Welcome to our website! Japan International Transport and Tourism Institute, USA (JITTI USA), is an independent research institute which studies various kinds of US-Japan and... Events JITTI-APTA Rail Symposium 2026 Enhancing Economic Impact, Innovation and the Customer Experience through Major Projects and Mega Events Videos on Demand VIEW ALL VIDEOS Events JITTI-APTA Rail Symposium 2026 : Enhancing Economic Impact, Innovation and the Customer Experience through Major Projects and Mega Events Thursday, March 26th | Hybrid Event: Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center and Held Virtually in English and Japanese In both the United States and Japan, railways are a vital foundation supporting economic activity. In the U.S., major projects such as modernization along the Northeast Corridor are underway, and investment in rail-centered public transportation is accelerating ahead of mega events including the FIFA World Cup 2026. Meanwhile in Japan, alongside ongoing advancements in rail development and station-centered urban development in major metropolitan areas such as Tokyo and Osaka, network enhancements and customer-experience initiatives linked to international events have already been implemented. Investment by Japanese rolling stock manufacturers in the U.S. has also contributed to local communities. Against this backdrop, the railway sector has become a key area for sharing expertise and strengthening bilateral relations. This symposium will bring together government officials and railway operators to discuss expanding the economic impact of railway investment and leveraging mega events to enhance the customer experience. VIEW ALL EVENTS Research Reports Basic Policy Directions of Transportation and Tourism under the Second Trump Administration: Key Characteristics of Policy Management in the First Year after Inauguration Author: Kazuya Fukuhara | Tourism & More Trends in Decarbonization Policies for the Aviation and Airport Sectors in the United States Author: Yukiko Nakamura | Civil Aviation Recent Developments in the Revitalization of the U.S. Maritime Industry: Application of Section 301 under the U.S. Trade Act Author: Kazuya Fukuhara & Hiroyuki Yamagami | Maritime Transportation VIEW ALL REPORTS JITTI JOURNAL March 2026 Volume 13 Issue 2 | Feature: Naoki Sato | Cultural Article: Mamiko Kim Rail in the Greater Tokyo Area will be easier to ride with new Tap-to-Pay turnstiles. Read all about it in this month's Feature Article. Meanwhile, with spring just around the corner, the Cultural Article introduces Japan's sakura treats and how you can enjoy them in the D.C. area, through grocery store finds or making it at home. January 2026 Volume 13 Issue 1 | Feature: Yosuke Yamashita | Cultural Article: Suzannah Nevas In this journal's Featured Article, discover how Japan, along with it's strategic alliance with the U.S., is reshaping global shipbuilding and what it means for the future. Furthermore, find how Sapporo, Japan finds delight in the winter season in their annual Yuki Matsuri (snow festival). November 2025 Volume 12 Issue 6 | Feature: Yuta Arai | Cultural Article: Tomomi Dodd Read our Feature introducing a world-leading Coast Guard graduate course and have an intimate look at a Shinto-style wedding in our Cultural Article. VIEW ALL OTHER PUBLICATIONS

Rail Symposium 2026: “Enhancing Economic Impact, Innovation and the Customer Experience through Major Projects and Mega Events” Hosted by JITTI and APTA Rail Symposium 2026 Enhancing Economic Impact, Innovation and the Customer Experience through Major Projects and Mega Events A JITTI and APTA Co-hosted Event: Thursday, March 26th 3:00- 6:00 PM EST (Followed by a Reception) A Free Hybrid Event: Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center (Pavilion Room- 2nd Floor) 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004 / Virtually hosted in English and Japanese Official Participant of the 2026 National Cherry Blossom Festival Register Timetable Directions to Venue Survey Download the Flyer (in English and Japanese) Overview In April 2024, JITTI USA and APTA co-hosted the “Rail Symposium 2024” in Washington, D.C., where participants discussed the social and economic value of forming intercity and intracity railway networks, as well as their contributions to urban attractiveness and resilience. As a result, the U.S. and Japan shared a common understanding that railways are an indispensable part of the economic infrastructure. Since then, the economic importance of railways has been further underscored in both countries. Major projects are underway in the U.S., including those along the Northeast Corridor such as tunnel improvements, the introduction of new Acela trains, and the redevelopment of New York’s Penn Station. In addition, public transportation improvements are accelerating ahead of upcoming international events, such as the FIFA World Cup in the Summer of 2026 and the Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics. Meanwhile, Congress has advanced discussions on a new federal surface transportation bill for the period beginning in October 2026, drawing attention to the importance of continued, stable and significant investment on public transportation and passenger rail. In Japan, Takanawa Gateway City in the Tokyo area will have its grand opening on March 28, 2026, while in the Osaka area initiatives such as development of the Naniwasuji Line and redevelopment of Umekita (the Osaka Station North