Key Facts
• On September 4, 2025, at 11:45 AM, a steam locomotive derailed in Minakami, Gunma.
• The incident occurred on the JR Joetsu Line between Gokan and Kamimaki stations.
• The locomotive, D51 498, was undergoing a test run after July brake repairs.
• No passengers were aboard, and no injuries were reported among the crew.
• The derailment involved the first axle of the coal car’s left-side wheel.
• The train was pulling five passenger cars between Takasaki and Minakami stations.
• Operations were suspended between Numata and Minakami stations due to the accident.
• The locomotive had previously experienced brake failure on the JR Shinetsu Line in July 2025.
Summary
A steam locomotive, D51 498, derailed during a test run on the JR Joetsu Line in Gunma Prefecture on September 4, 2025. The incident occurred at 11:45 AM between Gokan and Kamimaki stations. The locomotive was undergoing testing after brake repairs conducted in July 2025, following a failure on the JR Shinetsu Line. The derailment involved the first axle of the coal car’s left-side wheel while pulling five passenger cars. Fortunately, no passengers were aboard, and no injuries were reported among the crew. Train operations between Numata and Minakami stations were suspended as a result. The incident highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining aging railway equipment.
