Japan is renowned worldwide for many things, among which its railway system stands out. The trains here inspire envy due to their punctuality, cleanliness, modernity, and convenience for the daily lives of its citizens. This is why the country, often associated with anime, is considered the spiritual home of the anime genre related to trains. Below, we will explore some remarkable anime featuring trains:
8. Train Heroes
Train Heroes – Trailer
This anime series is friendly for children and enjoyable for the entire family. Its storyline is set in the year 2100, where the world has advanced into a stage of automated railway systems. To ensure the safety of the “Laser Rail” system surrounding the globe, AI-powered trains and human-machine interfaces known collectively as “Train Heroes” have been created.
7. Miracle Train: Welcome to the Oedo Line
Miracle Train – AMV
This series revolves around a mysterious train that travels underground, often appearing to help women in distress during their everyday lives. Onboard, they are greeted by charming male staff members named after famous train stations along the Oedo Line in Tokyo.
6. Night on the Galactic Railroad
Night on the Galactic Railroad – Trailer
Based on a short story by author Miyazawa Kenji, this anime features anthropomorphic characters, primarily cats, embarking on an ethereal journey. “Night on the Galactic Railroad” tells the story of a young cat named Giovanni who travels through the cosmos on a train that moves faster than light.
5. The Galaxy Railways
The Galaxy Railways – Trailer
This series follows Yuki, a young boy who wishes to carry on the legacy of his father and brother by joining the Space Defense Force to protect the galaxy’s railways. Throughout his journey, Yuki encounters Layla, a mysterious girl with the unique ability to foresee the fate of passengers, but she is often hindered by what she sees.
4. Rail Wars!
Rail Wars! – Trailer
“Rail Wars!” unfolds in an alternate history where Japan’s railway system is yet to be privatized, and the story follows Takayama Naoto, a student training to become a train conductor. However, he ends up caught in a security unit responsible for maintaining order within the railway system.
3. Tetsuko no Tabi
Tetsuko No Tabi 01
“Tetsuko no Tabi” is an anime based on the real-life journey of Yokomi Hirohiko, a Japanese author, who traveled to various train stations across the country. It combines elements of manga and storytelling, creating a unique narrative that highlights the beauty of Japan’s railways.
2. 5 Centimeters Per Second
5 Centimeters Per Second – Trailer
A poignant work by director Shinkai Makoto, this anime depicts the story of Takaki and Akari, childhood friends who become emotionally distant as they are separated by distance. The film illustrates how trains and travel play a crucial role in their relationship.
1. Galaxy Express 999
Galaxy Express 999 – Trailer
“Galaxy Express 999” is an iconic anime series that needs no introduction. Set in a futuristic universe where humans often exchange their physical bodies for machinery, it follows the journey of a boy named Tetsuro who transforms his life after meeting Maetel, a mysterious woman resembling Tetsuro’s deceased mother.
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