[Oita] A must-see for railway fans! Experience the history of steam locomotives in an old engine shed. Includes tourist information for the area.
📝 Overview
The "Bungomori Roundhouse" in Kusu Town, Oita Prefecture, is a facility that was once used as a garage for steam locomotives (SLs) that ran on the JNR Kyudai Main Line.
The roundhouse, built in 1934, is the only one still standing in Kyushu, and is also designated as a national registered tangible cultural property.
It is now maintained as the "Bungomori Roundhouse Park," and also houses the "Roundhouse Museum," which displays materials related to SLs and railways, making it a must-see spot for railway fans.
✨ Recommended points
* Valuable roundhouse
The greatest attraction of the former Bungomori Roundhouse is, without a doubt, its roundhouse. It is the only roundhouse still standing in Kyushu, and its historical value is extremely high.
* SL display
In the park, the SL "C58 steam locomotive," which once ran on the Kyudai Main Line, is preserved in a static state. You can see the SL up close, and you will be overwhelmed by its power.
* Locomotive Museum
At the Locomotive Museum, various materials related to steam locomotives and railways are on display. You can learn about the history and mechanisms of railways.
👀Pay attention to this!
* Turntable
Next to the locomotive, there is a turntable for turning the steam locomotive. You can learn how the steam locomotive actually turned.
* Railway Diorama
At the Locomotive Museum, there is a railway diorama that recreates the Kyudai Main Line. Even if you are not a railway fan, you can enjoy the elaborately made diorama.
* Events
At Bungomori Locomotive Park, various events are held, such as events where steam locomotive whistles are sounded and railway model exhibitions.
🚗Sightseeing Information
The following tourist spots are located around the former Bungomori Locomotive.
* Mikazuki Falls: A beautiful waterfall located right next to Arashiyama Taki Shrine.
You can walk to the base of the waterfall and feel its power up close.
* Roadside Station Dowa no Sato Kusu: A roadside station selling Kusu town's local specialties and souvenirs.
There is also a restaurant and cafe, making it a convenient place to eat and take a break.
* Kirikabuyama: A symbolic mountain of Kusu town, from the summit you can see the entire Kusu Basin.
Recommended for hiking and picnics.
* Bungomori Locomotive Shed: A locomotive shed remaining on the site of the former JNR Bungomori Station, it is a must-see spot for railway enthusiasts.
Steam locomotives and diesel locomotives are on display.
* Fukayabakei: This area is considered to have particularly beautiful scenery even within Yabakei.
The scenery created by the oddly shaped rocks and cliffs is breathtaking.
These tourist spots can be accessed by car from the former Bungomori Locomotive Shed.
ℹ️Information
* Address: 36-15 Iwamuro, Kusu-machi, Kusu-gun, Oita Prefecture
* Access:
* About 3 minutes on foot from JR Bungomori Station
* About 3 minutes by car from Kusu IC on the Oita Expressway
* Opening hours:
* Bungomori Engine Shed Park: Open 24 hours
* Engine Shed Museum: 10:00-16:00 (Closed on Mondays, and the following day if a public holiday falls on a Monday)
* Fees:
* Bungomori Engine Shed Park: Free
* Engine Shed Museum: 100 yen
🖋️Summary
The former Bungomori Engine Shed is a recommended spot not only for railway fans, but also for those interested in history and culture. Be sure to visit and experience the history of steam locomotives.
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