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A Free Railway Museum Just Steps from Matsuyama City Station
In the heart of Matsuyama, there’s a uniquely charming museum. Admission is free, the exhibit is close to the station, and it’s located at the back of a Starbucks—an unexpected setting. It’s called the Botchan Train Museum. Here, visitors can explore the fascinating history of railways in the region, including the famous steam locomotive that seems to have stepped straight out of a novel from the Meiji era. In this article, we’ll walk you through its highlights and what you can see inside.
Botchan Train Museum
The Botchan Train Museum is a free railway museum that showcases the history of Iyo Railway. Through full-size replicas of steam locomotives from the Meiji era, as well as rare photos and parts from that time, visitors can get a sense of how railways evolved alongside the city of Matsuyama. It’s just a short walk from Matsuyama City Station, tucked away in the back of a Starbucks—a hidden gem that makes for a great stop between sightseeing or travel.
- Business hours
- 7:00 am - 9:00 pm
- Regular holiday
- Open year - round
- Fee
- Free
- Official site
- https://www.iyotetsu.co.jp/museum/
- How to visit
- 3 minutes on foot from Matsuyama City Station
- Address
- 1F, Iyotetsu Group Headquarters, 4 - 4-1 Minatomachi, Matsuyama City, Ehime 790 - 0012, Japan
Enter through the corridor at the back of the Starbucks. You don’t need to order anything from the café to view the exhibits.
What Is the Botchan Train? Its Literary Roots in Matsuyama
The nickname “Botchan Train” comes from the classic Japanese novel Botchan by Natsume Sōseki. In 1895, Sōseki came to Matsuyama as an English teacher and later wrote the novel based on his time there.
In the novel, there’s a line describing a train as “like a matchbox,” which many associated with the small steam locomotive operated by Iyo Railway at the time. That’s how the nickname was born.
Today, a restored version of the Botchan Train runs as a tourist tram along certain sections of the city’s streetcar lines.
Full-Size Replica of the Original Botchan Steam Engine: Locomotive No. 1
The centerpiece of the museum is a full-size replica of Locomotive No. 1, a steam engine that ran from 1888 for nearly 67 years.
This replica was recreated based on the actual train introduced when Iyo Railway was founded. It provides a vivid sense of Meiji-era railway history. The massive iron body and intricate details are so realistic that you might forget it’s a replica.
There’s no glass barrier—you can see the replica up close, and its scale and presence are truly overwhelming. It’s a must-see exhibit you should experience in person.
Historical Artifacts That Tell the Story of Iyo Railway
Inside the museum, you’ll find original artifacts such as early photos and train parts related to Iyo Railway. Each item—tools and records used throughout its long history—conveys the work and craftsmanship of the people who kept the railway running.
A Timeline and Panels Tracing the History of Iyo Railway and Matsuyama
One of the highlights is the chronological timeline introducing the development of Iyo Railway. It covers the evolution of the railway from the opening of its original routes and introduction of trains to company mergers and the transformation of local and suburban lines. Together, they vividly illustrate how the railway grew alongside the community.
A Miniature World Capturing the Cityscape of Matsuyama and Its Railway
The museum also features dioramas and miniature models of Iyo Railway, recreating the streets of Matsuyama both past and present. From station buildings and train tracks to everyday street scenes, everything is meticulously crafted to bring the city’s historical atmosphere to life.
Diorama of old Matsuyama and miniature model of Iyo Railway
This intricately crafted miniature world encapsulates the shared journey of the city and its railway. It’s a highlight that can be enjoyed by both adults and children alike.
A Compact Museum Experience in Just 15 Minutes
The museum is compact and efficiently organized, making it easy to explore in just about 15 minutes. Even if you take your time to see everything, you won’t need to rearrange your schedule—it’s perfect for a quick stop.
Many of the exhibits are photo-friendly, and visitors often enjoy taking commemorative photos in front of the full-size locomotive. It’s a short but memorable experience.
A Quiet Exhibit Space Hidden Behind a Café
Located inside the Iyotetsu Building’s first floor, the Botchan Train Museum shares its space with a Starbucks café. The exhibit is tucked away at the back, and you’re welcome to bring your drink while browsing the displays.
Despite being right near the station, the museum offers a calm and quiet atmosphere. It’s a pleasant spot to rest or wait for someone while learning something new.
A Convenient Spot Near the Station to Enjoy Railway History
Just steps from Matsuyama City Station, the Botchan Train Museum is a rare find—a free exhibit filled with authentic railway history. From full-size steam engines to historical artifacts and intricate dioramas, it packs a lot into a small space.
Whether you’re a train enthusiast or simply interested in local culture, this museum offers a relaxing and rewarding experience. It’s a great way to spend a little downtime while traveling—don’t miss it!
