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Hi guys! I tried searching on this forum but couldnt find much infomation about this line, and the famous switch back! I was introduced to this line and the switch back last Sunday while watching my favourite show on TV, Japan Hour. It's a variety program that has been going on for coming to 21 years now and show-cases the beautiful sights of Japan. I have been watching this since i was young, being a real Japan fan and all. But last Sunday's episode had a real impact on me! More info here: http://www.channelnewsasia.com/japanhour/highlights_jan19_2013.htm I tried to download this episode, but i couldnt find it/ do it.. A real pity. Hirohiko Yokomi is a true train fan and has been to EVERY train station in Japan. The Hisatsu line is based in Kuhshu, Kumamoto region. This line was built in a loop and goes up a hill, and for the trains to gain enough power, a switch back was used. Basically, the trains made a 'U-turn' before climbing up the hill to gain enough power to do just that.. While i watched the video, i kept cursing myself why i didnt know how to download this if not i would definately keep and share this with you guys. It's really interesting and infomative.. Some photos here: http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/columns/0004/station061.htm Also, it's another MUST GO destination for me in the next Japan trip since it's in Kyushu (where i plan to visit since the last time i went to Hokkaido), and both the Shinpei and the Hayato No Kaze are there! Sweet! Appreciate if anyone has more infomation, perfably a video, to show with the other about this switch back technology... It's really sweet and interesting and would be nice to see someone model it in N scale!