New Member in Japan


T

Thomas1

New Member
Howdy, I love trains and train culture. I'm looking to purchase my first model railroad set. Would like to start with a Japan Shinkansen set.
I'll be living in Japan a few years, but I'd like to get something that is compatible with US power standards. Any suggestions on where to buy decent used gear, etc. would be most appreciated. Any starter considerations would be helpful too. Layout, gauge selection, etc.

Many Thanks.
 
That's really great. I've been to Tokyo last year and I'm in complete awe with their JR's densha, the green one. But I can't find where can I purchase a model replica. Also, I would like to see the Tamatebako densha in Kyushu.
 
Welcome aboard!

eBay is the source for used stuff, but beware some used stuff can be unreliable. Some dealers offer used things as well. The inventory is hit or miss. Trainz.com is one dealer that sells used stuff https://www.trainz.com/

I would suggest you stay away from used stuff until you get more experience.

Suggestions on scale are going to be biased. I recommend O because I am a fan of Lionel. https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_...mes&field-keywords=Lionel+lionchief+Train+Set Lots to choose from.

HO has probably the largest inventory available. https://www.amazon.com/Bachmann-Tra...999080&sr=8-1&keywords=bachmann+dcc+commander

N has made vast improvements in quality and is the best for tight spaces. https://www.amazon.com/Bachmann-Ind...achmann+Trains+Ready-to-Run+N+Scale+Train+Set

The Bachmann sets I recommend are complete, including a basic DCC controller. A simple and good way to become acquainted with DCC

There are other scales as well, but supply is limited and I have no experience with them.

Many modelers will put down the idea of sets. Even though most of us started with a set, go figure. I believe sets are a great starting point. One thing about this hobby that I have noticed, it evolves differently with each modeler. Where you start out at has little bearing on where you end up. Unless of course you start out with too high of a learning curve or unreliable equipment, then you might just give up on it.

I will share my golden rule for trains, HAVE FUN!
 
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