is a registered trademark of Annaka City. The facility is owned by Annaka City and operated by the Usui Pass Exchange Memorial Foundation, a general incorporated association, as the designated manager. As an experiential theme park that can be enjoyed not only by railway enthusiasts but also by families, it attracts many visitors throughout the year.
Overview and Characteristics of the Facility
The greatest characteristic of Usui Pass Railway Culture Village is that it is “experiential” rather than merely an exhibition facility. In addition to being the only place in Japan where you can experience operating a full-scale electric locomotive, a wide variety of content is available, including a rideable trolley train and mini steam locomotive, and learning at the railway materials museum—all of which allow you to see, touch, and learn.
Over 30 valuable railway vehicles are displayed in the park, many of which actually operated on the Usui Line. In particular, the EF63 electric locomotive was developed to overcome the steep grade of the Usui Pass, and being able to see the actual vehicle up close is a major attraction.
History and Development of Usui Pass Railway Culture Village
Historical Background of the Usui Line
The Usui Pass is located at the border between Matsui-machi, Annaka City, Gunma Prefecture, and Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture, at an elevation of 956 meters. Since the Meiji period, it was known as a “traffic bottleneck,” and the maximum grade of 66.7‰ (per mille) was rarely seen in Japanese railway history.
In 1893 (Meiji 26), Japan’s first rack railway system was introduced to overcome this difficult section. The rack railway system works by meshing gear teeth on the vehicle with a rack rail installed between the rails, allowing safe travel even on steep grades. Later, in 1963 (Showa 38), it was switched to a new adhesion operation method, and the era of the EF63 electric locomotive began.
Events Leading to the Opening of the Culture Village
On October 1, 1997 (Heisei 9), with the opening of the Nagano Shinkansen (now the Hokuriku Shinkansen), the Yokogawa-Karuizawa section of the Shin’etsu Main Line was abolished. With the closure of this line, the history of railway transportation over the Usui Pass came to an end, but with the cooperation of the former Matsui-machi town and JR East, plans were made to construct the Usui Pass Railway Culture Village to preserve the region’s valuable railway cultural heritage for future generations.
On April 18, 1999, the Usui Pass Railway Culture Village opened, utilizing the site of the former Usui Line. Since its opening, the facility has attracted railway enthusiasts and tourists with its distinctive experiential exhibits, including displays of actually-used vehicles and operation experience.
Operational Status and Development
More than 20 years have passed since the opening, and the Usui Pass Railway Culture Village continues to operate today as one of Gunma Prefecture’s premier tourist facilities. The designated management system has the Usui Pass Exchange Memorial Foundation handling management and operations, with continuous improvements being made to facility maintenance and new event planning.
In recent years, efforts have been focused on enriching seasonal events, special exhibitions, and experience programs so that not only railway enthusiasts but also families and tourists can enjoy the facility. Additionally, through cooperation with the Former Maruyama Substation, a nationally designated important cultural property, and the Usui Third Bridge (Megane Bridge), the facility contributes to the promotion of tourism throughout the Usui Pass area.
The Charm of Preserved Vehicles
One of the greatest attractions of the Usui Pass Railway Culture Village is the more than 30 valuable railway vehicles displayed in the park. These vehicles are valuable industrial heritage that tell the story of the Usui Line’s history, and are a must-see collection even for those who are not railway fans.
EF63 Electric Locomotive
The EF63 electric locomotive is a symbolic presence at the Usui Pass Railway Culture Village. From 1963 to 1997, this locomotive operated in the steep grade section of the Usui Pass and was specially designed to overcome the maximum grade of 66.7‰.
Multiple EF63s are preserved in the park, with some maintained in a currently operational state for operation experience. The red body and distinctive form of this locomotive symbolize the railway history of the Usui Pass and have captured the hearts of many railway enthusiasts.
