Launch of Japan's first Shinkansen service

July 6, 1964, saw the start of operations on Japan's Tokaido Shinkansen, the world's first dedicated high-speed rail line. Running at speeds up to 210 km/h with the 0 Series EMUs, it slashed travel time between Tokyo and Osaka from seven hours to four. Conceived for the Tokyo Olympics, the project overcame dense population and seismic challenges through advanced engineering like elevated tracks and earthquake detection. It transformed Japanese mobility, inspired global high-speed networks, and remains a symbol of post-war technological prowess.