District) are also progressing. In addition, advancements have been made as a result of international events, such as multilingual support and accessibility measures introduced for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (held in 2021), and railway development for the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo. Japanese rolling stock manufacturers are also entering the U.S. market, contributing to the U.S. rail infrastructure and the local economy through rolling stock supply and job creation, including the establishment of manufacturing facilities. Railway investments are generating significant economic benefits and innovation in both countries, increasing efficient mobility options for all, improving the customer experience, and creating new business and job opportunities. Mega events are providing opportunities to accelerate these investments in and contribute to enhanced service quality as a lasting legacy. The railway sector is therefore an important field for sharing expertise and deepening U.S.–Japan cooperation. Such cooperation will not only contribute to the continued development of the railway sector in both countries but also strengthen overall bilateral relations through deeper economic ties. Based on the above, the 2026 symposium will invite government officials and railway operators from both the United States and Japan to discuss important future issues for both countries, such as expanding the economic ripple effects of railway investment and leveraging mega events to improve the rail customer experience. UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) that this symposium covers: Opening Remarks Masafumi Shukuri Chairman, Japan International Transport and Tourism Institute, USA (JITTI) Chairman, Japan Transport and Tourism Research Institute (JTTRI) Bio Paul Skoutelas President and CEO, American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Bio Greetings by Guest of Honor Shigeo Yamada Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the United States of America Bio Keynote Speeches David Armstrong Fink Administrator, Federal Railroad Administration Bio Yoshimichi Terada Vice-Minister for Transport, Tourism and International Affairs, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) Bio Panel Discussion 1 Railway Investment and Economic Impact Moderator Tom Wright President and CEO, Regional Plan Association (RPA) Bio Panelists Roger Harris President, Amtrak Bio Janno Lieber Chair and CEO, New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority Bio Hidetoshi Miura Senior Director, North America Commercial Development and Japanese Synergies, Hitachi Rail STS USA, Inc. Bio Nobuhiko Takeichi Senior Executive Officer, Deputy Senior General Manager, Regional Revitalization and Development Headquarters, JR West Bio Panel Discussion 2 Mega Events and Public Transportation Safety and Accessibility Improvements Moderator Carlos M. Braceras, P.E. Executive Director, Utah Department of Transportation Bio Panelists Conan Cheung Chief Operations Officer, LA Metro Bio Ryan D. Coholan Chief Operating Officer, Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) Bio Kiyoshi Eguchi Executive Officer (Railways); Deputy General Manager, Transportation Business Unit; General Manager, Expo Transportation Management Center; General Manager, Safety Management Division; Osaka Metro Co., Ltd.（Osaka Metro） Bio Jannet Walker-Ford Secretary-Treasurer, APTA; Business Line Executive, Advisory and Planning, WSP USA Bio Noriyoshi Yamagami Managing Executive Officer, Tokyo Metro Bio Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center (Pavilion Room- 2nd Floor) 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004 Register Timetable Directions to Venue Survey Survey to open on event day Download the Flyer (in English and Japanese)

The JITTI Journal is a bimonthly publication of the Japan International Transport and Tourism Institute, USA (JITTI USA), in which JITTI USA shares information on transport and tourism developments in Japan and elsewhere, as well as recent JITTI USA programs. As a supplement to our regular events, we hope that the Journal likewise serves as a resource for the transport and tourism communities. JITTI Journal Filter by Year Reset March 2026 Main Page: Read More Feature Article: Japan’s Rail Tickets and Payment System: The Latest Developments Cultural Article: Sakura Snacks and Drinks: Japan’s Seasonal Treats for Spring January 2026 Main Page: Read More Feature Article: Japan’s Initiatives on Revitalizing the Shipbuilding Industry Cultural Article: Yuki Matsuri November 2025 Main Page: Read More Feature Article: Graduate Course Specifically Focused on Coast Guard Studies Cultural Article: My Japanese Shinto-Style Wedding September 2025 Main Page: Read More Feature Article: Regional Revitalization Centered on Airports: Initiatives at Japanese Airports Cultural Article: 110, 119 and Ten Other Speed Dials July 2025 Main Page: Read More Feature Article: Amendment of Japan’s Civil Aeronautics Act in Response to the Haneda Airport Runway Collision Cultural Article: Japanese Horror: A Look Through Time of Heart-racing Films May 2025 Main Page: Read More Feature Article: Status of Automated Driving on Subways Cultural Article: Hotaru Matsuri 1 2 3 4 5 1 ... 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 ... 9 Pre-2018 Journals

