Japanese Government Railways Electrification

May 30, 1925 saw the Japanese Government Railways begin electric multiple-unit service on the Tokaido Main Line between Tokyo and Yokohama. Using 1,500-volt DC EF10 class locomotives and advanced overhead catenary, this project addressed coal shortages and steep grades. It improved schedule reliability for both passenger and freight trains and laid groundwork for Japan's famous high-speed rail network. The electrification effort reflected rapid modernization during the Taisho era and influenced subsequent Shinkansen development decades later.