SCMaglev and Railway Park

The SCMaglev and Railway Park in Minato Ward, Nagoya, is the flagship railway heritage museum of JR Central, the operator of Japan's Tokaido Shinkansen, and one of the most technically impressive transport museums in the world. The museum houses 39 actual shinkansen trainsets on elevated display tracks, spanning every generation from the original 0 Series (1964) through the 100 Series, 300 Series, and 700 Series, to the experimental SCMaglev L0 Series prototype that holds the world rail speed record of 603 km/h. Visitors can climb aboard and explore the interiors of multiple trainsets, providing a rare opportunity to compare seating, design, and engineering philosophy across six decades of high-speed rail development. The SCMaglev L0 Series prototype stands as the centrepiece, sleek and aerodynamic, surrounded by interactive exhibits explaining electromagnetic levitation physics and the engineering principles behind ultra-high-speed ground transport. Three full-scale driving simulators — replicating the experience of piloting a 0 Series, 700 Series, and N700 Series shinkansen respectively — are the museum's most sought-after experiences; simulator slots must be reserved in advance online as they fill weeks ahead of peak periods. The museum also houses Japan Rail's largest N-gauge model railway diorama, depicting the landscape between Tokyo and Osaka with multiple automated train movements running continuously on dozens of tracks. A miniature rideable railway in the lower level caters to younger visitors. The museum is 15 minutes from Nagoya Station by the Kinjo Futo subway line. Plan 2 to 3 hours; dedicated rail enthusiasts and families with children easily spend 4 or more.