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(5 h 24 min)

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The Railway Revival: 4 Years after the Great Earthquake
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S1 E1 The Railway Revival: 4 Years after the Great Earthquake

The devastating Earthquake damaged or destroyed 4,070km of the railways along the Pacific coastline of North Eastern Japan. See how the unique Bus Rapid Transit system helped to quickly restore vital transportation needs, and the latest wireless signaling system increased the frequency and reliability of the trains. The damage was severe, but the comeback of East Japan's railways will change history for rail services throughout the country. Also, discover the railway museum where visitors can drive a real Class EF63 Electric Locomotive for an unforgettable ride.

Première diffusion : 9 mars 2015

The New Shinkansen: Technology and Economic Effects
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S1 E2 The New Shinkansen: Technology and Economic Effects

This month's Special Rail Report focuses on the latest addition to Japan's high-speed rail network that started mid-March. See the new Shinkansen W7 series in action, the measures taken to combat the snow on route across 450km of Japan, and the economic impact on the town that's now less than 2.5 hours from Tokyo. Also useful tips on choosing the right line while visiting Japan and topics on sleeper train's which ended its last run this March.

Première diffusion : 10 avril 2015

Isumi Railway: There's Nothing Here!
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S1 E3 Isumi Railway: There's Nothing Here!

Most Third Sector railways are former nationally owned lines in rural areas that run at a loss. Recently, Isumi Railway decided on a new strategy to change this. In 2009, they opened their doors to the public to hire a president. They chose a former international airline operations manager, who is also a hardcore rail fan. Discover how his unique perspective and unconventional ideas lead to the revival of the Isumi Railway.

Première diffusion : 15 mai 2015

Diesel Hybrid Trains: Japan's World Leading Technology
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S1 E4 Diesel Hybrid Trains: Japan's World Leading Technology

Japan's diesel hybrid trains use the very latest lithium-ion batteries. Compared to conventional diesel railcars, diesel hybrid trains reduce fuel consumption, carbon emissions and noise pollution. Join us for a ride on the eco-friendly "Resort View Furusato" as it winds its way through the beautiful Japanese Alps. Then meet the volunteer group that maintains its own line on a farm, experience changing a sleeper and see their museum condition narrow-gauge steam engine in action.

Première diffusion : 12 juin 2015

Battery Hybrid Trains: Development of the Global Technology
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S1 E5 Battery Hybrid Trains: Development of the Global Technology

Battery-hybrid trains draw power from both contact lines and their onboard batteries, and they are gaining worldwide attention due to their eco-friendliness and energy-saving technology. See Japan's world-first lithium-ion battery train "ACCUM" in action, plus the new tram and fuel-cell hybrid train in development at Japan's top railway research institute. Then explore 140 years of Japan's railway history at an interactive museum that features full cab simulators.

Première diffusion : 11 juillet 2015

Japan's Subway Technology in High Density Operation
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S1 E6 Japan's Subway Technology in High Density Operation

Japan's subways have a reputation for being energy-saving and eco-friendly, and companies have been successfully exporting their technology around the world. Discover why the permanent magnet motors in use on the Ginza Line's 1000 Series, as well as the latest linear motor and "Automated Train Operation" systems are all gaining keen interest. Then "See, Touch and Move" at Japan's only Metro Museum to explore the history of the subways, and some of the new technology applied in recent years.

Première diffusion : 14 août 2015

The Secret of Operating Preserved Steam Locomotives
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S1 E7 The Secret of Operating Preserved Steam Locomotives

In Japan, regions operating preserved steam locomotives benefit from vital boosts to the local economy. Discover the secrets behind making these historic workhorses invaluable tourist attractions, and how the practice is gaining popularity. Then meet the experts whose supreme skills preserve the precious boilers and maintain the engines, and see the 300 years of tradition behind the manufacture of a unique shovel specifically designed to efficiently scoop coal. Also, a special guest joining us this time is Rena Matsui, a successful former member of the popular idol group SKE48, and now she is pursuing her career as an actor.

