Shizuoka Train Festa 2025, hosted at the Granship in Shizuoka City, stands as one of Japan’s premier model railway events, drawing train enthusiasts from all over the country. This expansive expo features a diverse lineup of model railway clubs presenting meticulously crafted N-gauge and HO-gauge dioramas. In this Part 1 coverage, viewers are taken through the vibrant atmosphere of the first day, highlighting everything from impressive train layouts to interactive experiences for both kids and adults.

Attendees can expect to see iconic trains such as the Dr. Yellow Shinkansen, Romancecar, ICE, and Twilight Express showcased in stunningly detailed and often whimsical dioramas. The event is especially family-friendly, offering fun activities like hands-on driving simulators and the opportunity to ride a model Catbus, inspired by the beloved Studio Ghibli film. A sushi-themed train layout creatively combines the Japanese conveyor belt sushi experience with running N-gauge trains, delighting visitors of all ages. International trains, including 3D-printed models and renowned brands like Märklin, broaden the expo’s appeal.

The model train displays reflect both nostalgic Japanese scenes and imaginative, sometimes humorous vignettes—such as Godzilla rampaging through a miniature metropolis, and Thomas the Tank Engine darting across tracks. The expo is also a marketplace for exclusive, limited-edition railway goods, making it a must-visit for dedicated collectors and families alike. With free admission and convenient access just steps from JR Higashi-Shizuoka Station, Shizuoka Train Festa provides a welcoming space to celebrate Japan’s passion for railways.

Granship, the event venue, is a well-known convention and event center in Shizuoka City, offering easy transportation links and plenty of space for elaborate model layouts and crowds of visitors. The festival not only entertains but also fosters community among Japan’s top railway model clubs, including the F9 Diorama Club, Suha no Kai, Aichi Deaf Model Railway Club, Nagoya HO Club, and many others. Whether you’re fascinated by authentic train operations, seeking out hidden surprises, or simply looking to enjoy some ekiben (station bento) while watching the trains go by, the Shizuoka Train Festa is a standout event for railfans and cultural explorers alike.

Stay tuned for Part 2 for more rare trains, advanced model layouts, and scenes from the bustling marketplace of this unique Japanese festival.