JITTI Journal Cultural Article March 2026 Back to All JITTI Journals March 2026 Cultural Article Sakura Snacks and Drinks: Japan’s Seasonal Treats for Spring By Mamiko Kim In the D.C. region, within the mix of snowy weather has been days of glowing sunshine and warmth, teasing the coming spring and with it the promise of flowers abloom. This year’s display of fragrance and color is sure to be even more beautiful, as 250 cherry blossom trees were gifted from Japan in commemoration of the United States’ 250 th birthday earlier this year. While flower viewing, or hanami in Japanese, is beloved across nations, there is one aspect of the Japanese tradition that is less common here in the States, and that is the inclusion of another of the five senses- taste! Often hanami includes the inclusion of eating and drinking under the cherry blossoms. As such, I hope to introduce seasonal sakura foods and drinks, some traditional and some modern, that are commonly sold in Japan to coincide with the blooming of the cherry blossom trees. In preparation of this article, I went to several Asian grocery stores in the D.C. region and also checked out the websites of locally owned shops to see whether I could spot these items, and have made note of whether they can easily be found! When I couldn’t find it locally, I’ve written how to still get or make them. 1. Sakura-mochi Sakura-mochi is a traditional treat made of pounded sweet rice that is dyed pink, filled with velvety red bean paste, and wrapped in a salt-pickled cherry blossom leaf. The entire thing is edible and has a sophisticated balance of flavors. The sweetness from the rice and red bean is beautifully countered by the salty-sour pickling of the leaf, and the bean paste also provides some creaminess to each bite. Sakura-mochi is found during the cherry blossom season, but also even before the blooms arrive. Some regions of Japan also eat it on March 3 rd during Hina Matsuri (Doll Festival/ Girl’s Day) as part of those celebrations. As such, sakura-mochi is a quintessential spring dessert in Japan. Spotted in the DC region?🌸 Yes! Sakura-mochi was by far the easiest to spot of the items on this list, and could be found in multiple Asian grocery stores, including several HMarts across the area and Marufuji in Vienna, VA. Sakura-mochi 2. Hanami Dango Hanami Dango are striking in their appearance, and can often be found at outdoor food stalls while strolling and viewing the cherry blossoms in Japan. Pink, white, and green bite-size rice dumplings are lined in this order, and conveniently skewered on a stick for easy holding while walking. Sweet, soft, and chewy, the treat has extra meaning, as each color reflects the experience one might have while viewing the cherry blossoms. The soft pink represents the flowers themselves, the white, lingering snow, and the green for new blades of grass growing as the weather warms. It certainly understandable why this treat would be so popular during the flower-viewing season. Spotted in the DC region?🌸 Sadly, no, I could not find hanami dango in the Asian grocery stores nearby. However, this may be due to timing. While sakura-mochi can be eaten from earlier in the season, hanami dango is usually eaten in mid-March to April. I was looking for items in late February in preparation for this article, so there’s still a good chance that they might make an appearance close by soon! For those who can’t wait, please find this recipe to make hanami dango at home: www.okonomikitchen.com Hanami Dango | 花見団子 - Okonomi Kitchen This Hanami Dango recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients. Chewy and tender with the perfect amount of sweetness! Hanami Dango 3. Sakura Drinks There are many variations of sakura-flavored drinks in Japan. One traditional option, is Sakura-yu, a cherry blossom herbal tea. Preserved sakura blooms are dried after having been pickled in plum vinegar and salt. Once ready to consume, hot water brings them back to life, and they seem to slowly blossom again in your cup, giving an artful display and a gently floral and slightly sour and salty taste. However, there are many modern takes on sakura drinks too. For example, it is common and legal in Japan for people to enjoy an alcoholic beverage while sitting under a cherry blossom tree, and many Japanese breweries now offer seasonal sakura-flavored items. Additionally, Starbucks Japan announces a cherry-blossom themed menu to much fanfare every year. This year’s lineup includes a “Sakura Saku Yo” Latte (“The Cherry Blossoms Will Bloom! Latte”) with steamed milk and sakura syrup decorated with a chocolate cherry tree and pink shavings. With so many sakura-flavored options to choose from, everyone can enjoy their favorite drink while celebrating the beauty of the season. Spotted in the D.C. region?