Most Third Sector railways are former nationally owned lines in rural areas that run at a loss. Recently, Isumi Railway decided on a new strategy to change this. In 2009, they opened their doors to the public to hire a president. They chose a former international airline operations manager, who is also a hardcore rail fan. Discover how his unique perspective and unconventional ideas lead to the revival of the Isumi Railway.
Overview
Discover the secrets of Japan's railways, from the newest technologies and systems in use, to travel tips and must-see places.
S01E01 The Railway Revival: 4 Years After the Great Earthquake
March 9, 2015 28 min
The devastating Earthquake damaged or destroyed 4,070km of the railways along the Pacific coastline of North Eastern Japan. See how the unique Bus Rapid Transit system helped to quickly restore vital transportation needs, and the...
S01E02 The New Shinkansen: Technology and Economic Effects
April 10, 2015 28 min
This month's Special Rail Report focuses on the latest addition to Japan's high-speed rail network that started mid-March. See the new Shinkansen W7 series in action, the measures taken to combat the snow on route...
Most Third Sector railways are former nationally owned lines in rural areas that run at a loss. Recently, Isumi Railway decided on a new strategy to change this. In 2009, they opened their doors to...
S01E04 Diesel Hybrid Trains: Japan's World Leading Technology
June 12, 2015 28 min
Japan's diesel hybrid trains use the very latest lithium-ion batteries. Compared to conventional diesel railcars, diesel hybrid trains reduce fuel consumption, carbon emissions and noise pollution. Join us for a ride on the eco-friendly "Resort...
S01E05 Battery Hybrid Trains: Development of the Global Technology
July 11, 2015 28 min
Battery-hybrid trains draw power from both contact lines and their onboard batteries, and they are gaining worldwide attention due to their eco-friendliness and energy-saving technology. See Japan's world-first lithium-ion battery train "ACCUM" in action, plus...
S01E06 Japan's Subway Technology in High Density Operation
August 14, 2015 28 min
Japan's subways have a reputation for being energy-saving and eco-friendly, and companies have been successfully exporting their technology around the world. Discover why the permanent magnet motors in use on the Ginza Line's 1000 Series,...
S01E07 The Secret of Operating Preserved Steam Locomotives
October 9, 2015 28 min
In Japan, regions operating preserved steam locomotives benefit from vital boosts to the local economy. Discover the secrets behind making these historic workhorses invaluable tourist attractions, and how the practice is gaining popularity. Then meet...
S01E08 Special Preview - Hokkaido Shinkansen: Hopes and Challenges
November 13, 2015 28 min
On March 26, 2016, the new Series H5 will enter service on Japan's latest shinkansen line, which runs through the world's longest undersea tunnel between Honshu and Hokkaido. Rena Matsui reports on the build-up to...
S01E09 Yamanote Line: The Green Rotating Heart of Tokyo
December 4, 2015 28 min
With trains making 650 round trips each day, the JR Yamanote Line is the artery of Tokyo's railways. On November 30, the new Series E235 entered service on the green-colored loop line, and is scheduled...
