Infrastructure • High speed Rail • Japan
➤ See also: High speed train in France – High speed train in Germany – High speed train in Italy – High speed train in Taïwan – Economics
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In brief
Shinkansen trains are electric multiple units (EMUs), which provide fast acceleration and deceleration, and reduce track wear thanks to their lighter weight compared to traditional locomotives. All passenger cars are pressurized to maintain stable cabin air pressure when traveling through tunnels at high speeds.
Unlike conventional Japanese trains, standard Shinkansen (excluding mini-Shinkansen) are built to a larger loading gauge, allowing for wider coaches. This makes it possible to arrange seats 5-abreast (2+3) in Standard Class, as opposed to the usual 4-abreast (2+2) configuration. Some models, such as the E1 and E4 series, even offer 6-abreast seating (3+3), significantly increasing capacity.
Infrastructure managers: 5 private companies
Main HS operators: 5 private operators
First services: October 1964
Lenght of network : 1,750km (with reference to lines with ≥ 250 km/h speed, 25kV supply)
The absence of separate power cars also contributes to maximizing passenger space in a shorter train. However, mini-Shinkansen trains, which run on converted conventional lines, are restricted to the narrower loading gauge of 1,067 mm track.
The Shinkansen has always used a distributed traction EMU layout, starting with the 0 Series, which had all axles powered. This contrasts with many international high-speed trains like the ICE, TGV, or KTX, which rely on locomotives. Japan favors EMUs due to their superior acceleration, making them ideal for Shinkansen lines with more frequent stops over shorter distances compared to other high-speed rail systems globally.
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Infrastructure • High speed Rail • Lexical