Umegahara, Maibara, Shiga Prefecture
Rating
Cost per person
¥500
Located a short 5-minute walk from JR Maibara Station's East Exit, the Shinkansen High-Speed Test Vehicle Preservation Area displays three retired Shinkansen test vehicles used in the development of high-speed rail. While typically viewed from outside a fence, a special public opening event in October allows visitors to enter the grounds and see inside the vehicles. These unique trains, including the 300X, WIN350, and STAR21, represent the cutting edge of Japanese railway technology. Train enthusiasts will appreciate this rare opportunity to see these experimental designs up close. Check the schedule for the annual public viewing to get the full experience.