1931
95 years ago
OpeningJapan
Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Opens
Tokyo Metro
Tokyo
August 15, 1931
Summary
Japan's first subway line, the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, began service between Asakusa and Ueno on August 15, 1931.
Full Story
The Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Japan's inaugural subway, opened its initial 2.2 km segment on August 15, 1931. Built to relieve severe street congestion in Tokyo, it used 1,435 mm standard gauge and third-rail electrification. Engineer Noritsugu Hayakawa led the project after studying European and American systems. The line later expanded to 14.3 km and became a model for rapid urban transit across Asia. Its opening coincided with Japan's modernization efforts and demonstrated advanced tunneling techniques through dense urban areas.
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Quick Facts
- Date
- August 15, 1931
- Event Type
- Opening
- Country
- Japan
- Years Ago
- 95
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