Première diffusion : 9 octobre 2015

Special Preview - Hokkaido Shinkansen: Hopes and Challenges
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S1 E8 Special Preview - Hokkaido Shinkansen: Hopes and Challenges

On March 26, 2016, the new Series H5 will enter service on Japan's latest shinkansen line, which runs through the world's longest undersea tunnel between Honshu and Hokkaido. Rena Matsui reports on the build-up to Hokkaido's first shinkansen arrival, the brand new Shin-Hakodate Station, and the latest technology to combat the cold. Also see the challenges of the Shinkansen sharing the line with freight trains, and discover the only place in Japan with presenter Russell Totten where anyone can drive a real steam locomotive.

Première diffusion : 13 novembre 2015

Yamanote Line: The Green Rotating Heart of Tokyo
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S1 E9 Yamanote Line: The Green Rotating Heart of Tokyo

With trains making 650 round trips each day, the JR Yamanote Line is the artery of Tokyo's railways. On November 30, the new Series E235 entered service on the green-colored loop line, and is scheduled to replace all train sets by the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. See the latest technology on this next generation train, look back on all its predecessors on the Yamanote Line since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, then visit "Mass-Trans Innovation Japan", Japan's largest railway convention held every 2 years.

Première diffusion : 4 décembre 2015

Seven Stars in Kyushu: The Local Revitalizing Cruise Train
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S1 E10 Seven Stars in Kyushu: The Local Revitalizing Cruise Train

In recent years, "tourist trains" have become increasingly popular. With their unique Japanese designs, seasonal on-board cuisine and stopover excursions, more and more people are enjoying Japan's railways. The reason for this boom is the expansion of the Shinkansen network, which has made local regions easier to access and brought a welcome economic boost to the area. Discover the hopes that these tourists trains bring as we take a luxurious trip on the most popular 2 day "cruise train" with Saya Ichikawa, a Japanese model and also an avid railfan who loves riding tourist trains.

Première diffusion : 15 janvier 2016

Second Chances for Used Trains in Southeast Asia
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S1 E11 Second Chances for Used Trains in Southeast Asia

Used Japanese trains are being given a new lease of life in Southeast Asia. Demand for Japanese trains is high because they are air-conditioned, and are always well maintained. We follow a Series 205 on its way to its new home in Indonesia, and see how Japanese engineers are sharing their knowledge as they teach track maintenance in Myanmar. We also travel to Yubari City in Hokkaido, where a citizens group is striving to preserve the local railway heritage and a closed steam locomotive museum.

Première diffusion : 11 février 2016

Earthquake Safety: What 5 Years has Taught Us
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S1 E12 Earthquake Safety: What 5 Years has Taught Us

In March 2011, the Great East Japan Earthquake severely damaged the railway infrastructure in the Tohoku area. See some of the advanced safety measures that railway operators have been developing since then, such as the "early earthquake warning system" to automatically stop the Shinkansen, the "seismic hazard simulator for a railway" that assess potential damage, and the support on hand for stranded commuters. Then, join avid rail-fan Miki Murai on the "Steam Locomotive Ginga", a shining symbol of the recovery effort.

Première diffusion : 11 mars 2016

Superconducting Maglev: The Extreme Speeds of Tomorrow
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S1 E13 Superconducting Maglev: The Extreme Speeds of Tomorrow

Traveling at 500km/h, the Superconducting Maglev will connect Tokyo to Nagoya in just 40 minutes and is planned to begin commercial service in 2027. To achieve such extreme speeds, magnetic levitation is used to lift the train 10cm above the guideway. See the cutting-edge technology used to safely operate ultra-high speed services, and experience the world of 500km/h rail travel as we report from the 42km-long Yamanashi Maglev Test Line.

Première diffusion : 7 avril 2016

Ekiben: A True Rail Traveling Companion
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S1 E14 Ekiben: A True Rail Traveling Companion

Ekiben, a word that combines eki, meaning station, and the ben from bento, are special boxed meals sold at stations and on trains all over Japan. Around 4,000 different kinds of ekiben are sold throughout Japan, and each one is packed with the distinct culture and cuisine of the local area its made in. Discover the special techniques used to ensure that ekiben are always high quality and delicious even when chilled, and some tips on how to really enjoy lunch on the train.

Première diffusion : 15 avril 2016

Premium Express Shimakaze: A Train of Dreams to Reality
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S1 E15 Premium Express Shimakaze: A Train of Dreams to Reality

Kintetsu Railway's "Premium Express Shimakaze" is a popular tourist train that connects Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagoya to Iseshima.Through extensive market research (over 14,000 people were surveyed), the interior and concept were designed to utilize customer needs. Explore the variety of premium facilities through a ride onboard, and the latest technology used to provide travelers a luxurious rail experience. Also, see the Museum Meiji-mura.