🌸 Depends on what you are looking for! At Marufuji, I found sakura-matcha tea bags from Aomori, Japan. D.C. Sake Company offers several alcoholic drinks with sakura notes, including a Kanazawa Sakura Ale brewed with sakura yeast from Kenrokuen Garden, which can be ordered online. However, I could not find the pickled and dried sakura blossoms needed for Sakura-yu in our area. To try this drink, you’ll have to order them online or make your own . Of course, our U.S. Starbucks, while announcing cherry blossom themed merchandise this year, does not have sakura-flavored drinks on the menu for Spring 2026. Instead, readers might need to make copy-cat versions at home, such as by using this recipe: www.countryhillcottage.com Sakura Latte Sakura latte is a sweet and creamy warm drink that blends milk with cherry blossom powder. Sakura-yu "Sakura Saku Yo" Starbucks Japan 2026 Spring Drink Lineup: It includes the latte described in the article (left) along with other sakura and white peach flavored drinks. (Image Source: Eat Japan ) While the actual petals haven’t quite made their debut, the anticipation of cherry blossom season is already in full swing. These sakura treats and drinks offer a taste of spring and are a perfect way to get in the hanami flower-viewing mood while we wait for the blossoms to take center stage. Until then, and hopefully throughout the season, bon appétit! References: https://www.kikkoman.com/en/cookbook/glossary/sakuramochi.html#:~:text=Sakuramochi%20is%20said%20to%20have%20become%20popular,This%20has%20led%20to%20sakuramochi%20representing%20Hinamatsuri . https://www.justonecookbook.com/hanami-dango/ https://journal.rikumo.com/journal/2019/4/24/savor-spring-how-to-make-preserved-cherry-blossom-tea https://www.eat-japan.com/news/starbucks-japan-launches-its-first-cherry-blossom-drinks-of-2026/

JITTI Journal March 2026 Back to All JITTI Journals March 2026 Feature Article Japan’s Rail Tickets and Payment System: The Latest Developments by Naoki Sato Buying a ticket (fare media) and entering through the fare gates is, quite literally, the entry point to the rail experience. In Japan, this entry point has been changing in recent years. This article provides an overview of the latest developments. A Brief Overview of How Japan’s Fare Media Has Evolved Since automatic ticket gates were introduced in the late 1960s, Japan’s fare media has evolved from paper tickets and prepaid stored-value magnetic cards to contactless transit smart cards. In Japan, these contactless transit smart cards are commonly referred to as “transportation IC cards,” such as Suica and PASMO. Alongside the evolution of fare media, coverage expanded through interoperability across different operators. Put simply, paper tickets originally had to be purchased separately for each operator. As prepaid stored-value magnetic cards became widespread and region-by-region interoperability frameworks were developed, passengers could ride across multiple operators and lines within a region. Later, transportation IC cards initially followed a similar “regional interoperability” model, but nationwide interoperability began in 2013. Today, with a single transportation IC card, passengers can generally use rail and other public transport across Japan (with some exceptions in certain areas or services). Paper tickets (Image Source: Tokyo Metro | Regular Tickets ) Prepaid magnetic stored-value cards (Image Source: https://www.tokyometro.jp/news/2014/626.html ) 　　 Contactless transportation IC cards (Image Source: https://www.jreast.co.jp/suica/ic/howtoget/ , Tokyo Metro | PASMO (IC Card) ) Latest Developments: Expansion of “Tap-to-Pay” with Credit Cards and Similar Methods Thanks to this evolution, Japan is already highly convenient from a domestic perspective: if you carry a transportation IC card, you can generally use rail and other public transport anywhere in the country. At the same time, to provide a comfortable and seamless travel experience for diverse passengers—including international visitors and those who do not use public transport frequently—railways are also developing an environment in which passengers can ride simply by using one familiar payment method, such as a credit card. In the Kanto region (Greater Tokyo Area), 11 railway operators announced that they will launch interoperability for “Tap-to-Pay” boarding using credit cards and similar payment methods starting on March 25, 2026. The key points are as follows: (1) Start date: From the first train on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 (2) Coverage: 11 operators, 54 lines, 729 stations (*Note: For some operators, not all lines and stations are included.) (3) How to use: Tap a contactless credit/debit card (or mobile wallet) on the reader at the fare gates when entering and exiting; you can pass through without purchasing a separate ticket. (4) Fare: Adult fare only (discounted fares such as child fares are generally not available). Important Notes (Especially When Traveling Outside the Eligible Coverage) One particularly important point is that if you enter using Tap-to-Pay, you generally cannot ride beyond the eligible coverage (i.e., outside the 11-operator / 54-line framework). In other words, both your origin and destination stations need to be Tap-to-Pay eligible. If you accidentally exit at a non-eligible station or travel onto a non-eligible line, you may need to settle two separate fare obligations to resolve the discrepancy. This firstly entails paying for the non-eligible segment of your journey at the exit station. Furthermore, the initial Tap-to-Pay entry record (outstanding balance for travel along the route with Tap-to-Pay coverage) must be cleared by visiting the operator’s service counter in-person at your entry station or along the route with eligible coverage. What’s more, you may be asked to make either payment in cash or by other methods (i.e., not by credit card). For these reasons, it is important to confirm in advance that your destination station is eligible. As you may have noticed from the discussion above, when using Tap-to-Pay it is important to confirm in advance that your exit station is included in the eligible area. A related point is airport access. Under the “Tap-to-Pay interoperability” framework covered in