Tokaido Shinkansen Test Runs Begin

On September 11, 1964, Japanese National Railways conducted early high-speed test runs on the Tokaido Shinkansen between Tokyo and Osaka. Designed to connect major cities at speeds over 200 km/h, the project overcame mountainous terrain and seismic risks with innovative engineering like dedicated tracks and aerodynamic trains. Led by figures such as Hideo Shima, it represented a leap in rail technology. The line's success transformed Japanese travel, boosted the economy, and inspired global high-speed rail networks, remaining a model for enthusiasts building bullet train layouts.