Première diffusion : 13 mai 2016

The Cat Stationmaster Who Rescued a Railway
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S1 E16 The Cat Stationmaster Who Rescued a Railway

The Wakayama Electric Railway's Kishigawa Line is a well-known local line for its cat stationmaster. Ever since "Tama" the cat was assigned as stationmaster, there has been a significant increase in the numbers of tourists, which resulted in the continuation of a railway that was due to be decommissioned. Discover how the railway was rescued by a cat stationmaster, the unique trains and building shapes designed to deliver excitement and the local support group that shows continuous support.

Première diffusion : 19 mai 2016

New Generation Express: Journey to Speed and Comfortability
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S1 E17 New Generation Express: Journey to Speed and Comfortability

A new test vehicle scheduled to operate on the Chuo Conventional Line is currently undergoing performance evaluation and technical verification. Discover the evolution of an express train which operates through many curves using the latest technology, improvements on comfortability and the reason behind the development of the new vehicle through a special test run. Then meet a group in Ishikawa Prefecture which runs "rail bicycles" using the discontinued Noto Line to take visitors for an enjoyable ride.

Première diffusion : 10 juin 2016

The Future of Rail Freight Transport
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S1 E18 The Future of Rail Freight Transport

Freight trains are making a change to improve the quality of their service. Implementations such as "modal shift" - a switchover from truck transport to freights, company dedicated freights for faster delivery, Japan's unique technology to improve the efficiency of transport and the 12 feet containers that are gaining attention from Southeast Asian countries. Also see the history of high-speed railway at the SC Maglev and Railway Park located in Nagoya.

Première diffusion : 17 juin 2016

Light Rail Vehicles: Modern Trams Reshaping Urban Transit
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S1 E19 Light Rail Vehicles: Modern Trams Reshaping Urban Transit

This program is all about the successive introduction of light rail vehicles (LRVs). Check out Fukui city's LRV under mutual direct operation between 2 railway companies, how Toyama city increased ridership by implementing LRVs onto a line which was on the verge of being discontinued, and the benefits LRVs have on the region. Also, be sure to see the activities of the "Tohoku Live Steam Club" where they build and operate their own large-scale steam locomotives based in Miyagi Prefecture.

Première diffusion : 15 juillet 2016

Kyoto Railway Museum: The Story of Rail Transport in Japan
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S1 E20 Kyoto Railway Museum: The Story of Rail Transport in Japan

In April 2016, Japan's largest railway museum made its debut in Kyoto city. On display is a collection of 53 vehicles that symbolizes Japan's railway history which includes 23 steam locomotives, the very first Shinkansen, famous sleeper trains and more. See passenger cars pulled by real steam locomotives as well as the repair and maintenance of vehicles up close. The different types of simulators and a giant HO-scale diorama make it a theme park that is enjoyable for everyone.

Première diffusion : 22 juillet 2016

Keikyu: The Strive for World-Class Rail Operation
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S1 E21 Keikyu: The Strive for World-Class Rail Operation

Keikyu operates in the suburbs of Tokyo, and is known for its frequent high-speed operations, direct through service with other lines and minimal train delays. Keikyu also uses the most human-centered system of all major Japanese railway companies, ensuring vital knowledge and experience is put to good use for a reliable operation. Also, see Miki Murai reporting about Noto Railway's tourist train which operates in the Noto region, where it was appointed as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System.

Première diffusion : 5 août 2016

World-Class Maintenance: The Backbone of Shinkansen Operations
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S1 E22 World-Class Maintenance: The Backbone of Shinkansen Operations

In 1964, the Tokaido Shinkansen was introduced as the "Dream Super Express". Since then, it has transported over 5.5 billion passengers. The almighty high-speed vehicle is known for its accuracy, which its delay time per car set is only 0.2 minutes. Also, it's known for the comfort of the ride and safety; no fatal accidents had happened for the last 52 years. The Shinkansen has such accomplishment due to the support of people behind the scenes. See the latest technology used during the maintenance procedure which is conducted overnight and then meet "Dr.Yellow", a train created especially for inspection of tracks and overhead lines.