this article, not all airport access operators are included. For example, JR East and Keisei Railway are not part of this framework. Therefore, as of this writing, access to Narita Airport is generally outside the eligible area, and for Haneda Airport, certain routes may be outside the eligible area as well. Passengers should confirm eligibility for their intended route and stations in advance. One reason these constraints arise is that, in Japan’s major urban areas, multiple operators run through-services (interlining), and cross-operator travel is an everyday occurrence. Rolling out a new method such as Tap-to-Pay at a larger scale requires substantial coordination and preparation among operators, such as aligning how fares are calculated and settled (fare clearing) and the associated rules, as well as system changes and station equipment upgrades. The press release announcing the launch of interoperability for Tap-to-Pay boarding also included the following statement: “ We will continue to position transportation IC cards—already used by many customers—as the primary payment method, while responding flexibly to changing customer and societal needs…” In other words, this is not a policy of fully switching to Tap-to-Pay. Rather, transportation IC cards remain the mainstay, while Tap-to-Pay and other methods are being introduced as additional options that provide added value. Conclusion As described above, transportation IC cards in Japan have established a strong foundation. With one IC card, passengers can generally use rail and other public transport across Japan. In addition, mobile-app versions are also available, making it possible to use a smartphone without carrying a physical card. Beyond rail and bus, these cards function as e-money and can be used widely in daily life—at restaurants, convenience stores, vending machines, parking facilities, coin lockers, and more. Building on this strong base, initiatives such as interoperability for Tap-to-Pay boarding across operators are expanding, aimed at delivering a comfortable and seamless travel experience for a diverse range of users, including international visitors and infrequent riders. While some aspects may still be confusing today, Japan’s public transport systems are expected to keep evolving as operators incorporate operational experience and user feedback into ongoing improvements. References: Joint press release by the 11 operators (Launch of interoperability for Tap-to-Pay boarding using contactless credit cards and similar methods) https://www.tokyometro.jp/news/images_h/metroNews260128_g03.pdf Suica service area / coverage https://www.jreast.co.jp/suica/area/ PASMO service area / coverage (for visitors) https://www.pasmo.co.jp/visitors/en/ Tokyo Metro (Types of tickets) https://www.tokyometro.jp/en/ticket/index.html

Japan’s Rail Tickets and Payment System: The Latest Developments < Back

Japan’s Rail Tickets and Payment System: The Latest Developments Japan’s Rail Tickets and Payment System: The Latest Developments by Naoki Sato Buying a ticket (fare media) and entering through the fare gates is, quite literally, the entry point to the rail experience. In Japan, this entry point has been changing in recent years. This article provides an overview of the latest developments. A Brief Overview of How Japan’s Fare Media Has Evolved Since automatic ticket gates were introduced in the late 1960s, Japan’s fare media has evolved from paper tickets and prepaid stored-value magnetic cards to contactless transit smart cards. In Japan, these contactless transit smart cards are commonly referred to as “transportation IC cards,” such as Suica and PASMO. Alongside the evolution of fare media, coverage expanded through interoperability across different operators. Put simply, paper tickets originally had to be purchased separately for each operator. As prepaid stored-value magnetic cards became widespread and region-by-region interoperability frameworks were developed, passengers could ride across multiple operators and lines within a region. Later, transportation IC cards initially followed a similar “regional interoperability” model, but nationwide interoperability began in 2013. Today, with a single transportation IC card, passengers can generally use rail and other public transport across Japan (with some exceptions in certain areas or services). Paper tickets (Image Source: Tokyo Metro | Regular Tickets ) Prepaid magnetic stored-value cards (Image Source: https://www.tokyometro.jp/news/2014/626.html ) 　　 Contactless transportation IC cards (Image Source: https://www.jreast.co.jp/suica/ic/howtoget/ , Tokyo Metro | PASMO (IC Card) ) Latest Developments: Expansion of “Tap-to-Pay” with Credit Cards and Similar Methods Thanks to this evolution, Japan is already highly convenient from a domestic perspective: if you carry a transportation IC card, you can generally use rail and other public transport anywhere in the country. At the same time, to provide a comfortable and seamless travel experience for diverse passengers—including international visitors and those who do not use public transport frequently—railways are also developing an environment in which passengers can ride simply by using one familiar payment method, such as a credit card. In the Kanto region (Greater Tokyo Area), 11 railway operators announced that they will launch interoperability for “Tap-to-Pay” boarding using credit cards and similar payment methods starting on March 25, 2026. The key