SnowCountry - Arrive in Style

The Japanese have an amazing, modern train system but there is a way to go back to the past and travel in style. Several steam engines are still in service and running the line between Takasaki and Minakami in Snow Country.

It is a great way to travel and is a big hit with the train-mad population. When the steam train arrives at Minakami on the weekend there are hordes of fans armed with cameras jostling to get a photo. You'd think it was a royal visit coming into town by the crowds. If you are around Minakami at midday the steam train is on display for a while, posing for photos, before making the return trip.