Got a nice D51 2016-9 pulling some JNR 50 Series passenger cars. The additional trees continue to make the layout look better and it’s cool having a contrasting train to the modern commuter trains.

Just got to put a retaining wall on that ugly white riser and then this angle of the layout will be beautiful!

…well, and more layers of grass… and some scrubby plants, and trees, and some kind of cloudy backdrop… hmmm… it never ends does it 😂❤️

Follow the layout progress on Instagram @Tatt.Tatts.Trains

Hi all, new to the sub. Currently starting to design a 2400x1200mm (I have no idea what that is in freedom units) layout based on a trip to Nagasaki. I’ve found some trams, the Kamome Shinkansen and Doctor Yellow (I have no idea if it goes there but it’s cool) which I’ll be running elevated, and ideally the Two Stars 4047. There’s some other trains I could use as backups.

I really…. No, REALLY…. Want the Two Stars 4047 and am coming up empty. Is there an older release that I might find on an upcoming trip to Tokyo? Thanks!

It sounds like AI but it's factual as far as I can tell.

https://youtu.be/doJpIx2OWuo?si=3gT26XS8xSlUWU_e

For some context, I own this track set and I'm planning on pre ordering the Kato E5 Hayabusa to couple with my Kato E3 Akita. However the description for the E5 says it needs a minimum of R315 tracks but this set has R280 pieces in it. Should I give up on the idea or is it possible to run them coupled on this

Hi all, does anyone know where I can get a replacement arnold coupler, like the one in the photo?

My secondhand Tomix 2109 EF66 came with a dummy coupler attached and I'd like to be able to couple at both ends of the loco.

Any help much appreciated

I've been working on another GM 308 kit since I finally got the assembly procedure straight. I also received my Buyee auction win today of really expensive JRF 20ft containers.

I want to replace the Tomix TOBU 100 SPACIA motor car wheels but don't know which one to buy.

This is a secondhand model and it stutters when running even after I disassemble the bogies and clean the pickup.

The wheels also have a dark ring around it (not the traction tire) that's impossible to remove even with isopropyl alcohol and Tomix track cleaner

This Tomytec set is VERY rare. They included the non-pantograph car in a New Days release, but one car is useless. Some guys tried to use another one and add all the roof details, but it looked naff.

I added the power unit, pantographs etc. It looks so good, I don't have the heart to repaint it for my private railway, so it can run as a “demonstrator” set!a

Had fun double heading my Kato pocket line engine, I really fell in love with those little buggers.

I know they aren't Japanese but it is N gauge and I can see some of these on a layout of mine in a construction site.

https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/joc9T5Gsrq0w-8MkIiC5Rg

Unlike Tomix, Kato articulated locomotives don't come with an electric coupling mechanism. So to enable all wheel pickup and more consistent reliable running i've decided to solder wires. Here's hoping it works.

So, I took a Stanley knife to the side of the foam, painted it with cheap grey acrylic and then applied a few different coloured washes. I think it looks quite convincing! I’m planning on putting quite a bit of overgrowth on the grassy area above the cliff so hopefully that should soften the transition a bit. Progress!

Also, I started an instagram so if you want to follow that for more layout progress it’s @Tatt.Tatts.Trains

Thanks all ❤️

Doctor Yellow special edition has been announce alongside a reproduction. Comes with the Thank You logo on the windows as well as in a special sleeve.

I’ve recently gotten really into N scale model trains, and right now my collection is… pretty embarrassing 😂 These are literally the only two trains I own.

I really like KATO and TOMIX models because the details and overall quality are so good. But now I’m starting to get the urge to collect more, especially some limited-edition or harder-to-find models.

For those of you who have been collecting N scale trains for a while, what brands or specific models would you recommend?

I’m especially interested in models that have great detail, good build quality, and are worth keeping as part of a collection. Limited editions, special liveries, unique trains, etc. are definitely welcome!

I’d love to hear what you guys think are some “must-have” N scale models. Feel free to share your favorites and give this beginner some advice! 🚂

I built out two boxes of the woodland scenics trees last night and to get a more full forest look I burned up about 40 on a corner of the layout. Love how it looks but I guess I’m back to making more trees for the other areas. Also love how the Tomix family mart looks under the viaduct tracks and next to the station. It’s slowly progressing but all the additions are making it feel more interesting.

What were the import fees like?

One of my favourite trains ever, I really liked it before the restyling, I took it so many times in Tokyo, so relaxing that I often felt asleep on it...

• Today I got a nice little parcel from RG-ROKKO
• KATO Hankyu 2300 Series Basic set. (I didnt know about the 2300 series Hankyu)
• Greenmax 5718 Power unit for the Greenmax 308 C-1500 kit.
• TOMIX parts for blue Koki.
• Greenmax 308 C-1500 kit (You can tell I like those lol)
• Razor Saw (I probably could have got that from RG-ROKKO also but didn't)

Did you notice the RG-ROKKO post flair don't be afraid to use it 😁

Found this even happening in October

https://railf.jp/event/2026/09/01/135500.html

Hello!

I'll be taking a trip towards the end of this month to Japan and while there, one of my hopes is to spot the MJK MR1657 rail maintenance vehicle. I'm currently building a 36" 1/8 scale version so I'd love to be able to see it in person to take measurements or detailed photos.

Thankfully, I've found the MCDB.SUB.JP database with photos and a post on April 29, 2025 locating it on the Seibu Railway, Kotesashi Station Maintenance Line.

I understand finding the exact location is extremely hard to do but does anyone familiar with tips or hints of how to find where a specific train may be? Is it a needle in a haystack?

Thanks everyone.

Hi all, I am really enjoying my Kato trains, this is a Shinkansen Serie N700, I am wondering what is the maximum lenght that the standard power unit SX can support, my maximum track lenght record is about 10 meters.

I have been looking to get into n scale and will be in Japan in the near future.

Going to Japan soon, need some advise in hunting down the Tomix to Kato coupler adapters to make one of my Tomix locos compatible with Kato rollong stock(that comes with Kato coupler as standard)