OSAKA –
The steam locomotive C57 No. 180, affectionately often called the “Lady,” is marking 80 years since its manufacture because it continues to run because the SL Banetsu Monogatari.
Built in 1946, the locomotive was used on routes together with the Shinetsu Main Line earlier than being retired in 1969 as railways throughout Japan shifted towards electrification and diesel energy.
After a long time out of service, C57 No. 180 was restored in April 1999 and started a second life because the SL Banetsu Monogatari. The locomotive reaches its eightieth yr since manufacture this yr, an age historically celebrated in Japan as sanju.
Source: Television OSAKA NEWS