Première diffusion : 16 septembre 2016

Railways Back on Track: Six Months after the Kumamoto Earthquakes
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S1 E23 Railways Back on Track: Six Months after the Kumamoto Earthquakes

The magnitude 7 earthquake that struck Kumamoto Prefecture on April 14, 2016 severely damaged railways of Kyushu region. With many efforts, the Kyushu Shinkansen was back in full operation in 2 weeks but the third sector, Minamiaso Railway, was able to resume partial service only. Unfortunately, a complete restoration will cost billions of yen and funds are yet to be secured. Japan Railway Journal identifies the challenges and efforts of Kyushu region to recover its railroads.

Première diffusion : 7 octobre 2016

Future Prospects Made in the Past: JR East's Steam Loco Strategy
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S1 E24 Future Prospects Made in the Past: JR East's Steam Loco Strategy

East Japan Railway Company also known as JR East operates 4 preserved steam locomotives and is a popular attraction for tourists. Unfortunately, operating and maintaining locomotives are costly, and techniques developed over time such as manufacturing components and driving skills needs to be passed down to the next generation of workers.

Première diffusion : 14 octobre 2016

Picking Up the Pace: JR Shikoku's Tactics for Survival
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S1 E25 Picking Up the Pace: JR Shikoku's Tactics for Survival

Due to the privatization from Japan National Railway, 6 Japanese Railway Companies were established almost 30 years ago. Shikoku Railway Company, also known as JR Shikoku is the smallest among the 6 and started off with financial difficulties as well as the struggle of competing against the rapidly expanding highways. See how JR Shikoku developed the World's first diesel tilting train which led to the increase of speed and strategies to operate unique tourist trains.

Première diffusion : 11 novembre 2016

Turning Problems into Opportunities: The Tsugaru Railway's Strategy
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S1 E27 Turning Problems into Opportunities: The Tsugaru Railway's Strategy

Tsugaru Railway is a local private railway that runs for 20.7km in Aomori Prefecture, in northern Japan. Its "Stove Train" is now a popular tourist attraction in winter, but 10 years ago the company narrowly escaped crisis when ridership began to significantly decrease due to local depopulation and the shift to motorization. See how an outsider CEO saved the company by gathering funds and came up with unique ideas and turned problems into opportunities. Then see Iwakura High School - a school that teaches railway related curriculums.

Première diffusion : 13 janvier 2017

Japan's World-Class Rail and Wheels
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S1 E28 Japan's World-Class Rail and Wheels

Japanese rails and train wheels are currently gaining worldwide attention due to wear and tear resistance and reliability. The durable rails are used for North America's freight trains that haul hundreds of cars which are stacked in 2. Also, see train wheels from stable operation of Shinkansen that are applied on ICE, a German high-speed railway. In this program, discover the manufacturing process of Japanese rails and train wheels boasting world-class quality.

Première diffusion : 20 janvier 2017

Keihan Electric Railway: Advanced Technology that Dominated the Railway Hub
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S1 E29 Keihan Electric Railway: Advanced Technology that Dominated the Railway Hub

3 railways have been competing for dominance of the Osaka-Kyoto region since the 1920's. The Keihan Electric Railway's many S-curves made it the underdog against Japan Railway Company and Hankyu Railway, but after introducing advanced technology and new innovative services the company is now on top. Join us as we take a look at how Keihan Electric Railway's efforts have made a major impact on the improvement of rail technology in Japan.

Première diffusion : 17 février 2017

The Long Winter of Discontent: One Railway's Battle against Snow
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S1 E30 The Long Winter of Discontent: One Railway's Battle against Snow

The Iiyama Line in Nagano Prefecture operates in one of Japan's snowiest regions. 7.85m of snow has been recorded along the line, which is the record among Japanese railways. Heavy snow is an obstacle that cannot be avoided in this region, so clearing it is crucial to maintaining scheduled operations. In this program, we introduce the latest vehicle that operates as both a snow plow and blower, various countermeasures used to combat snow, and the railway's battle against the long harsh winter.

