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How Japan's Trains Stay on Time

Ever wonder how Japan's trains stay so precisely on time? Hideki Hashimoto at the transport division of JR East's transport and rolling stock department explains the secret—and it's not just technology.

Akita Nairiku Line: Winter Wonderland by Rail

Through the heavy Akita snowfall, a train with one or two cars makes its way across bridges that span deep valleys and through tunnels that burrow into the heart of the mountains of the region.

Thomas the Tank Engine Takes Japan

It may come as a bit of a surprise, but Thomas the Tank Engine is one of Japan's best-loved children's characters. In fact, the country boasts multiple theme parks and working trains dedicated to Thomas and his friends.

The Storied History of the Yamanote Line

The Yamanote Line is Tokyo's, if not Japan's, most iconic rail line, and also one of its busiest. It's time for a special Yamanote trip—a journey through its past!

Ride 10 Gorgeous Steam Locomotives in Japan

Japan is famous for its modern trains, but it's also a great lover of traditional steam engines.

Where Do Old Trains Go?

Most people envision Japan's trains as shiny, advanced, and new—but where do the old trains go when they're no longer needed?

Japan's Most Popular Train Passes

Japan's railway companies have created multitudes of passes to attract passengers, which can be confusing and off-putting at first to novice riders. Let's check out some of the passes so you'll be ready to ride the rails!

Buffalo Car to Yubu Island

Take an unbelievable journey to Yubu Island, Okinawa by 'Buffalo Car.'

3 Ways to Ride High Above Tokyo

A blast from the past but a vision of the future, monorails offer a unique view high up above the metropolis. These three videos take you on a ride over Tokyo without having to leave your home!

The Next Generation Express Train

Seibu Group announces a new train concept that would be one with its environment.

Japan's Magnificent Maglev

Japan's fast and super-efficient rail services have been the envy of the world for years, but the nation's newest train makes the speedy Shinkansen look like a tortoise.

Take the Train through Japan's Deepest Gorge

The Kurobe Gorge Railway is a perfect choice for tourists looking for something spectacular.

The Shinkansen Network in Japan

A visit to Japan is incomplete without some travel on the Shinkansen, Japan’s bullet train network. With a new line connecting Hokkaido, there isn’t a better time to see all of Japan in the blink of an eye!

Merry Melodies for Train Departures

After taking into account suggestions from the public, Tokyo Metro has finally settled on some J-Pop jingles for train departures.

5 Reasons to Use Metropolitan Trains

Commuting in metropolitan areas has its drawbacks, but we're here to offer five great reasons to board those busy trains!

Aichi's Maglev Still Running Strong

YouTubers Rachel & Jun introduce Linimo, one of only two maglev (magnetic levitation) trains presently open to public use in the world, the other being in Shanghai.

5 Top Trainspotting Sites in Tokyo

Want to enjoy some of Tokyo's best trainspotting sites? Here are five fantastic places to get the best views of Tokyo's trains without even entering a station!

Seat Orientation May Improve Station Safety

JR West has uncovered a simple solution for reducing the number of drunken customers falling onto its train tracks.

Riding Shotgun on a Subway

Ever wonder how a subway conductor sees the world? This video will give you a rare opportunity to hop in the driver's seat!

How to Move a Rail Line in a Single Night

Watch this amazing video to see how 1,200 station workers in Shibuya shifted the tracks of the Toyoko Line from above ground to underground in just one night in March 2013.

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