Full Breakdown
Historic Steam Locomotive C57 Set to Resume Tourist Service After Six-Year Pause
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Core Event
A restored class C57 steam locomotive, nicknamed Kifujin (“noble lady”), completed a test run on the 62.9-kilometre stretch of the Yamaguchi Line between Shin-Yamaguchi and Tsuwano stations. The locomotive, built in 1937, will re-enter commercial tourist service in early October, ending a hiatus of roughly six years.
Background and Restoration Effort
The C57 first entered service on the “SL Yamaguchi-go” tourist train in 1979 under the former Japanese National Railways (JNR). After JNR’s 1987 privatization, the train continued under West Japan Railway Company (JR West). In October 2020 the locomotive stranded due to a piston problem; with original steam-locomotive parts no longer available, JR West commissioned a ship-parts manufacturer to fabricate replacements. Repair work was carried out at a Kyoto train yard and concluded in late July of this year, followed by test runs last month.
Official Statements & Responses
JR West official Shingo Harada explained that the long suspension had left passengers waiting and expressed hopes that the upcoming “Destination Campaign” – a joint tourism promotion by Yamaguchi prefectural authorities and JR Group companies – will draw visitors from across Japan to experience the revived steam service.
Impact on Regional Tourism
The locomotive’s return aligns with the “Destination Campaign,” aimed at revitalizing tourism in Yamaguchi and Shimane prefectures. By offering a nostalgic rail experience, the service is expected to boost ridership on the Yamaguchi Line and stimulate local economies along the route.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We have kept customers waiting for a long period of time,” — Shingo Harada, a JR West official