Japan has given the green light for the development of a new high-speed maglev train line that will link Tokyo (Shinagawa) to Nagoya. As reported by The Japan Times, Shizuoka Governor Yasutomo Suzuki announced to the assembly on Tuesday that the construction of the Shizuoka segment of the Chuo Shinkansen maglev line will proceed, effectively ending a nine-year impasse. The project had been on hold since 2017 due to environmental concerns.
The Shizuoka section is regarded as the most difficult segment of the Chuo Shinkansen maglev line, which aims to connect Tokyo’s Shinagawa Station with Nagoya Station in Aichi Prefecture.
According to Central Japan Railway Company (JR Central), the new maglev trains are expected to reach speeds of up to 500 kilometers per hour. The Chuo Shinkansen service will significantly cut travel time between Shinagawa and Nagoya to approximately 40 minutes, while the trip from Shinagawa to Osaka is projected to take about 67 minutes.
Currently, the travel time between Tokyo’s Shinagawa Station and Nagoya is around 86 minutes, and the journey to Osaka takes approximately 134 minutes on the traditional Tokaido Shinkansen, which has been operational for over six decades.
This upcoming high-speed rail line will connect Shinagawa and Nagoya through the prefectures of Kanagawa, Yamanashi, Shizuoka, Nagano, and Gifu.
JR Central anticipates that the Chuo Shinkansen maglev line will be operational by 2036. However, the construction costs have risen considerably due to challenging conditions; the original estimate of ¥5.5 trillion was adjusted to ¥7 trillion in 2021 and further increased to ¥11 trillion in October of the previous year.
JR Central describes the Superconducting Maglev System as an advanced technology that allows trains to glide without physical contact with the tracks. Unlike traditional trains that rely on wheels, maglev trains utilize magnetic forces generated by superconducting magnets on the train and coils positioned along the guideway.
To achieve powerful propulsion, the superconducting magnets exploit the phenomenon of “superconductivity,” which occurs when electrical resistance disappears at low temperatures. This technology allows the train to levitate approximately 10 centimeters above the tracks, a feature that enhances safety in Japan’s earthquake-prone regions. These attributes enable stable travel at ultra-high speeds of 500 kilometers per hour, surpassing conventional railway capabilities.
Anish Mondal is an experienced journalist with over nine years of expertise in reporting on transportation infrastructure. Currently, he is part of the editorial team at Indianexpress.com, focusing on significant developments in high-impact sectors.
Professional Journey: Anish began his career at Rajya Sabha Television (now known as Sansad TV), gaining a solid understanding of legislative processes and governance. In 2018, he shifted to digital financial journalism at FinancialExpress.com, where he honed his skills in market analysis and corporate coverage. Prior to joining The Indian Express in 2025, he played a vital role at ETNowNews.com.
Education & Expertise: Anish’s reporting is supported by a strong academic foundation in communication and the humanities:
- Master of Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC) – Apeejay Stya University
- Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Production (PGTVRJP) – Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication
- Bachelor of Arts (English Honours) – University of Calcutta
Areas of Coverage: Connectivity: In-depth reporting on the expansion of Indian Railways and National Highway networks.
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