Discover the Rich History of Shinjuku Station at the Upcoming Exhibition Celebrating Its 140th Anniversary

Celebrating 140 Years of Shinjuku Station

The Shinjuku Historical Museum is set to host a special exhibition from October 12 to December 14, 2025, commemorating a significant milestone: the 140th anniversary of Shinjuku Station.

Since its inception, Shinjuku Station has evolved from a small stop on the railway line to one of the world's busiest transport hubs. Officially opened in 1885, it initially served as a connection point between private railway lines, specifically the Japan National Railway and the Kobu Railway. Fast forward to March 2025, Shinjuku Station represents a remarkable journey over 140 years and has emerged as a vital artery in Japan's expansive rail network.

Unveiling Station's Transformation

The upcoming exhibition will take visitors through the history of Shinjuku Station, highlighting key milestones and transformations throughout the decades. The exhibit will also provide a glimpse into the future of this historic terminal. Notable displayed items include a model of the first Shinjuku station structure, memorabilia from key events like the cherry blossom news from Seibu Railway in 1949, and images of the vibrant eastern entrance of the station captured during the late 1950s.

As an architectural marvel that reflects the evolution of travel and urban design in Japan, Shinjuku Station now boasts multiple railway lines and continues to adapt to the demands of modern transit. The exhibition aims to unravel the stories behind its historic significance and future potential in urban transportation.

Event Schedule

The exhibition will be hosted at the Shinjuku Historical Museum, located at 12-16 Sakae-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan. Visitors can enjoy the exhibition from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with a closing time of 5 PM for admission. To ensure an engaging experience, gallery talks led by curators will take place on several Saturdays throughout the exhibition period, including October 25, November 8, November 22, and December 6.

For those interested in delving deeper into the history of railways in Japan, there will be a series of related events. On November 1, a special lecture titled “The History of Railways through Shinjuku Station” will be conducted by Professor Yoshiki Oikawa from Rikkyo University. This presentation will chronicle the development of Shinjuku Station as the prominent terminal it is today.
If you are curious about the future of Shinjuku Station, the JR East station master, Shigeru Tanaka, will share his thoughts on November 29 at another engaging talk, reflecting on 140 years of history and future possibilities. Moreover, a three-part lecture series covering the station's context within urban redevelopment will be held on three consecutive Sundays in November.

Join Us

This exhibition represents not just a celebration of a historical landmark but an exploration of forward-thinking designs in transport systems. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about rail travel's impact on urban life, this event promises to offer insights into the past, present, and future of Shinjuku Station.

Venue Details:
Location: Shinjuku Historical Museum, Tokyo, Japan
Access: A short walk from Yotsuya Station on the JR, Tokyo Metro, or Toei Subway
Admission Fee: General admission is 300 yen and free for middle school students and below.

Plan your visit to immerse yourself in the vibrant history of Shinjuku Station and witness its journey over the past 140 years. Experience how this iconic terminal will continue to evolve and serve as an integral part of Japan's transportation future.