1963
63 years ago
ConstructionJapan
Tōkaidō Shinkansen Construction Begins
Japanese National Railways
Tokyo
June 26, 1963
Summary
Groundbreaking occurred for Japan's first high-speed rail line between Tokyo and Osaka.
Full Story
Construction of the Tōkaidō Shinkansen started on June 26, 1963, under the leadership of JNR president Shinji Sogō. Overcoming seismic and mountainous terrain required advanced engineering like long tunnels and elevated viaducts for the 0 Series trains capable of 210 km/h. Opened in 1964 for the Tokyo Olympics, it transformed travel, slashing Tokyo-Osaka time to four hours and inspiring global high-speed rail like France's TGV. Its success boosted Japan's economy and set standards for safety and punctuality still admired by enthusiasts.
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Quick Facts
- Date
- June 26, 1963
- Event Type
- Construction
- Country
- Japan
- Years Ago
- 63
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