If you're a fan of urban dioramas, the massive HO-gauge Yokohama-region layout here is well worth checking out. It's one of the main attractions at this railway company museum, along with a full-size historic train carriage dating back to 1929. Admission is free, though there is a small fee for some activities.

The room-size diorama at the heart of the museum measures twelve meters from end to end. It features some very recognizable Yokohama department stores and landmark buildings and even a small airport. The landscape has rolling hills and tunnels, with a few unexpected surprises like a tiny marina and a modern beachfront vacation property with pool. Keep an eye out for Keikyu Railway's mascot, who is hidden somewhere in the scenery.

If it's not too crowded, you can sit behind a mock train conductor's control panel and experience a simulated ride along the tracks. Start and stop the model train as you like, and watch the miniature scenery pass by - a small video screen shows the view from a camera mounted on the front of the train. A three-minute ride costs Y100, and participation is first-come, first-served.

Overlooking the diorama is the old train carriage, officially designated Deha No. 236. The car is accessed via a realistic-looking raised platform, and it's filled with vintage advertising posters. The walls are lined with photographs of the train in operation, and display cases at the back of the car show off tickets and route maps from various eras. The car was retired from service in 1978.

The museum is also equipped with a mock bus driver's cab, where you can sit and watch a driver's-eye display of a simulated run. Nearby is a hands-on, full-fledged train simulator, which costs Y500 for a session. A small library and activity area are in the far corner. Children's activities include creating your own original train design and then producing a paper model of your design to take home. Advance reservations are required, and the fee is Y1,000.

Outside the museum is a set of train-themed benches where you can relax after your visit. And in case you haven't gotten your fill of train-themed dioramas, the Hara Model Railway Museum is located just around the corner, and it boasts not one but two very large layouts, one representing Yokohama and one set in a European village.