Tokaido Shinkansen test runs begin

On June 7, 1964, the Japanese National Railways conducted initial high-speed test runs on the Tokaido Shinkansen between Tokyo and Osaka. Designed by Hideo Shima, these 0 Series bullet trains reached speeds over 200 km/h, revolutionizing rail travel. Overcoming post-war reconstruction challenges, the line used advanced aerodynamics and dedicated tracks. It debuted at the Tokyo Olympics, boosting Japan's economy and inspiring high-speed rail worldwide, including Europe's TGV and China's network.