ABOUT
About this spot
The Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park in Annaka City, Gunma Prefecture, is a railway theme park conveying to this day the history of Usui Pass, once a difficult stretch of the Shin'etsu Main Line. The park has more than 30 valuable vehicles, from steam locomotives to electric locomotives, on outdoor display, including the "EF63 electric locomotive" that once supported this steep gradient, and some vehicles can be entered up to the driver's seat. There is also a driving experience course (reservation and lecture required) for the "EF63 electric locomotive," rare even in Japan, fulfilling the dream of railway fans. For families, the steam locomotive "Aptokun" that circles the park, hand-pumped trolleys, and mini SLs are hugely popular. It is also the base of the adjoining "Apt no Michi" walking trail, and a stroll tracing the abandoned railway line to the Important Cultural Property "Megane-bashi" (Spectacles Bridge) is recommended. It is a spot just right for a weekend outing, where you can feel history, nature, and the heartbeat of railways up close.
Last updated March 28, 2026