A fully-functioning life-size version of Thomas the Tank Engine (and friends) will be open to the public in Japan from this weekend. Travellers will be able to take a ride between Shinkanaya and Senzu stations between this Sunday and October 12.

First published in 1945, the children’s books following the adventures of the small steam locomotive have been adapted into a TV series popular the world over.

thomas the tank engine in real life
thomas the tank engine real life
thomas the tank engine

Tom is the editor-in-chief and founder of Hong Kong Free Press. He has a BA in Communications and New Media from Leeds University and an MA in Journalism from the University of Hong Kong. He has contributed to the BBC, Euronews, Al-Jazeera and others.