🗺️ Nagatoro Steam Train

The Nagatoro Steam Train SL PALEO Express primarily operates on weekends and runs on the scenic Chichibu Railway. The journey from the starting point, Kumagaya Station, to the endpoint, Mitsumineguchi Station, takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes. Passengers can enjoy the beautiful changing scenery of the four seasons through the train windows while leisurely experiencing a nostalgic train ride. The steam locomotive pulling the passenger cars is the famous C58363, produced in 1944. Its glossy black body is very attractive. C58363 was retired in 1972 but made a comeback in 1988 and continues to run on the Chichibu line. The steam train, billowing thick smoke, gracefully weaves through the picturesque mountains, creating a unique and beautiful landscape in Chichibu. The starting point of the Nagatoro Steam Train SL PALEO Express is Kumagaya Station. Many travelers arrive early to find good photo spots and then wait for the arrival of the "SL PALEO Express," which backs into the platform. The sight of the massive black train approaching is quite striking. There is some time between the train's arrival and departure, allowing for leisurely photography. While a regular train takes only an hour and a half, the steam train takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes. However, passengers can sit comfortably in their seats, enjoying the captivating views outside the window and taking plenty of photos. Along the route, there are many wooden station buildings with charming retro appearances that are also quite appealing. Riding the Nagatoro steam train allows you to appreciate the pastoral scenery of Chichibu, the Arakawa Gorge, the Chichibu mountains, and the retro-style station buildings, providing an experience of a train journey that encounters Japan's original landscapes.

The SL train mainly operates on weekends. It takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes from the starting point, Kumagaya Station, to the final destination, Mitsumineguchi Station. The powerful and impressive SL "C58363" features a massive black carriage that is truly striking. Passengers can enjoy the picturesque rural scenery of Chichibu, the Arakawa Gorge, the mountains of Chichibu, and the retro-style station buildings along the way.