Shimbashi once was the terminal stop for the trains that ran between Yokohama and Tokyo in 1872 for the first time. A steam locomotive from 1945 was placed there in 1972 to commemorate 100 years of Shimbashi's rail history. The engine is illuminated at night with color rotation and it's a very popular spot to meet, especially on Friday nights. Watch out for the crowds of Japanese 'salarymen'.
- 1 min read
Steam Locomotive at Shimbashi
Popular meeting place for Tokyo's salarymen

Community writer

Steam Locomotive at Shimbashi Station (Photo: Manish)

Waiting for friends is the most common use of the space in front of the SL Engine (Photo: Manish)

The SL Engine at Shimbashi Station (Photo: Manish)

Illumination at the SL Engine at night (Photo: Manish)

Shimbashi is full of lights and you'll find many people in front of the station on a Friday night (Photo: Manish)

The SL Engine shows some action at 12:00, 15:00 and 18:00, when the horns are sounded for a few seconds (Photo: Manish)
Join the discussion
Sleiman Azizi
4 years ago
I've never forgotten that first memory of seeing the locomotive while on the train passing through. Very impressive.
1 comment in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Sado Island Kodo Earth Celebration 2025: Music, Traditions, Taste Tour
Niigata -
2
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
3
Kyushu Craftsmanship and Traditions Heritage Tour
Article -
4
Capcom Tokyo
Tokyo -
5
Kamenoi Hotel Atami
Shizuoka - Sponsored -
6
70 Nations, One Amazing Meal
Osaka - Sponsored -
7
Shirakawa-go Named on World's Top Small Towns List
Planning -
8
Hokkaido Full Immersion Tour
Hokkaido -
9
Honzawa Ranch Observation Deck
Hokkaido -
10
Mt. Fuji Hike 2025: New Safety Rules & Registration Guide
Shizuoka - Sponsored
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
3
Sanja Matsuri
Tokyo -
4
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5
May Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
6
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Kyoto -
7
Adachi Fireworks
Tokyo -
8
Daikoku Car Meet
Kanagawa -
9
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
10
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto