Shinkansen - the Bullet Train

The Shinkansen – the Bullet train – was developed in Japan to provide a rapid transit link between Tokyo and Osaka and opened for service in 1964, regularly cruising at 200 km/hr. It was the world's first high-speed train service, and its distinctive blue and white livery flashing by became a symbol of Japanese technological expertise. Encouraged by its technological and commercial success several other countries began to develop their own high-speed trains, notably France with the TGV (see separate display).

Yet a high-speed rail project was first discussed back in the 1930s and in 1940 a steam train ran at 124 mph, though it was not until 1958 that the project was revived and the first "bullet" trains were designed, and construction on the line begun. That line opened in 1964 in time for the Tokyo Olympics and carried a million passengers in its first three years. Since then the Shinkansen system has been expanded, providing service from one end of Honshu (Japan's main island) to the other, Hachinohe to Fukuoka, linking through Tokyo.

The Nozomi 500 Series are among the most modern, though a 700 series is in operation and an 800 series is under construction. The N500 is distinguished by its 15 metre-long power car nose, giving an extremely aerodynamic profile. The driver's cab has a dome canopy to allow excellent forward vision. Photo courtesy of Japan Railways Group New York Office.

The 500 Series also boasts an innovative pantograph design, shaped like a wing, which helps reduce wind resistance at high speed. Drivers' instruments are laid out in groups according to their function. Extensive soundproofing means there is little sensation of speed inside trains, and wind noise is at a minimum, though one of the main constraints to higher speeds is the noise heard outside as the train goes by – noise pollution. Although much higher speeds are feasible (and on test runs have been achieved) concerns about noise pollution are limiting the top speeds to about 320 km/hr.

From its inauguration in 1964 over 6 billion passengers have used the service and the reliability is such that the average arrival time is within six seconds of the timetable – yes, just six seconds !