Japan’s first new tram system in 75 years begins operations

Japan’s first new tram system in 75 years started working in Utsunomiya on Saturday, with options designed to make it simple to entry for the aged and wheelchair customers because the nation’s inhabitants ages.

The so-called next-generation tram system in Tochigi Prefecture runs between the east facet of Utsunomiya Station and the close by city of Haga, overlaying the 14.6-kilometer route in 48 minutes.

The prepare, which options yellow stripes, has been dubbed the “Lightline” after the frequent lightning noticed in Utsunomiya that has earned the capital of Tochigi the nickname “thunder capital.”

Working on renewable power, the prepare vehicles are designed with low flooring and lowered vibration for ease of entry.

Utsunomiya Mayor Eiichi Sato mentioned at a gap ceremony that he hopes the brand new transit community will contribute to “exchanges amongst individuals and convey power to the native space.”

Utsunomiya’s new tram operates within the metropolis on Saturday.
| Kyodo

A particular prepare commemorating the beginning of the service left the Utsunomiya Station East cease. A crowd cheered and watched the departure.

The Haga Utsunomiya Gentle Rail Transit, which value ¥68.4 billion ($467 million) to construct, was initially deliberate to open in March 2022, however the schedule was postponed twice on account of a delay in building work. A derailing incident occurred throughout a trial operation in November.

The Utsunomiya Municipal Authorities can be planning a 5-kilometer extension of the tramway from the west facet of Utsunomiya Station by 2035.

The final time a brand new tram system opened in Japan was in Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture.