Osaka Municipal Tramway Opens

June 29, 1910 saw the inauguration of Osaka's first municipal tram lines, operated with double-truck electric cars on 1,435 mm gauge. The system addressed rapid industrialization and population growth by connecting factories, ports, and residential districts. Engineers overcame narrow streets and river crossings with innovative viaducts. The network eventually expanded to over 100 km, serving millions and shaping modern Osaka's layout. It demonstrated Japan's rapid adoption of Western rail technology while adapting it to local needs, influencing later subway development.