The 20+ Best Anime That Take Place On Trains

Rail Wars! is a thrilling anime that follows protagonist Naoto Takayama, who aims to become a driver for the Japan National Railways. However, his journey takes an unexpected turn as he ends up in the security division and must protect the trains and passengers from various threats. The story revolves around the daily adventures of Naoto and his team, showcasing their dedication to ensuring the safety of the railway system.

Baccano! is a captivating anime set in the early 1930s, primarily aboard the transcontinental train “The Flying Pussyfoot.” This exhilarating series is characterized by its nonlinear storytelling, intertwining the lives of several characters with unique backgrounds and motives. As the plot unravels, viewers witness the chaos, violence, and supernatural elements that make this train journey one to remember.

Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress is a riveting post-apocalyptic anime in which humanity is on the brink of extinction due to monstrous creatures called Kabane. The only means of survival are massive armored trains and fortified stations. The story follows protagonist Ikoma, who becomes a hybrid human-Kabane and fights to protect his fellow passengers and the world from these terrifying creatures.

5 Centimeters Per Second is a heart-wrenching anime that tells the story of two childhood friends, Takaki and Akari, who are separated by distance but remain connected through letters. Trains play a significant role in this anime, symbolizing the passage of time and the physical distance between the characters. As the years pass, both Takaki and Akari take trains to meet each other, only to realize that they are drifting further apart.

Galaxy Railways is an exciting space opera anime centered around the Space Defense Force (SDF), tasked with protecting the galaxy-spanning railway system. The story focuses on Manabu Yuuki, a new recruit who joins the SDF in honor of his late father. Throughout the series, viewers witness the thrilling adventures and challenges faced by Manabu and his teammates as they protect the trains and their passengers from various threats.

Galaxy Express 999 is the original anime series that inspired many sequels and spin-offs. It follows the adventures of Tetsuro Hoshino, a young orphan who dreams of obtaining a mechanical body to achieve immortality. He embarks on a journey aboard the titular train, meeting various characters and exploring the vast universe in search of his ultimate goal.