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  • Financing Development of Public Transport-oriented Urban Growth and Subway Infrastructure at New York City’s Hudson Yard through Profit Gained from the Development Itself (Part 3)

    The redevelopment project for Hudson Yard is the largest in New York City history, and consequently comes with unique financial challenges and ingenuity. Part 3 of this series investigates bonds, loans, and the current status of finances and financial relationships in the Hudson Yards Project. < Back Surface Transportation Financing Development of Public Transport-oriented Urban Growth and Subway Infrastructure at New York City’s Hudson Yard through Profit Gained from the Development Itself (Part 3) By Tomomi Tsuchiya & Daisuke Miyamoto The redevelopment project for Hudson Yard is the largest in New York City history, and consequently comes with unique financial challenges and ingenuity. Part 3 of this series investigates bonds, loans, and the current status of finances and financial relationships in the Hudson Yards Project. Download the Report

  • November 2024

    Tokyo Metro's Stock Listing and the History of Tokyo's Subway Tokyo Metro's Stock Listing and the History of Tokyo's Subway By Naoki Sato On October 23, 2024, Tokyo Metro, a railway (subway) operator in Japan, was listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Previously, Tokyo Metro's shares were entirely owned by the Japanese government and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. However, with this listing, 50% of these shares were sold. As of the date of its listing, this was the largest Initial Public Offering (IPO) on the Tokyo Stock Exchange in 2024, attracting significant attention. In this article, I would like to briefly review the history of the Tokyo’s subway system and describe how Tokyo Metro was listed. In addition, I would like to inform you in advance that this article was written based on the author's research and from the standpoint of a researcher at the Japan International Transport and Tourism Institute, USA. Overview of Tokyo’s Subway System Today There are 13 subway lines in Tokyo, mainly in the wards of Tokyo, but they are operated by two railway (subway) operators, "Tokyo Metro" and "Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation (TOEI)". To briefly explain, Tokyo Metro has a network of 180 stations with 9 lines of 195.0 km(121.1miles), of which 7 lines operate directly through each other with other railway companies, covering a distance of 556.6 km (345.8miles) of commercial lines, including mutual direct service destinations. In fiscal 2023, Tokyo Metro carried an average of approximately 6.52 million passengers per day. TOEI, meanwhile, has a network of 106 stations with 4 lines of 109.0 km(67.7miles), three of which operate directly through each other with other railway companies, covering a distance of 363.3 km(225.7miles) of commercial lines, including mutual direct service destinations. In fiscal 2022, TOEI carried an average of approximately 2.24 million passengers per day. (*As far as the author has been able to ascertain, the most recent fiscal year for TOEI figures was FY2022.) Tokyo Subway Route Map (by Tokyo Metro | Subway Map ) The beginning of Tokyo’s subway The history of Tokyo’s subway system began in 1927 with the opening of Japan’s first subway line, the Ginza Line, which initially operated between Asakusa Station and Ueno Station. The organization responsible for this construction was the predecessor of Tokyo Metro, a company established with private capital. In other words, the first steps in development of Tokyo’s subway system were initiated by a private company. The construction of a subway system by the private sector alone became difficult due to the recession and other factors, and in 1941 the Teito Rapid Transit Authority was established as a joint public-private investment organization under a law promulgated and enforced in 1938. The purpose of the Teito Rapid Transit Authority was to construct and operate the Tokyo subway system in a unified manner. View of the ticket gate at the opening of the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line (by Metro Cultural Foundation ) Participation in the construction of the Tokyo’s subway by TOEI Although the Teito Rapid Transit Authority started as a public-private venture, private capital was excluded in 1951 in favor of government funding, transforming the organization into one owned by only the national government and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. At that time, Japan was experiencing economic growth and population concentration in cities, and there was an urgent need to improve the subway network. Teito Rapid Transit Authority had started construction work on the Marunouchi Line, but in order to cope with the increase in users, it was decided that the Tokyo Metropolitan Government would construct a subway as well. This was the beginning of the TOEI. Then, in 1959, the Marunouchi Line (now operated by Tokyo Metro) was fully opened, and in 1960, the Asakusa Line (operated by TOEI) began service, initially between Oshiage Station and Asakusabashi Station. This marked the start of Tokyo’s subway construction being advanced by two different operators. Furthermore, when the Asakusa Line opened, it became the first Tokyo subway line to engage in through-service operations with a private railway, Keisei Electric Railway. Ceremonial scene at the opening of the TOEI Asakusa Line (by TOEI TRANSPORTATION ) Privatization of From Teito Rapid Transit Authority to Tokyo Metro and the Discussion on Unification Tokyo Metro and TOEI Subway construction continued over the years, and by 2004, when the construction of the subway was largely completed, the Teito Rapid Transit Authority was privatized (incorporated into a corporation), becoming Tokyo Metro Co., Ltd. Even after privatization, shares were held by the national government and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, but the law called for the prompt sale of shares, that is, complete privatization. However, there were calls from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to discuss the unification of Tokyo’s subway operators, taking into account the historical context and convenience for passengers. In 2010, a council was established, composed from members of the national government, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, and Tokyo Metro, to discuss unification. Thus, discussions on the timing of the stock listing proved difficult. Amid these debates, a law was passed in 2011 stipulating that the proceeds from the sale of the national government’s Tokyo Metro shares would be allocated to the reconstruction fund for the Great East Japan Earthquake. The Stock Listing and the Expansion of the Yurakucho Line There is no doubt that the law for reconstruction after the Great East Japan Earthquake has encouraged the listing, but I believe that there are other factors that have led to its occurrence at this time, with one of these being the expansion of the Yurakucho Line. One of the key reasons for the privatization of the Teito Rapid Transit Authority was that most new subway construction had been completed, and the focus had shifted primarily to operations. In other words, after the transition to Tokyo Metro, no new large-scale subway line construction was planned. However, due to strong local demands, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government sought to push forward with the expansion of the Yurakucho Line. Simply put, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government had two desires: to unify subway operators and to extend the Yurakucho Line. In this context, the national government presented a recommendation in 2021, stating that it would be appropriate for Tokyo Metro to be the primary entity responsible for extending the subway system while the national government and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government would retain half of Tokyo Metro’s shares for the time being. In response, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government decided to proceed with the sale of its Tokyo Metro shares, which had been delayed due to discussions about unification, and also to advance the expansion of the Yurakucho Line. At last With Tokyo Metro’s stock listing, the company will undoubtedly attract more attention than ever before. This means that Tokyo Metro will need to be more conscious of its stock price and consider the voices of new shareholders in its management decisions. However, the fundamental role that Tokyo Metro and the TOEI play as subway operators in Tokyo is unlikely to change. Moving forward, I hope that both operators will continue to achieve high customer satisfaction and persist in developing a sustainable subway system that Tokyo (and Japan) can proudly present to the world. Reference Tokyo Metro https://www.tokyometro.jp/corporate/enterprise/passenger_rail/transportation/lines/index.html Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation https://www.kotsu.metro.tokyo.jp/about/service/subway.html Tokyo Subway Corporation Act https://laws.e-gov.go.jp/law/414AC0000000188 Recommendation of the Council for Transport Policy https://www.mlit.go.jp/policy/shingikai/content/001414998.pdf Back to All JITTI Journals November 2024 Feature Article

