The healing properties of model railway sets are well documented. Especially if they run around a tiny model village full of tiny model people. In these tumultuous times, it’s nice to know these trains will keep running with certainty along their prescribed track.

Source: (C) Grape Japan

At Bar Ginza Panorama in Shibuya, you can enjoy a quiet drink surrounded by the soothing clacking of model trains going about their evening. The counter table surrounds an impressive replica of Shibuya complete with iconic crossing and Shibuya 109 department store. Various model trains rush around, replicating the bustle of the real deal.

If you’re into this sort of thing, you can even bring along your own train to run around the track.

Source: (C) Grape Japan

Japan’s train system is world-famous for punctuality, speed and for being confusing for tourists. The country has a subculture of die-hard train otaku (super-fans) who take interest in many different aspects of this indispensable public transport. It’s not an uncommon sight in Tokyo stations to see the train enthusiasts out in force, photographing specific services to cross off their list.

However, it’s also fair to say that train spotting and model railways are still somewhat of a niche hobby, even in Japan. The owner of Bar Ginza Panorama wants to make it clear that anyone is welcome to enjoy the chilled atmosphere and charming models, not just people who can tell their Skyliners from their Romancecars. After a stressful day at work, unwinding at this bar could be what gets you back on track.


By - grape Japan editorial staff.