Première diffusion : 10 mars 2017

Dreams of a Texas Bullet Train: Future Plans for Japan's High-Speed Railways
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S1 E31 Dreams of a Texas Bullet Train: Future Plans for Japan's High-Speed Railways

Japan's high-speed rail system, the shinkansen, may soon be flying across the U.S., with plans to connect 2 major cities in Texas. Traveling between Dallas and Houston now takes up to 4 hours by car or plane, but with support from Tokaido Shinkansen operator, JR Central, the project aims to connect the cities in just 90 minutes. Join us as we look at the Texas Bullet Train, a project scheduled to begin operations in 2023 that could be the foothold for future exports of shinkansen technology.

Première diffusion : 7 avril 2017

Using Railways to Promote Local Tourism: Kyushu Railway Company's Strategy
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S1 E32 Using Railways to Promote Local Tourism: Kyushu Railway Company's Strategy

There are currently over 100 tourist trains in service throughout Japan. Among the various companies operating tourist trains, the Kyushu Railway Company, also known as JR Kyushu, operates 11 unique tourist trains which helps endorse tourism in the area. In this program, we introduce JR Kyushu's popular tourist trains and their strategy that links tourist trains to the revitalization of the region.

Première diffusion : 14 avril 2017

Toden Arakawa Line: A Hidden Gem for Tourists from Overseas
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S1 E33 Toden Arakawa Line: A Hidden Gem for Tourists from Overseas

The Toden Arakawa Line is a streetcar service in the center of Tokyo. There are over 30 stops on the 12.2km line, and transports over 16.6 million people annually. Throughout the years, the line has operated as a means of local transport but recently has been gaining interest among tourists from overseas. In 2015, the line was awarded the "Certificate of Excellence" from the world's largest tourist website, TripAdvisor. In this program, we introduce the Toden Arakawa Line and the everyday lives of local Tokyo residents. Then "Trains in Focus" grants a peek of Yamagata Shinkansen's "Toreiyu Tsubasa".

Première diffusion : 12 mai 2017

All the Comfort You Require: Onboard Services on Japanese Trains
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S1 E34 All the Comfort You Require: Onboard Services on Japanese Trains

From high-speed Shinkansen to tourist trains operated by local railways, onboard trolley services are available on various trains, and is a unique service in Japan. In this program, we introduce various features of the trolley service such as the systems, customer-care training as well as the latest techniques and approaches, which makes onboard trolley services an essential part of rail travel in Japan.

Première diffusion : 19 mai 2017

The Unsung Hero of Japanese Railways: Series Kiha 40 Diesel Trains
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S1 E35 The Unsung Hero of Japanese Railways: Series Kiha 40 Diesel Trains

Series Kiha 40 diesel trains were mass-produced in the late 1970's, and were highly valued on non-electrified lines. These workhorses are made from durable mild steel, and even after the privatization of Japan National Railways and 40 years in service, trains are still operating all over Japan. Kiha 40 trains are easier to refurbish and currently, there are many cases where companies are converting them into fun tourist trains. In this program, we introduce the "unsung hero" of Japan's railways that wrote itself into the history books.

Première diffusion : 16 juin 2017

Airport Express Lines: How Competition is Improving the Ride into the City
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S1 E36 Airport Express Lines: How Competition is Improving the Ride into the City

At Narita and Kansai International Airports, railways providing access into the city must constantly offer better services at lower prices to maintain their market share. JR East's "Narita Express" and Keisei Electric Railway's "Skyliner" operate between Narita Airport and Tokyo, while JR West's "HARUKA" and Nankai Electric Railway's "rapi:t" serve Kansai Airport and Osaka. See the strategies these railways use to attract travelers from overseas, including special discounts and unique services.

Première diffusion : 14 juillet 2017

Prepaid E-money Cards: The Smart Way to Travel in Japan
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S1 E37 Prepaid E-money Cards: The Smart Way to Travel in Japan

15 million people commute in and out of Tokyo every day, and most of them now use prepaid e-money cards. Because one card can be recognized by multiple transport companies, the system has streamlined automated fare collection. A card's IC chip has an e-wallet function, and can store information such as boarding section and expiration dates on monthly passes; all of which can be verified in just 0.2 seconds. See how these cards and the technology behind them have transformed rail travel in Japan.