points are as follows: (1) Start date: From the first train on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 (2) Coverage: 11 operators, 54 lines, 729 stations (*Note: For some operators, not all lines and stations are included.) (3) How to use: Tap a contactless credit/debit card (or mobile wallet) on the reader at the fare gates when entering and exiting; you can pass through without purchasing a separate ticket. (4) Fare: Adult fare only (discounted fares such as child fares are generally not available). Important Notes (Especially When Traveling Outside the Eligible Coverage) One particularly important point is that if you enter using Tap-to-Pay, you generally cannot ride beyond the eligible coverage (i.e., outside the 11-operator / 54-line framework). In other words, both your origin and destination stations need to be Tap-to-Pay eligible. If you accidentally exit at a non-eligible station or travel onto a non-eligible line, you may need to settle two separate fare obligations to resolve the discrepancy. This firstly entails paying for the non-eligible segment of your journey at the exit station. Furthermore, the initial Tap-to-Pay entry record (outstanding balance for travel along the route with Tap-to-Pay coverage) must be cleared by visiting the operator’s service counter in-person at your entry station or along the route with eligible coverage. What’s more, you may be asked to make either payment in cash or by other methods (i.e., not by credit card). For these reasons, it is important to confirm in advance that your destination station is eligible. As you may have noticed from the discussion above, when using Tap-to-Pay it is important to confirm in advance that your exit station is included in the eligible area. A related point is airport access. Under the “Tap-to-Pay interoperability” framework covered in this article, not all airport access operators are included. For example, JR East and Keisei Railway are not part of this framework. Therefore, as of this writing, access to Narita Airport is generally outside the eligible area, and for Haneda Airport, certain routes may be outside the eligible area as well. Passengers should confirm eligibility for their intended route and stations in advance. One reason these constraints arise is that, in Japan’s major urban areas, multiple operators run through-services (interlining), and cross-operator travel is an everyday occurrence. Rolling out a new method such as Tap-to-Pay at a larger scale requires substantial coordination and preparation among operators, such as aligning how fares are calculated and settled (fare clearing) and the associated rules, as well as system changes and station equipment upgrades. The press release announcing the launch of interoperability for Tap-to-Pay boarding also included the following statement: “ We will continue to position transportation IC cards—already used by many customers—as the primary payment method, while responding flexibly to changing customer and societal needs…” In other words, this is not a policy of fully switching to Tap-to-Pay. Rather, transportation IC cards remain the mainstay, while Tap-to-Pay and other methods are being introduced as additional options that provide added value. Conclusion As described above, transportation IC cards in Japan have established a strong foundation. With one IC card, passengers can generally use rail and other public transport across Japan. In addition, mobile-app versions are also available, making it possible to use a smartphone without carrying a physical card. Beyond rail and bus, these cards function as e-money and can be used widely in daily life—at restaurants, convenience stores, vending machines, parking facilities, coin lockers, and more. Building on this strong base, initiatives such as interoperability for Tap-to-Pay boarding across operators are expanding, aimed at delivering a comfortable and seamless travel experience for a diverse range of users, including international visitors and infrequent riders. While some aspects may still be confusing today, Japan’s public transport systems are expected to keep evolving as operators incorporate operational experience and user feedback into ongoing improvements. References: Joint press release by the 11 operators (Launch of interoperability for Tap-to-Pay boarding using contactless credit cards and similar methods) https://www.tokyometro.jp/news/images_h/metroNews260128_g03.pdf Suica service area / coverage https://www.jreast.co.jp/suica/area/ PASMO service area / coverage (for visitors) https://www.pasmo.co.jp/visitors/en/ Tokyo Metro (Types of tickets) https://www.tokyometro.jp/en/ticket/index.html Back to All JITTI Journals March 2026 Feature Article

In April 2021, after much discussion and consideration, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency's proposal of unmanned aircraft regulations was finally adopted. In this report, JITTI USA Senior Fellow, Yoshihiro Fujimaki, fully describes the details of these regulations. < Back Civil Aviation Publication of Traffic Management Regulations of Unmanned Aircraft Systems in Europe By Yoshihiro Fujimaki In April 2021, after much discussion and consideration, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency's proposal of unmanned aircraft regulations was finally adopted. In this report, JITTI USA Senior Fellow, Yoshihiro Fujimaki, fully describes the details of these regulations. Download the Report

