1962
64 years ago
ConstructionJapan
Tōkaidō Shinkansen Construction Begins
Japanese National Railways
Tokyo
June 10, 1962
Summary
Groundbreaking occurred for Japan's first high-speed rail line between Tokyo and Osaka.
Full Story
On June 10, 1962, construction started on the Tōkaidō Shinkansen, Japan's pioneering bullet train corridor. Engineers tackled mountainous terrain and dense urban areas using advanced tunneling and viaduct techniques with 0 Series trains designed for 210 km/h speeds. Led by JNR president Shinji Sogō, the project overcame post-war budget constraints to connect economic centers ahead of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. The line revolutionized passenger travel, cutting Tokyo-Osaka time from seven hours to four, and set global standards for high-speed rail safety and punctuality that influenced networks worldwide.
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Quick Facts
- Date
- June 10, 1962
- Event Type
- Construction
- Country
- Japan
- Years Ago
- 64
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