Japan Railway Journal

With the expansion of the Shinkansen, Japan's night trains all but disappeared. Now, the last remaining sleeper expresses, along with a new night train, are trending once more. We take a closer look.

Railway news from the latter half of 2025. Join us as we look back on new railway vehicles, cutting-edge technologies, commemorative events and more from across Japan.

In regions that experience heavy snowfall, railways use snowplows in combination with other systems to keep the trains running. See how the railways maintain service in Japan's snow country.

Railway Technical Research Institute leads R&D for Japan's railways, from the JR companies to smaller regional lines. See the cutting-edge research that's shaping the future of rail transport.

Hojo Railway in Hyogo Prefecture managed to boost ridership with the introduction of volunteer stationmasters and an old, beloved diesel car. See how this regional railway is working to stay on top.

Every year, the Blue Ribbon and Laurel Prizes honor the finest newly built and redesigned trains. Meet the winners for 2026!

Railway news from across Japan for the first half of 2026. Join us as we look back on milestones and anniversaries, efforts to preserve and revive steam locomotives, and railway events.

Iwakuni City has decided to keep the third-sector Nishikigawa Railway running for the next 10 years. See the efforts being made to revitalize the local line, including a tourist train.

Cycle trains (trains that allow cyclists to board with their bicycles fully assembled) are growing in popularity. See a dedicated cycle train in Chiba, as well as a local railway in Niigata.

Toyohashi Railroad's City Line in Aichi Prefecture has been running for over 100 years. See how urban development and local support has kept the streetcar on track.

The Toden Arakawa Line streetcar helps locals get around and now brings overseas visitors to the charms of old-town Tokyo. Ride its redesigned car and see fresh ideas from people along the line.