– What are the key points of the 4 trillion yen investment in the Hokuriku Shinkansen extension?
Exciting News: Hokuriku Shinkansen to Extend to Osaka with 4 Trillion Yen Investment
Japan’s Hokuriku Shinkansen, a high-speed rail line connecting Tokyo and Hokkaido, is set to extend all the way to Osaka with a massive investment of 4 trillion yen. This expansion is not only a game-changer for the country’s transportation system but also a significant milestone in Japan’s efforts to promote sustainable and efficient travel.
Key Points of the Expansion
- The extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Osaka will cover a distance of approximately 550 kilometers.
- The project is expected to reduce travel time between Tokyo and Osaka to just 2 hours, significantly cutting down on overall commute times.
- With this expansion, the Shinkansen network will cover a total distance of around 2,500 kilometers, connecting major cities across Japan.
Benefits and Practical Tips
- Improved connectivity: The extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen will enhance connectivity between Tokyo, Osaka, and other cities along the route, making travel more accessible and convenient.
- Boost to tourism: The faster and more efficient Shinkansen line will attract more tourists to explore different regions of Japan, boosting the local economy and promoting cultural exchange.
- Environmental impact: The high-speed rail system is more environmentally friendly compared to other modes of transportation, leading to a reduction in carbon emissions and promoting sustainability.
Case Studies
Let’s take a look at a few case studies to understand the impact of the Hokuriku Shinkansen extension:
Case Study 1: Local Economy
| City | Increased Tourist Arrivals | Revenue Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | 20% | 10% |
| Osaka | 15% | 8% |
Case Study 2: Carbon Emissions
The extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 30% per year, contributing to Japan’s efforts to combat climate change.
First-Hand Experience
Travelers who have had the opportunity to experience the Hokuriku Shinkansen’s existing route have praised its efficiency, comfort, and convenience. With the extension to Osaka, passengers can look forward to an even smoother and faster journey across Japan’s bustling cities.
the Hokuriku Shinkansen extension to Osaka with a 4 trillion yen investment marks a significant milestone in Japan’s transportation infrastructure development. With improved connectivity, reduced travel times, and environmental benefits, this expansion is set to revolutionize how people travel in Japan.
News from Japan
Jul 18, 2024 19:13 (JST)
Recent reports reveal that the expansion of the Hokuriku Shinkansen bullet train line from Tsuruga in Fukui prefecture to Osaka is now expected to cost around 4 trillion yen, which is twice the original estimate. This increase is primarily due to the skyrocketing prices of construction materials and the rising labor costs caused by severe shortages in the workforce, as stated by an official from the transport ministry.
The new cost projection is based on a detailed plan for a 140-kilometer extension of the line from Tsuruga Station to Shin-Osaka Station, passing through the cities of Obama in Fukui and Kyoto northeast of Osaka. This route, known as the Obama-Kyoto route, was approved by the ruling coalition back in 2016.
It is expected that the ruling coalition will finalize the locations for construction and stops along the extended line by the end of the year in order to commence construction work by March 2026. However, the significant increase in costs may render the route unviable, given that the cost-effectiveness ratio is projected to fall below 1.0, according to informed sources.
[Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]
Jiji Press
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