Limited Express “Asama” Vehicles
Vehicles from the Limited Express “Asama” that operated on the Shin’etsu Main Line are also displayed. The limited express vehicles, including 189 series electric trains, operated as a major train connecting Ueno and Nagano. Some vehicles allow visitors to enter, so you can see the original seating arrangement and interior design.
Steam Locomotive (SL) Collection
Famous Japanese steam locomotives such as D51 and C62 models are on display. These SLs include not only locomotives that operated on the Usui Line but also famous engines from all over Japan, allowing visitors to learn about the history of steam locomotive development.
Some SLs are preserved in operating condition and can be ridden as mini SLs running through the park.
Special Vehicles and Maintenance Vehicles
In addition to electric locomotives and passenger cars, special vehicles such as snow removal vehicles and rail maintenance vehicles, which are rarely seen in everyday life, are on display. These vehicles are unsung heroes supporting safe railway operations and serve as valuable exhibits for understanding the railway system as a whole.
Past Preserved Vehicles
Since opening, various vehicles have been displayed, but due to age deterioration and exhibition space constraints, some vehicles have been transferred to other facilities or dismantled. However, major vehicles have received appropriate conservation treatment, and long-term preservation is planned going forward.
Learning Usui Line History at the Railway Materials Museum
The Railway Materials Museum inside the Usui Pass Railway Culture Village is a facility where you can systematically learn about the history and technology of the Usui Line. The content goes beyond mere display and allows for a deep understanding of the wisdom and technology of those who came before in overcoming the difficult terrain of the Usui Pass.
Exhibition Content
The Railway Materials Museum explains the history of the Usui Line from its opening to closure using abundant photographs, materials, and models. A sophisticated model explaining how the rack railway system works, actually-used signal equipment, and parts of an operating cab are among the many valuable materials on display.
Particularly noteworthy is the inclined surface experience corner where you can actually feel how steep a 66.7‰ grade is. By walking on a floor that recreates the actual slope, you can experience the severity of the Usui Pass firsthand.
Technical Exhibits
The special braking system of the EF63 electric locomotive and the rack rail mechanism of the rack railway system are explained in detail. For those interested in railway engineering, this is extremely comprehensive content.
Video Materials
Video footage of trains running on the Usui Line and precious documentary footage from before the line’s closure are also shown in the museum. By watching videos of how trains actually operated, you can imagine how the displayed vehicles once served.
Operation Experience Programs
One of the greatest attractions of the Usui Pass Railway Culture Village is its full-scale operation experience programs. This provides a rare opportunity to operate an actual electric locomotive, something that is difficult to experience at other railway museums.
EF63 Electric Locomotive Operation Experience
The EF63 electric locomotive operation experience is the only place in Japan where you can experience operating a full-scale electric locomotive. You can operate an actual locomotive that once served on the Usui Pass on a dedicated experience track.
The experience lasts approximately one hour. After receiving preliminary instruction, you operate the master controller under the guidance of an instructor to move the locomotive. The heavy lever operation and the acceleration unique to electric locomotives are a real experience that cannot be replicated by a simulator.
Operation experience requires advance reservation and has age restrictions (middle school students and older). Due to high popularity, early reservation is recommended.
Trolley Train “Shelpa-kun”
The trolley train “Shelpa-kun” that circles through the park is popular with families. It travels approximately 800 meters on actual rails over approximately 10 minutes.
From the trolley train, you can view the displayed vehicles from a different angle and enjoy a leisurely time while sensing the natural beauty of the Usui Pass. Different scenery can be enjoyed depending on the season, from fresh green leaves in spring to autumn foliage.
Mini SL Experience
A mini SL that recreates an actual steam locomotive at one-fifth scale operates in the park. It is very popular with young children, and the sight of it running with steam rising is authentic.
It primarily operates on weekends and holidays, circulating on a dedicated track in the park. While the ride time is short, it is an experience that can be enjoyed with all five senses, including the whistle of the SL and the scent of steam.
Model Train Operation Experience
Indoors, there are areas where you can freely operate model trains such as N gauge and Plarail. As a facility that can be enjoyed even on rainy days, it is popular with children.
