SL 96 Train Museum

The SL 96 (pronounced “kyu-roku”) Train Museum is located in Moka City, Tochigi Prefecture. The museum, which stands next to Moka Station of the Moka Railway, displays steam locomotives and diesel-powered trains. The museum gets its name from the 9600 model steam train displayed within its building. This 9600 model is one of Japan’s representative locomotives of the Taisho era (1912-1926) and has been widely recognized by its nickname of “kyu-roku” (meaning 9 and 6).
The museum also operates a 9600 model steam locomotive three times a day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. The train powered by compressed air offers a rare opportunity to see an actual 9600 model steam train in action, so be sure to make a visit.
The 4th floor of the neighboring Information Center inside the Moka Station complex houses an “SL (meaning steam train in Japan) Gallery” where visitors can view an existing steam train shed, a turntable, and model trains in action. Visit both the gallery and the SL 96 Museum to learn more about the appeal of steam locomotive trains.