The emergence and spread of the novel coronavirus has greatly affected airports globally. Aviation Analyst, Daisuke Takagi, presents the changes that the disease has caused on airport operations, and the varied responses by airports and the countries they are located in. < Back Civil Aviation The Impact of the Spread of COVID-19 on Airports across the World By Daisuke Takagi The emergence and spread of the novel coronavirus has greatly affected airports globally. Aviation Analyst, Daisuke Takagi, presents the changes that the disease has caused on airport operations, and the varied responses by airports and the countries they are located in. Download the Report

High Speed Rail Seminar in Chicago June 28, 2010 Union League Club of Chicago 65 West Jackson Boulevard, Chicago, IL Presented by: Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), Japan Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), Japan Institution for Transport Policy Studies (ITPS), Japan Japan International Transport Institute (JITI) Council for Global Promotion of Railway, Japan Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Seminar Program Agenda Seminar Overview In January 2010, President Obama announced an allocation of $8 billion granted as federal funds to help turn the U.S. vision of high speed rail (HSR) into reality. The distributed funds will be used for the development of HSR which has proven to be an effective, energy-efficient way to move large numbers of people quickly over long distances. The goal of this seminar in Chicago is to demonstrate Japan’s 45 years of experience in HSR operation and contribute toward developing HSR network projects in the Midwest region as well as other regions in the U.S. In this half day seminar, leaders in the Japanese transportation field will introduce technology and operational experience about HSR. Topics also include a finance scheme for introducing HSR systems to the U.S. as well as economic benefits derived from HSR, such as job creation and regional development. Opening Remarks Seiji Maehara Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Bio Presentation Ichiro Fujisaki Ambassador of Japan to the United States Bio Satoshi Seino President and CEO, East Japan Railway Company, Deputy Chairman, Council for Global Promotion of Railway Bio Jiro Hanyu Chairman, ITPS Bio Keynote Speeches Governor Patrick Joseph “Pat” Quinn III State of Illinois (Secretary Gary Hannig, Illinois DOT, representing Governor Quinn) Mayor Richard M. Daley City of Chicago (Commissioner Bobby L. Ware, CDOT, representing Mayor Daley) Bio U.S. Congressman Daniel Lipinski Illinois 3rd District Bio State Representative Elaine Nekritz Illinois 57th District Bio Richard Harnish Executive Director, Midwest High Speed Rail Association Bio Presentations Yuki Tanaka Director, International Affairs Office, JITI Bio Presentation Satoshi Seino President and CEO, East Japan Railway Company Presentation Hiromasa Tanaka Senior Advisor, Central Japan Railway Company Bio Presentation Maurice Andriani Senior Manager, Aftermarket and Special Projects, Kawasaki Rail Car, Inc Bio Presentation Yasuhiko Mochizuki President, Nippon Sharyo U.S.A., Inc. Bio Presentation Robert E. Galbraith, II Director, Marketing, Transportation Systems Division, Mitsubishi Electric Power Products, Inc. Bio Presentation Kyle D. Kem Vice President, Toshiba International Corporation Bio Presentation Closing Remarks Makoto Washizu President, JITI Bio Exhibition Panel displays & DVD presentations on Japanese HSR [Railway Operators] East Japan Railway Company Central Japan Railway Company [Manufacturers] Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. Nippon Sharyo, Ltd. /Sumitomo Corporation Mitsubishi Electric Corporation Toshiba Corporation Fuji Electric Systems Co., Ltd. Hitachi, Ltd. KYB Corporation Nabtesco Corporation NTN Corporation Sumitomo Metals

This second report in a series on emerging Smart City trends in the West highlights the Hammarby Sjöstad district in Stockholm, Sweden as a case study for exemplary TOD. Read about how their TOD projects have attracted MaaS and helped achieve their environmental goals in urban development. < Back Surface Transportation Survey of Smart City Trends in the West: Transit-oriented Development and Mobility-as-a-Service Part 2: Case Study 1- Stockholm, Sweden By Akito Okabe This second report in a series on emerging Smart City trends in the West highlights the Hammarby Sjöstad district in Stockholm, Sweden as a case study for exemplary TOD. Read about how their TOD projects have attracted MaaS and helped achieve their environmental goals in urban development. Download the Report

Amendment of Japan’s Civil Aeronautics Act in Response to the Haneda Airport Runway Collision Amendment of Japan’s Civil Aeronautics Act in Response to the Haneda Airport Runway Collision by Shinichiro Tsuri 1. Background On May 30, 2025, the Japanese Diet passed a bill to partially amend the Civil Aeronautics Act and other related acts, and the revised Civil Aeronautics Act was promulgated on June 6, 2025. One of the key pillars of the amendments is ensuring aviation safety incorporating lessons learned from the tragic accident at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) on January 2, 2024, which involved a fatal runway collision between a Bombardier DHC-8-315 operated by the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) and an Airbus A350-941 operated by Japan Airlines (JAL). While the root causes of the accident remain under investigation by