List of products by brand Kato

Kato is a world-renowned Japanese manufacturer specializing in high-end model trains . Known for its exceptional build quality, mechanical reliability, and running performance, the brand offers locomotives, railcars, passenger cars, freight cars, starter sets, and the famous Unitrack track system. Primarily developed in N (1:160) and HO (1:87) scales, Kato models accurately reproduce Japanese, European, and North American railways. At Univers Train, find the latest Kato releases, pre-orders, and products to create a high-performance and realistic model railway.

Kato, the Japanese excellence of model trains

Kato is one of the world's most prestigious model railway manufacturers. Founded in Japan in 1957, the brand is renowned for the exceptional quality of its locomotives, railcars, passenger cars, wagons, and track systems. Thanks to remarkable manufacturing precision and particularly reliable mechanics, Kato has become an essential reference for model train enthusiasts.

The story of Kato

Founded by Yuji Kato in Tokyo, the company quickly established itself thanks to its industrial expertise and technical innovations. From the 1960s onward, Kato developed models renowned for their smooth operation and robustness. Today, the brand is distributed worldwide and produces both Japanese and European/North American railway equipment.

Why choose Kato?

• A globally recognized Japanese manufacturer.
• Rolling quality among the best on the market.
• Powerful, quiet and reliable engines.
• Very fine engraving and meticulous decorations.
• Excellent compatibility with DCC digital systems depending on the model.
• Unitrack track system renowned for its simplicity and reliability.

Kato locomotives

Kato offers a wide range of electric, diesel, and steam locomotives replicating Japanese, European, and North American rolling stock. The models are appreciated for their smooth operation, tractive power, and high level of detail.

High-speed railcars and trains

The brand is particularly famous for its multiple units and complete trainsets, notably the renowned Shinkansen , as well as various regional, express, and metropolitan trains. Certain European series, such as the TGV , are also offered depending on the market.

Passenger cars and wagons

Kato develops numerous passenger cars and freight wagons allowing for the creation of complete train sets:

• Mainline cars.
• Sleeping cars.
• Dining cars.
• Container ship.
• Tanks.
• Flat wagons.
• Hoppers.
• Specialized wagons.

The Kato Unitrack track system

The Unitrack system is one of Kato's flagship products. Thanks to its integrated ballast, high assembly precision and excellent electrical conductivity, it allows for the rapid construction of a reliable, scalable layout, particularly suitable for both beginners and experienced modelers.

The main scales

• N (1:160) , historical specialty of Kato.
• HO (1:87) .

Digital compatibility

Many Kato locomotives are compatible with DCC digital systems thanks to interfaces designed to accept a decoder. Some models are also offered directly in a digital version, depending on the market.

Why buy Kato from Univers Train?

• Large selection of Kato locomotives and trainsets.
• Unitrack track system available.
• New releases and pre-orders.
• Products of guaranteed origin.
• Fast shipping with reinforced packaging.
• Customer service specializing in model railroading.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kato

What is Kato's specialty?

Kato specializes in locomotives, railcars, passenger cars, wagons and track systems for miniature railway networks.

What is the Unitrack system?

Unitrack is a ballasted track system developed by Kato. It is known for its ease of installation, robustness, and excellent electrical quality.

In what scales are Kato models offered?

The main ranges are available in N (1:160) and HO (1:87) scales.

Are Kato locomotives DCC compatible?

Yes. Many models are pre-equipped to receive a DCC decoder or have digital versions depending on the model.

Discover the entire Kato range at Univers Train

Find Kato Unitrack locomotives, railcars, Shinkansen trains, passenger cars, wagons, and track at Univers Train. Benefit from models renowned for their reliability, precision, and excellent performance to build a durable and realistic model railway.