1964
62 years ago
InnovationJapan
Tokaido Shinkansen Test Runs Begin
Japanese National Railways
Tokyo
July 15, 1964
Summary
Japan initiated high-speed test operations on the Tokaido Shinkansen line between Tokyo and Osaka ahead of the 1964 Olympics.
Full Story
July 15, 1964, saw the start of high-speed test runs for Japan's Tokaido Shinkansen, the world's first dedicated bullet train corridor. Designed by Hideo Shima and built by Japanese National Railways, the 515 km line used advanced 0 Series trains capable of 210 km/h, overcoming earthquake and tunnel engineering hurdles with innovative aerodynamics and automatic train control. This innovation revolutionized passenger rail globally, slashing Tokyo-Osaka travel to four hours and symbolizing Japan's post-war technological resurgence ahead of the Tokyo Olympics.
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Quick Facts
- Date
- July 15, 1964
- Event Type
- Innovation
- Country
- Japan
- Years Ago
- 62
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