Première diffusion : 21 juillet 2017

HIGH RAIL 1375: The Tourist Train That Touches New Heights
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S1 E38 HIGH RAIL 1375: The Tourist Train That Touches New Heights

"HIGH RAIL 1375" is JR East's newest tourist train, which started operating in July 2017. The train runs on the JR Koumi Line through the mountains of Nagano and Yamanashi Prefectures; an area famous for its majestic alpine views and beautiful starry skies. The train makes the most of its stunning backdrop, and offers unique services for day and night operations. Come behind the scenes as we take an in-depth look at the development of this new train, and how its revitalizing the local area.

Première diffusion : 11 août 2017

Train Suite Shiki-shima: The High-Tech Luxury Cruise Train
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S1 E39 Train Suite Shiki-shima: The High-Tech Luxury Cruise Train

May 2017 saw the launch of JR East's new cruise train, "Train Suite Shiki-shima". "Cruise trains" are a new type of luxury train that stop at sightseeing spots in Japan. "Train Suite Shiki-shima" is Japan's second cruise train following the launch of JR Kyushu's "SEVEN STARS IN KYUSHU" in 2013, and with JR West's "TWILIGHT EXPRESS MIZUKAZE" coming in June 2017, Japan is entering a new "cruise train" era. See the technology and support that makes this cruise train a truly luxurious experience.

Première diffusion : 8 septembre 2017

A Long-Awaited Whistle: Tobu Railway's Steam Service Revival
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S1 E40 A Long-Awaited Whistle: Tobu Railway's Steam Service Revival

From August 2017, TOBU Railway started operating "SL TAIJU"; a tourist steam train and the first steam service on the railway for 50 years. TOBU Railway discontinued steam services in 1966, leaving them no equipment or facilities, so 8 railway companies across Japan helped out. The Class C11 loco was lent by JR Hokkaido, the passenger cars by other JR companies, while training was done in cooperation with railway companies operating steam locos. See the revival project and the fantastic new "SL TAIJU".

Première diffusion : 15 septembre 2017

Rediscovering Old Horizons: Preservation and Utilization of Railway Heritage
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S1 E41 Rediscovering Old Horizons: Preservation and Utilization of Railway Heritage

Preservation activities are ongoing for old stations and trains that contributed to the modernization of Japan, as they are a vital part of history. Recent examples include an old station in the heart of Tokyo renovated into a commercial complex, disused stations transformed into contemporary art, and a citizen group persevering a historic train through internet fundraising. See how railway heritage is being given a new lease of life, and helping to revitalize local regions.

Première diffusion : 6 octobre 2017

Hankyu Corporation: A Leading Private Railway Company's Business Model
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S1 E42 Hankyu Corporation: A Leading Private Railway Company's Business Model

Hankyu Corporation in Osaka, Japan's second largest metropolitan area, has successfully increased ridership by using diversified business strategies along their railway lines; from developing residential areas and amusement parks, to constructing a new university building and establishing the famous all-female Takarazuka Revue. See how Hankyu maintains its strong brand image with unique strategies like this, and skillfully refurbishes their old cars inside and out into new, high quality trains.

Première diffusion : 20 octobre 2017

Advanced Urban Travel: Japan's Monorail Systems
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S1 E43 Advanced Urban Travel: Japan's Monorail Systems

1957 saw the opening of Japan's first monorail. 60 years on, Japan is a world leader in monorail technology with 11 lines currently in operation covering a distance of 100km. In this program, we take a look at how monorails have become an increasingly popular mode of urban transportation; the unique characteristics and comparative benefits of both straddle and suspended monorail systems; and Japan's well-established monorail technology which has been gaining attention all over the world.

Première diffusion : 17 novembre 2017

Safeguarding the System: Maintaining JR Central's Conventional Line
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S1 E44 Safeguarding the System: Maintaining JR Central's Conventional Line

JR Central, which operates the Japanese high-speed "Tokaido Shinkansen", also operates 12 conventional lines totaling 1,420km. To ensure stable operation, state-of-the-art equipment is used for maintenance, such as the line inspection vehicle "Dr. Tokai", which inspects tracks down to 0.1mm using a two-dimensional laser. Discover how conventional lines are maintained, then meet the specialists who detect deterioration of iron bridges by making full use of their experience and their 5 senses.

