“Japanese Rail Sim: Journey to Kyoto,” developed and published by Sonic Powered Co., Ltd., is a railway simulation game released on June 22, 2022. The game offers players the chance to experience railway driving using easy controls, such as the mascon and brake, while immersing themselves in beautifully captured Japanese scenery through full HD live-action video. Set on Kyoto’s Eizan Electric Railway, players navigate through picturesque landscapes, including the well-known “Maple Tunnel,” famous for its autumn foliage.
The simulation features all lines of the Eizan Electric Railway, allowing players to enjoy various routes repeatedly, with differing slopes on up and down lines enhancing gameplay variability. Two unique trains— the “Observation Train Kirara” and “Sightseeing Train Hiei”— allow players to experience different driving sensations. Additional features include a guidebook showcasing local sightseeing spots, temples, and shrines along the railway, as well as materials on historical vehicles.
For optimal performance, a 64-bit Windows 10 system with an Intel i5 processor and 16 GB RAM is recommended. The game is available for download from multiple links, though users are advised to purchase it to support developers.