In the previous article, I introduced SL Taiju, and now, I’ll share our actual experience of riding this iconic train.
The car we rode in, Car No. 1, had a somewhat retro vibe. It featured box seats that could be rotated to face each other and tables by the windows, things that modern trains no longer have. Naturally, my kids were excited to explore these old-fashioned features.
However, if you reserve Car No. 2, you can enjoy a more immersive experience, with wooden handrails reminiscent of the 1950s, nostalgic face-to-face box seats, and an open-air observation deck where you can feel the wind and smoke firsthand.
It seems that the observation deck was open to all, but unfortunately, we didn’t get the chance to visit it. Such a missed opportunity!
If you’re looking for an authentic Showa-era experience, I recommend Car No. 2.
A Gentle Start and a Heartwarming Send-Off
With a gentle whistle, SL Taiju slowly started moving. As we left, people on the platform smiled and waved us off. I’m the kind of person who energetically waves back during these moments. And I have to say, the smiles of those seeing us off were incredibly warm and kind.
Just as I was feeling touched, more and more people outside started waving.
The season was mid-August, during the Obon holidays, and people waved at us from a cemetery on a hill, from grassy fields, from between trees where you’d wonder how they even got there, from cars, and from balconies. It felt like the entire city of Nikko was giving us a grand send-off. Curious about this warm reception, I did some research and found the answer.
A Community United Behind the "Let’s Wave at SL Taiju" Project
It turns out that this tradition is part of the “Together in Locomotion Council” and the “Let’s Wave at SL Taiju” Project, which aims to revitalize the Nikko and Kinugawa areas through the operation of SL Taiju.
The idea behind locomotion refers to the “powerful movement that gradually picks up momentum, like a steam locomotive.” The Tobu Railway encourages people to get involved with the "SL Revival Project," and it seems that many locals have enthusiastically joined in, waving to SL Taiju as it passes by.
Source:Learn More About SL Taiju (Tobu Railway)
There was no sense of obligation, though—just smiling faces as people waved at us, making me genuinely happy to be on board.
Some people had cameras out, capturing photos of SL Taiju, but they quickly shifted to waving with warm smiles, which made the experience even more heartwarming. There was even an onboard announcement saying, “This grandpa always waves from his balcony—let’s see if he’s here today!” And sure enough, he was, waving cheerfully as we passed. What a delightful tradition.
A Special Weekend Photo Session
On weekends and holidays, there’s an announcement for a group photo session. A photographer goes around to each group, offering to take a photo, but you can decline if you prefer not to participate.
Like many families, we rarely get good group shots during trips. While we often use the front camera for selfies, we can’t capture full family photos.
So, we decided to take part in this service and later bought the photo for 1,200 yen just before getting off. It was a nice touch to our trip, and I recommend preparing exact change for a smoother purchase!
The Journey Continues – More Adventures Await
As we left Shimo-imaichi Station, I realized the next stop was Tobu World Square, and right after that, the famous Kinugawa Onsen Station. Could this mean… there’s a hot spring nearby?
I asked my husband, and he agreed, “Let’s explore Tobu World Square first, then head to Kinugawa Onsen!” His spontaneous spirit aligned perfectly with mine.
A quick search confirmed that there were indeed several hotels near the station offering day-use hot springs.
So, we made up our minds—off to the hot springs after Tobu World Square!
Embracing Spontaneity at Its Finest
From Omiya, it had been about three hours since we started our journey.
Initially, the plan was to: “Take the express train, enjoy drinks from noon, and visit Tobu World Square.”
Then, it expanded to: “Take the express train, start drinking in the morning, take photos of the Ferris wheel, and ride SL Taiju to Tobu World Square.”
And finally, it evolved into: “Take the express train, drink in the morning, photograph the Ferris wheel, ride SL Taiju to Tobu World Square, and then head to a hot spring!”
It was shaping up to be the perfect day.
The Adventure Intensifies – Arriving at Tobu World Square
We finally arrived at Tobu World Square, our original destination. The time was just 11:00 AM. Given all the excitement of the morning, it was hard to believe it was still so early.
Our spontaneous journey had been incredible so far. Next up, a trip around the world at Tobu World Square! Stay tuned for the next article, where I’ll share our global adventure through this fascinating miniature park!
