The Shinkansen (新幹線)
Often referred to as the "bullet train", is Japan's high-speed rail system. It is known for its exceptional speed, punctuality, safety, and comfort. Here are some key points:
Overview
- Launched: 1964, just before the Tokyo Olympics.
- First Line: Tökaido Shinkansen (Tokyo to Osaka).
- Operated by: Japan Railways Group (JR Group), with regional companies like JR East, JR Central, etc.
Speed
- Top Operational Speed: ~320 km/h (200 mph).
- Test Speeds: Some experimental models like the Maglev (LO Series) have exceeded 600 km/h.
Major Lines
- Tökaido Shinkansen: Tokyo <--> Osaka (busiest and most iconic).
- Sanyo Shinkansen: Osaka <--> Fukuoka.
- Töhoku Shinkansen: Tokyo <--> Aomori (northeast Japan).
- Kyushu Shinkansen: Fukuoka <--> Kagoshima.
- Hokuriku Shinkansen: Tokyo <--> Kanazawa (with future expansion plans)