1964
62 years ago
OpeningJapan
World's First High-Speed Rail Line Opens
Japanese National Railways
Tokyo to Osaka, Japan
October 1, 1964
Summary
Japan's Tokaido Shinkansen, the world's first dedicated high-speed railway, began service between Tokyo and Osaka.
Full Story
On this day, Japan's Tokaido Shinkansen began commercial service, revolutionizing rail travel and proving high-speed rail was viable.
**Opening Day:**
- Route: Tokyo to Osaka (320 miles)
- Speed: 130 mph (210 km/h) - unprecedented at the time
- Travel time: 4 hours (vs. 6.5 hours by conventional train)
- Opened just days before the Tokyo Olympics
**Engineering Marvel:**
- Dedicated tracks (no freight or local trains)
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Quick Facts
- Date
- October 1, 1964
- Event Type
- Opening
- Country
- Japan
- Years Ago
- 62
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