As the UK gears up to build the ambitious High Speed 2 rail line aiming to better connect London, the Midlands, and the North, many have pointed to Japan’s renowned Shinkansen as a model for reliable high-speed rail done right. But how exactly does HS2 compare to Japan’s bullet trains? In this article, we’ll examine …
Japan is renowned for its Shinkansen bullet trains that speed passengers across the country at over 200 mph. But could the same magnetic levitation (maglev) technology propelling these high-speed trains also carry travelers to the moon one day? That’s the vision behind Japan’s proposed lunar elevator concept. In this article, we’ll explore this futuristic maglev-powered …
Japan is renowned for its efficient, convenient rail system that covers most of the country. But as a visitor, you may wonder – how much does it actually cost to ride Japanese trains? Fares can vary widely depending on train type, distance, and class of service. In this article, we break down the typical range …
For tourists, riding Japan’s vast and complex public transportation network can seem daunting, especially for those who don’t speak Japanese. Between purchasing tickets from machines, finding the right train line and platform, and figuring out your stop, language barriers make navigating confusing. However, Japan’s railway operators understand foreign visitors and implement various aids to facilitate …
Japan is renowned worldwide for its extensive high-speed rail network and punctual, efficient train system that transports millions daily across the country. But even with sophisticated technology and rigorous protocols, Japan’s vast railway network occasionally faces accidents and incidents that disrupt operations and challenge its sterling safety reputation. In this article, we will examine some …
With thousands of trains operating daily across thousands of miles of track, maintaining safety is paramount for Japan’s extensive railway network. Japan has diligently cultivated and innovated safety practices over decades to achieve a world-leading train safety record. In this article, we’ll explore the technologies, protocols, and culture underpinning Japan’s excellent rail safety performance. Safety …
Riding trains for hours across Japan to explore the country inevitably means needing to use the restroom at some point during your journey. Japanese rail operators understand passenger needs and equip nearly all trains with bathroom facilities. However, toilets vary across train types from high-tech washlets on bullet trains to more basic facilities on local …
With thousands of trains whisking millions of passengers across Japan daily, the rail system requires massive amounts of power to run smoothly. From high-speed Shinkansen bullet trains to local subways, these advanced trains utilize various propulsion technologies and energy sources. In this article, we’ll delve into how Japan’s extensive railway network is powered across different …
Japan is renowned for its advanced trains utilizing the latest technology for efficient, convenient service. In recent years, automation has entered Japan’s rails with select driverless train operation being introduced. But the majority of trains still use human crews to monitor journeys. How do driverless and driver-operated services differ in Japan? Let’s compare the technology, …
One of Japan’s most iconic innovations is the Shinkansen, or bullet train. These sleek high-speed trains connect major cities across Japan at speeds up to 200 mph via dedicated railway lines. But if you’re new to Japan’s vast rail network, you may wonder – where exactly do bullet trains go? This guide covers the major …
