Japan’s iconic Class C57 steam locomotive, known as Kifujin (noble lady), has completed extensive repairs and is scheduled to resume commercial service on October 3, ending a six-year hiatus. The locomotive, which began operating in 1979 on the “SL Yamaguchi-go” tourist train, will run on the 62.9-kilometer section of the Yamaguchi Line between Shin-Yamaguchi Station in Yamaguchi City and Tsuwano Station in Shimane Prefecture.

The C57 was originally built in 1937 and continued to be operated by the Japanese National Railways (JNR) until its privatization in 1987, when JR West assumed responsibility for the route. The steam engine ceased operations in October 2020 after sustaining a piston failure that left it stranded during a commercial run.

With no existing manufacturers of steam locomotive parts available, JR West commissioned a ship parts maker to produce the necessary components for the restoration. Repair work was carried out at a train yard in Kyoto and was completed in late July 2026. Since then, JR West has conducted test runs to ensure the locomotive’s readiness for public service.

The return of the C57 aligns with a broader tourism initiative organized by the Yamaguchi Prefectural Government and JR Group companies called the “Destination Campaign.” The campaign aims to boost regional tourism by attracting visitors from across Japan to experience the scenic steam train journey.

“We have kept customers waiting for a long period of time,” said Shingo Harada, a JR West official who oversaw the locomotive’s repair. “We want people to come from all over the country during the campaign so that we can liven up Yamaguchi.”

The revival of the steam locomotive is expected to contribute to local tourism and preserve an important aspect of Japan’s railway heritage.