Recreation Facilities and Family-Oriented Content
The Usui Pass Railway Culture Village, not only for railway enthusiasts but also for families, provides various recreation facilities and content that can be enjoyed for a full day.
Aput-kun (Mini Train)
The mini train “Aput-kun” that runs through the park is very popular with children. Named after the rack railway system used on the Usui Line, this train connects major spots in the park and is also convenient as a means of transportation.
Kids Play Area
A play area with equipment for small children is also set up, creating a space where even children not interested in railways can have fun. The layout makes it easy for adults to supervise, allowing you to let children play with peace of mind.
Railway Goods Shop
A well-stocked railway goods shop in the park sells Usui Pass Railway Culture Village original goods, railway models, books, souvenirs, and more. Miniature models of EF63 and Usui Pass-related commemorative items are popular as reminders of your visit.
Restaurant “Toge no Kamamesshi”
The restaurant in the park serves local flavors including “Toge no Kamamesshi,” a local specialty of Yokogawa. There are also railway-themed menu items, making dining another source of enjoyment.
Megane Bridge and Nearby Attractions
When visiting the Usui Pass Railway Culture Village, be sure to venture out to nearby railway heritage sites. In particular, the Usui Third Bridge (Megane Bridge) is a must-see spot.
Usui Third Bridge (Megane Bridge)
The Usui Third Bridge is a brick arch bridge completed in 1892 (Meiji 25) and designated as a national important cultural property. The 4-span arch with a total length of 91 meters and height of 31 meters is known as one of Japan’s largest brick arch bridges.
This bridge, affectionately known as the “Megane Bridge,” was constructed using approximately 2 million bricks and is a masterpiece that brings together the finest civil engineering technology of the Meiji period. It is now maintained as a pedestrian path and you can walk across the bridge.
It is about 10 minutes by car from the Usui Pass Railway Culture Village, and many tourists visit both as a set. It is a popular spot.
Former Maruyama Substation
The Former Maruyama Substation, built in 1912 (Meiji 45) when the Usui Line was electrified, is also designated as a national important cultural property. The heavy brick building has high value as an industrial heritage, and interior tours are also possible (limited periods).
Aput no Michi
“Aput no Michi,” a walking path utilizing the abandoned Usui Line track, is a popular hiking course that allows you to enjoy both the natural beauty of the Usui Pass and railway heritage. You can actually walk through bridges and tunnels, experiencing the route where trains once operated.
Access Information
Access to the Usui Pass Railway Culture Village is convenient by both train and car.
Access by Train
Yokogawa Station on the JR Shin’etsu Main Line is the nearest station, just a 5-minute walk away. From Takasaki Station to Yokogawa Station is approximately 30 minutes on the Shin’etsu Main Line, and from Ueno Station it takes approximately 2 hours using the Takasaki Line and Shin’etsu Main Line.
Yokogawa Station is at the base of the Usui Pass and was once the starting point of the Usui Line. The “Oginoya” main store, famous for “Toge no Kamamesshi,” is also located near the station and is worth visiting together.
Access by Car
By car, it is approximately 10 minutes from the Matsui Myoji Interchange on the Joshin’etsu Expressway. It is located along National Route 18, and with sufficient signage, you should not have trouble accessing it.
From the Karuizawa direction, it takes approximately 30 minutes using National Route 18 (old road) or the Usui Bypass. Many tourists visit combining shopping and sightseeing in Karuizawa.
Parking Information
The Usui Pass Railway Culture Village has free parking, accommodating approximately 220 regular cars and approximately 10 large buses. It may get crowded on weekends and during holidays, so arriving early is recommended.
Business Hours, Admission, and Helpful Information
Business Hours
Regular business hours are 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (March–October) and 9:00 AM–4:30 PM (November–February). Admission is until 30 minutes before closing time.
The park is closed on Tuesdays (or the following day if Tuesday is a holiday) and December 29–January 4. However, it operates without closure in August.
