The origin of its name

The 19th century was a century of great change, from establishment of various academic societies to the onset of the Industrial Revolution the gave birth to technologies that support even our modern daily lives today. It is no exaggeration to say that the emergence of the steam engine was a major factor in changing logistics and making Japan the technological superpower that it is today. In the 19th Century Hall, not only are the steam locomotives that have supported our history displayed in their original state, the hall also features a piano and a large organ that played a role in the development of music and art, creating an elegant and luxurious space for visitors to enjoy.

Up Close with a Real Steam Locomotive

Actual steam locomotives are on display inside the hall. They look fully functional, as though they could run on rail at any moment. Locomotives here include the D51, C56, C58, and the steam train Wakataka; the Wakataka was remodeled by students of the former Japanese National Railways Takatori Factory Technician Training Institute in September 1939.

The Pianos Loved by Masters

The Bosendorfer piano was loved by the masters of 19th-century classical music: Beethoven, Chopin, Schubert, Brahms, Mendelssohn, and Dvorak.
The Imperial Bosendorfer grand piano on display here has nine extra keys at the bass end, for a total of 97 keys. It is no wonder this model is considered by many to be the best grand piano in existence, as the extra keys test the limits of the range of sound discernible to the human ear. The piano on display is also etched with the family crest of the Habsburgs of Germany.
Also on display is the Quantum by Allen Organs, which combines the latest electronic technology with a large-scale organ, considered the queen of musical instruments for many years.