the Japan Transport Safety Board (JTSB), the amendments were proposed in line with the recommendations outlined in the interim report released in June 2024 by the Haneda Airport Aircraft Collision Prevention Measures Review Committee, established by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) following the accident. This article provides an overview of this legal amendment prompted by the incident. JCG’s Aircraft after the Accident (Image Source: JTSB’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Interim Report ) JAL’s Aircraft after the Accident (Image Source: JTSB’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Interim Report ) 2. Overview of the Amendments for Aviation Safety Enhancing Runway Safety Measures at Airports One aspect of the amendments to the Civil Aeronautics Act for aviation safety is enhancement of runway safety. Article 47 was revised to add “measures related preventing runway incursion” to items to be specified in the standards securing the function of aerodrome or air navigation facilities, which their providers must follow. Examples of such measures include the following items, which were mentioned in the recommendations by the Haneda Airport Aircraft Collision Prevention Measures Review Committee. Establish Runway Safety Teams (which consist of aerodrome operators, ATC provider, aircraft operators, ground handling operators) at major airports (New Chitose, Narita, Haneda, Chubu, Osaka, Kansai, Fukuoka and Naha Airports) Ensure proper operation of RunWay Status Lights (RWSL) and other facilities Install location information transmitters on vehicles entering runways Strengthen the safety supervision system for ground handling (aircraft towing/pushback, cargo loading/unloading, refueling, ramp bus and other auxiliary services) operators Function of RWSL (warning aircraft waiting on taxiways of other aircraft taking off or landing) (Image Source: Summary Document of Amendment of the Civil Aeronautics Act ) Mandatory CRM (Crew Resource Management) Training for Pilots Another aspect of the amendments for aviation safety is mandating CRM training for pilots. According to ICAO Circular 217 “Human Factors Digest No. 2 - Flight Crew Training: Cockpit Resource Management (CRM) and Line-Oriented Flight Training (LOFT),” CRM is defined as “the effective use of all available resources, i.e. equipment, procedures and people, to achieve safe and efficient flight operations.” CRM training focuses on skills such as communication/interpersonal skills, situation awareness, problem-solving/decision-making/judgement, leadership/“followership,” stress management and critique. While CRM training had been already mandatory for pilots of air carriers operating airplanes requiring two or more flight crews, the Haneda Airport Aircraft Collision Prevention Measures Review Committee recommended extending CRM training to all pilots, including private pilots, in order to prevent human errors in air traffic control communication. Example Situation of CRM (Image Source: Summary Document of Amendment of the Civil Aeronautics Act ) In accordance with the above recommendation, Article 71-5 was newly added to mandate that all pilots who take off or land at airports in air traffic control zones complete CRM training conducted by a registered training organization. A training organization can be registered by the MLIT when its facilities, equipment, training materials and instructors are found to comply with prescribed requirements. For example, the organization must provide training materials that include scripted scenarios modeled on past incidents such as runway incursions, in which trainees assume the role of the pilot to acquire management skills. The registered training organization must issue a certificate of completion to pilots who have completed their training course, and based on newly added Article 71-6, they must carry this certificate when taking off or landing at airports in air traffic control zones, except as otherwise provided. Article 71-5 and 71-6 will become applicable within three years after promulgation. 3. Conclusion While the 2025 amendment to Civil Aeronautics Act is a cornerstone for enhancing aviation safety, it will also be essential to establish subordinate legislation and to ensure effective implementation within the legal framework. I hope that the entire aviation industry will fully learn from the lessons of the accident at Haneda Airport and work actively to further improve safety. References JTSB, (Aircraft Accident Investigation Interim Report) Japan Coast Guard Bombardier DHC-8-315, JA722A and Japan Airlines Co., Ltd Airbus A350-941, JA13XJ https://jtsb.mlit.go.jp/eng-air_report/interim20241225-JA722A_JA13XJ.pdf MLIT, Haneda Airport Aircraft Collision Prevention Measures Review Committee https://www.mlit.go.jp/koku/koku_tk13_000045.html MLIT, Cabinet Decision of the “The Bill to Partially Amend the Civil Aeronautics Act and Other Related Acts” ~ Ensuring Aviation Safety and Promoting the Early Restoration of Disaster-Affected Airports ~ https://www.mlit.go.jp/report/press/kouku01_hh_000134.html Japanese Law Translation, The Bill to Partially Amend the Civil Aeronautics Act and Other Related Acts https://www.japaneselawtranslation.go.jp/outline/160/905R719.pdf Cabinet Office, Act to Partially Amend the Civil Aeronautics Act and Other Related Acts https://www.kanpo.go.jp/20250606/20250606g00125/20250606g001250009f.html Back to All JITTI Journals July 2025 Feature Article