Première diffusion : 15 décembre 2017

Driving Forward with Steam: Oigawa Railway's Strategy
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S1 E45 Driving Forward with Steam: Oigawa Railway's Strategy

The Oigawa Railway began operating Japan's first preserved steam locomotive in 1976, and has been a pioneer in the field ever since. Now the company operates 4 steam trains that run more than 300 days a year. Join us as we discover the amazing efforts that make this possible, from their popular "Thomas the Tank Engine" service which has been gaining attention in recent years, to the vital inspections and repairs expertly carried out at the company's own workshop.

Première diffusion : 12 janvier 2018

Hokuriku Shinkansen Update: Re-assessing the Effects and Challenges 3 Years On
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S1 E46 Hokuriku Shinkansen Update: Re-assessing the Effects and Challenges 3 Years On

In 2015, the Hokuriku Shinkansen connected between Tokyo and Kanazawa. 3 years on, hotel construction around Kanazawa terminal is ongoing, tourist numbers have increased and the number of luxury liners stopping at Kanazawa Port has tripled. Meanwhile, the number of people visiting nearby Toyama City has decreased and the city is working hard to attract more visitors. See the economic effects of the Hokuriku Shinkansen after 3 years.

Première diffusion : 19 janvier 2018

JR OITA CITY: The Station Complex that Changed the Game
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S1 E47 JR OITA CITY: The Station Complex that Changed the Game

The 21-story "JR OITA CITY" complex, with over 200 stores, opened at JR Kyushu's Oita Station in 2015. Thanks to this new shopping complex, ridership has increased significantly, positively affecting shops and businesses in the area. See how JR Kyushu worked together with the local community to successfully revitalize the region. In Hands-on Railway History, we also discover the historical BUNGOMORI ROUNDHOUSE MUSEUM, a significant part of Japan's Heritage of Industrial Modernization.

Première diffusion : 15 février 2018

Enoshima Electric Railway: A Good Old 10km Ride
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S1 E48 Enoshima Electric Railway: A Good Old 10km Ride

Enoshima Electric Railway is a 10km local line connecting Kamakura and Fujisawa Stations via Enoshima Station. About 18 million people visit the railway annually. Along the line are famous tourist destinations such as Kamakura and Enoshima Island and the railway itself is an attraction where tourists can escape from their everyday life. See how the company cherishes its history, and the strategies put in place to meet the needs of tourists from overseas.

Première diffusion : 2 mars 2018

A New Generation of Commuter Train: Tokyu Corporation's Series 2020
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S1 E49 A New Generation of Commuter Train: Tokyu Corporation's Series 2020

Tokyu Corporation introduced a new commuter train for the first time in 16 years - the stainless steel "Series 2020", which will operate on the Den-en-toshi Line. The interior has been greatly improved and the new train makes use of cutting-edge technology to ensure safe and secure operation. See the ultra-smooth appearance of the laser-welded exterior, and learn all about its unique manufacturing process. Then, join us for a luxurious ride on "THE ROYAL EXPRESS" operated by Izukyu Corporation, which started service in 2017.

Première diffusion : 6 avril 2018

The Ultimate in Comfort: New Limited Express Super Azusa
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S1 E50 The Ultimate in Comfort: New Limited Express Super Azusa

JR East's new Limited Express "Super Azusa", which operates between Shinjuku in Tokyo and Matsumoto in Nagano Prefecture, started service in December 2017. Discover how this express train has evolved, from the latest technology used to handle the many curves, to the improvements in comfort. Also discover the reasons why this is the first new vehicle to be developed in 24 years. In "Trains in Focus", join us as we take a ride on a beautiful sightseeing train that runs by the foot of the World Cultural Heritage Site - Mt. Fuji.

Première diffusion : 20 avril 2018

Tobu Railway's Revaty Express: Moving Forward to a Better Nikko
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S1 E51 Tobu Railway's Revaty Express: Moving Forward to a Better Nikko

Tobu Railway's new limited express "Revaty", which runs toward Nikko, began service in 2017. A unique characteristic of the 6-car train is its ability to split into 2 separate 3-car trains which can head to different destinations. In an effort to attract tourists from overseas, Tobu Railway has also created brochures and facilities to assist Muslim visitors. See the different strategies Tobu Railway have put in place to revitalize the area. Also, see the new tourist train "IROHA" which began service on JR East's Nikko Line from April 2018.

Première diffusion : 24 mai 2018