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 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 …
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, …
Railways have long served as the backbone of Japan’s transportation and fueled its economic growth. The evolution of Japan’s rail history mirrors the country’s modernization across centuries. From early steam locomotives to today’s ultramodern magnetic levitation trains, Japan’s railways represent an epic journey of engineering achievements. In this article, we’ll explore the major eras and …
Japan is renowned worldwide for its extensive, efficient, and convenient railway network that underpins both urban transportation and intercity connectivity. But this reputation stems not only from advanced engineering—psychology also plays a pivotal yet subtle role. Japanese train companies like JR and their rail infrastructure leverage various psychological elements in their design to manage crowds, …
Japan is renowned worldwide for its efficient, punctual, and extensive rail network that underpins the country’s transportation system and economy. But what may be lesser known is that this system was built by private railway companies. After initially being government-owned in the late 19th century, Japan’s railways have been primarily privately held for over 100 …
Visitors to Japan are often amazed by the extensive rail network interconnecting cities and regions across the country. Trains are the primary mode of transportation for many Japanese who rely on fast bullet trains and urban subway systems in their daily life. Yet back in car-centric America, trains are often an afterthought outside specific corridors …
Japan is renowned worldwide for its extensive high-speed rail network that enables lightning fast intercity travel. Bullet trains zoom across the countryside at up to 200mph while local and metro trains operate with metronomic precision and efficiency. So what makes Japan’s trains so blisteringly fast while still maintaining punctuality? Read on to learn the reasons …
Anyone who has ridden the extensive subway and rail network in Tokyo will notice the train staff engaging in curious pointing and gesturing routines when trains pull into the station. A conductor will emerge and begin energetically pointing along the platform and towards the train while a station attendant waves their white gloves signalling the …
