Shinkansen Planning Begins

On August 27, 1958, Japanese National Railways initiated detailed planning for what would become the Tokaido Shinkansen. Led by engineer Hideo Shima, the project addressed post-war congestion on the existing narrow-gauge Tokaido Line between Tokyo and Osaka. The team overcame challenges like earthquake resistance and aerodynamic design for 210 km/h operations using advanced electric multiple units. This effort revolutionized global rail travel, proving high-speed rail's viability and influencing systems worldwide. The line opened in 1964, just in time for the Tokyo Olympics, and set standards for punctuality and safety still admired by enthusiasts.