Tōkaidō Shinkansen Extension Opens

June 3, 1967 saw the inauguration of the 160 km extension of Japan's Tōkaidō Shinkansen from Shin-Ōsaka to Okayama, boosting capacity on the world's first dedicated high-speed line. The 0 Series bullet trains, capable of 210 km/h, featured aerodynamic noses and distributed traction motors. This expansion followed the original Tokyo-Osaka line opened in 1964 for the Tokyo Olympics. Engineers overcame seismic and tunnel challenges in the mountainous terrain. The project was led by JNR president Shinji Sogō. It transformed intercity travel, reducing Tokyo-Osaka time dramatically and influencing global high-speed rail development including France's TGV. The extension supported Japan's economic miracle and urban connectivity.