The roundhouse was designed to accommodate up to 12 steam locomotives simultaneously during its peak operation.
It is one of the few remaining 'fan-shaped' sheds in Japan built from reinforced concrete rather than wood or brick.
The central turntable was engineered to rotate locomotives 180 degrees to align them with the correct stalls for maintenance.
During the Second World War, the site sustained damage from aircraft machine-gun fire, with some bullet holes still reportedly visible on exterior surfaces.
The facility was completely decommissioned from active railway service in 1971 following the transition to diesel engines.
The Bungo Mori Roundhouse is a rare, fan-shaped reinforced concrete locomotive depot constructed in 1934 in Kusu, Oita Prefecture. It features a unique 12-track fan-shaped track layout surrounding a central locomotive turntable. The site was designated a Registered Tangible Cultural Property of Japan in 2012. It served as a vital hub for steam locomotives operating on the Kyudai Main Line. Today, the facility functions as a railway park and open-air museum where visitors can walk directly into the locomotive bays. A decommissioned JNR Class KiHa 59 (the 'Aso Boy' train) is permanently displayed on-site. The site remains one of the few surviving roundhouses in Japan that retains its original architectural integrity. The adjacent Bungo Mori Train Museum provides historical context regarding the evolution of local rail transport.
Position yourself at the center of the turntable facing the open fan-shaped bays to capture the symmetrical geometry of the structure.
Wear sturdy, comfortable footwear as the ground within the roundhouse bays consists of gravel and uneven historical sleepers.
Bring sun protection as the site is almost entirely outdoors with very limited shaded shelter within the bays.
Check for temporary event closures, as the site is occasionally used for local community gatherings and rail enthusiast festivals.
Trying to access the site after dark, as the lighting is minimal and safety hazards exist within the uneven rail tracks.
Closed on certain days of the week, typically Tuesdays; check local municipal calendars for potential maintenance closures.
Do not climb onto the top of the displayed train cars or touch the sensitive historical signaling equipment.