Admission Prices
- Adults (middle school students and older): 500 yen
- Elementary school students: 300 yen
- Preschool children: Free
Each experience program requires a separate fee:
- EF63 Electric Locomotive Operation Experience: 7,000 yen and up
- Trolley Train: Adults 400 yen, Elementary school students 300 yen
- Mini SL: 200 yen
Helpful Information
Group discounts (20 or more people) and annual passes are available. Additionally, combination tickets with nearby tourist facilities and discount coupons distributed during certain periods are available, so checking the official website in advance is recommended.
Discounts may apply with JAF card presentation and various preferential services.
Best Seasons to Visit and Event Information
Spring (March–May)
The season of fresh greenery is one of the most beautiful times of year at the Usui Pass. The views from the trolley train are refreshing, and with mild weather, it is ideal for family visits. Special events may be held during Golden Week.
Summer (June–August)
During the summer vacation period, special programs and events for children are abundant. The high elevation makes it cooler and more comfortable than lowland areas. August operates without closure, making it ideal for summer vacation research projects.
Autumn (September–November)
The autumn foliage season is when the entire Usui Pass area is most beautiful. The fall colors around the Megane Bridge are particularly spectacular, allowing you to enjoy the harmony of railway heritage and nature. Mid-October through early November is peak season.
Winter (December–February)
While business hours are shortened in winter, the railway vehicle displays in a snowy landscape are enchanting. However, some facilities may be unavailable due to snow, so advance confirmation is necessary.
Special Events
Throughout the year, various events are held including those related to Railway Day (October 14), summer vacation specials, and special vehicle viewings. The latest information can be found on the official website and social media.
Future Plans and Prospects
The Usui Pass Railway Culture Village, more than 20 years after opening, faces various challenges including facility aging and maintenance of preserved vehicles. However, as an important regional tourism resource and a facility for preserving valuable railway cultural heritage, continuous improvement and development are planned for the future.
Maintenance of Preserved Vehicles
Many of the displayed vehicles are exhibited outdoors, and deterioration from wind and rain is an issue. In the future, planned repainting and parts replacement are being undertaken to aim for long-term preservation. In particular, regular maintenance is being performed on the EF63 maintained in operating condition to continue offering operation experience.
New Exhibitions and Experience Programs
To respond to advancements in railway technology and visitor needs, development of new exhibitions and experience programs is also being considered. Enhancement of educational content with high value is expected, such as VR experiences utilizing digital technology and more detailed technical explanations.
Strengthening Regional Collaboration
Plans are underway to strengthen cooperation with nearby railway heritage sites such as the Megane Bridge and the Former Maruyama Substation, developing the entire Usui Pass area as one railway heritage tourism route. Collaboration with nearby tourist destinations such as Karuizawa is also being undertaken to attract more tourists.
Conclusion
The Usui Pass Railway Culture Village is a valuable facility where you can experience the history and culture of the Usui Line, which played an important role in a crucial chapter of Japanese railway history. With over 30 preserved vehicles, full-scale electric locomotive operation experience, and a comprehensive railway materials museum, there is so much to see that railway enthusiasts could not cover it all in one day.
On the other hand, trolley trains, mini SLs, and recreation facilities are also well-equipped, making it enjoyable for a wide range of people, including families. The excellent access just a 5-minute walk from Yokogawa Station is also appealing, allowing visits in combination with Karuizawa sightseeing.
The Usui Pass Railway Culture Village, where you can learn about and experience the technology and effort of predecessors who overcame Japan’s greatest railway challenge, the Usui Pass, through actual vehicles and materials. Whether you are a railway enthusiast, interested in history and technology, or planning to create family memories, this is definitely a facility worth visiting.
Visiting nearby important cultural properties such as the Megane Bridge and the Former Maruyama Substation will allow for a deeper understanding of the Usui Pass’s railway heritage. When visiting Gunma Prefecture, be sure to include the Usui Pass Railway Culture Village in your itinerary.
