Not far from the Fuji Five Lakes, the Maglev Exhibition Center (jA©wZ^[, Linear Kengaku Center) was opened in 2011 along the test track for the next-generation, magnetic levitating (maglev) trains that can run at over 500 km/h. The technology will be used for the Chuo Shinkansen, a new train line that is scheduled to begin operation in 2027 between Tokyo and Nagoya and will eventually be extended to Osaka.
The exhibition center is a museum where visitors can learn about the science and history of maglev trains. Here you can see and touch the actual trains and their structures, including the vehicle that set the train speed world record of 603 kilometers per hour, and try hands-on experiments with maglev technology. The center also features a miniature maglev train that visitors can ride.
Furthermore, it is possible to observe test runs along the track from the center on most weekdays and Saturdays. Operation dates for each week are usually posted to the official website on the previous Friday evening; however, operation times are only announced at the facility itself.
It is also possible to ride the trains during their test runs during certain times of the year; however, reservations are required and must be made about two to three months in advance. More information can be found at the JR Central website (Japanese only).
Getting there and around
Take the JR Chuo Line from Tokyo's Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station (60 minutes, 2360 yen one way by limited express or 80-90 minutes, 1340 yen by slower trains with a transfer along the way). At Otsuki, change to a bus bound for the Linear Exhibition Center (15 minutes, 300 yen one way, every 1-2 hours). The Japan Rail Pass and other JR passes are valid on the trains but not on the bus.
Alternatively, at Otsuki Station transfer to the Fujikyu Railway for Kawaguchiko and get off at Tanokura (5 minutes, 230 yen, 1-2 trains/hour) from where the Maglev Exhibition Center is a 20-30 minute walk. The Tokyo Wide Pass is valid on Fujikyu trains, but the Japan Rail Pass and other JR passes are not.
A taxi ride between Otsuki Station and the center costs 2500-3000 yen one way.
How to get to and around the Fuji Five Lakes
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