This detailed event report covers the KATO Railway Park Festival, held at the headquarters and factory of KATO, Japan’s largest N-gauge railway model manufacturer, in Tsurugashima City, Saitama Prefecture, on June 8th, 2025. The festival transforms the premises into a railway-themed wonderland, drawing in railway fans, families, and hobbyists alike for a unique experience.

The KATO Railway Park Festival is more than just a model train gathering – it’s an immersive event showcasing both large-scale railway models and real, working historical locomotives. Attendees could participate in a stamp rally with prizes such as clear files and keychains, browse exclusive goods at booths hosted by Tobu Railway and Furusato tax contributors, and check out special merchandise like train ticket memo pads. One of the main highlights was the dynamic running displays of actual steam and diesel locomotives, typically stored on site but brought to life during the festival for up-close enjoyment.

Several notable vehicles featured in live demonstrations: ‘Oliver’, a Belgian-built steam locomotive from 1948 with a unique history spanning Belgium, Taiwan, and Nagano; ‘Oscar’, a brand-new 2023 steam engine inspired by 18th-century British designs; ‘Billy’, a lively Japanese engine from 1954; and the Seibu Railway No. 523, a 1928 B10-class German-built steam locomotive. The colorful ‘Otogi Train’ and nostalgically designed ‘Izumi’ from the Ogoya Railway also delighted visitors, as did the chance to spot ‘Percy’ from Thomas the Tank Engine in the depot. These vehicles, normally kept in storage, roared to life along rails laid out over KATO’s expansive grounds, with KATO’s own president even taking the helm at times, giving an authentic, memorable touch for visitors.

Beyond rideable trains and displays, the festival offered a vibrant market area with model train sales and lottery draws, including the popular KATO lottery. Miniature diorama workshops let participants create their own small railway scenes. When there are no festivals, the site allows limited viewing of stored rolling stock through windows—making it a worthwhile stop even on non-event days for train fans visiting Saitama’s Tsurugashima area.

KATO Railway Park is located at 52-21 Tsurugaoka, Tsurugashima City, Saitama Prefecture (〒350-2204 埼玉県鶴ヶ島市鶴ヶ丘５２−２１). Entry is free, and events are held periodically—always check the official website for up-to-date schedules. The festival embodies the depth of railway culture in Japan and offers an interactive destination for travelers eager to experience the country’s railway heritage up close. It is a must-see for railway enthusiasts, model hobbyists, and families looking for a unique day out near Tokyo.