  • 2019 EASA-FAA International Safety Conference

    Deputy and JCAB Representative, Shinichi Yamada, reviews the mission of and findings from the 2019 EASA-FAA International Safety Conference. < Back Civil Aviation 2019 EASA-FAA International Safety Conference By Shinichi Yamada Deputy and JCAB Representative, Shinichi Yamada, reviews the mission of and findings from the 2019 EASA-FAA International Safety Conference. Download the Report

  • July 2024

    Rulemaking Activities for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) in Japan < Back

  • Toward the Spread and Expansion of Sports Culture Tourism

    JITTI Journal March 2024 Back to All JITTI Journals March 2024 Feature Article Toward the Spread and Expansion of Sports Culture Tourism By Hirokazu Nishikawa While there are various forms of tourism around the world, there is a movement to promote and expand "sports culture tourism" in Japan as well. Sports culture tourism refers to the establishment and dissemination of new regional and Japanese brands by linking local sporting events with cultural and artistic resources, with the aim of increasing the number of foreign visitors to Japan, revitalizing domestic tourism, and revitalizing the Japanese and regional economies. The "Comprehensive Collaborative Agreement among the Japan Sports Agency, Agency for Cultural Affairs, and Japan Tourism Agency" was signed in March 2016 between the three government agencies listed, and they have been holding the "Sports Culture Tourism Awards" every year since then. The Sports Culture Tourism Awards publicly solicits, selects, and presents awards to initiatives and events that contribute to the promotion of sports culture tourism. For the 8th award, Sports Culture Tourism Award 2023, seven award-winning organizations were selected from among 29 initiatives and events that were submitted from August to September 2023 (announced in the press on January 11, 2024). In this issue, I would like to introduce the initiatives of these award-winning organizations. Main Awards (Applicant Organization) Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture “Sports Culture Tourism Centered on Imabari Castle, the Strongest Castle in Japan - The History of the Seto Inland Sea Central Region's Domination Leads to the Present Day” Outline of the Project The “Imabari Castle” in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture, is the center of a series of events held in the Seto Inland Sea in Japanese fiscal year (※) 2022. The cultural event Takatora Summit in Imabari was held, and sports events such as Setouchi Shimanami Kaido Three-Day March, Imabari Criterium (a mass-start road-cycle race), Cycling Shimanami 2022, and Imabari City Marathon took place, attracting many people from Japan and abroad. In addition, Setouchi Minato Marché, a food and specialty event, was organized to encourage event visitors and tourists to stay in the city. (※) Japanese fiscal year runs from April to March (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation The Marché event has done a good job of involving the local community through the use of citizen volunteers, etc. Each event is attractive, and cultural and natural resources such as Imabari Castle, Murakami Suigun, and the Shimanami Sea Route are utilized to hold cultural and sporting events that appeal to a wide range of people. Various efforts are being made to disseminate information overseas through PR on airline flights, production of TV dramas, and cooperation with bicycle manufacturers. (Applicant Organization) Echigo Matsudai Trail Running Executive Committee “[We plan to] revitalize old paths scattered throughout the satoyama (mountainous regions within village-vicinities) and to make them available as new regional resources! “Echigo Matsudai Spring Festival Trail Running Race" " Outline of the project A trail running event held in Matsudai, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture. Old roads that are no longer used and in disrepair were re-excavated and prepared for the course, which included a course through a satoyama village. The event was created to allow participants to experience the original landscape of Japan. By linking the event with the Echigo-Tsumari Art Field, it will have the unique feature of "combining art and trail running," and its objectives are to revitalize local communities, preserve the satoyama environment, and advocate climate change action for athletes. (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation The potential tourism resource of old roads in satoyama is well utilized. The project involves the local community and attracts inbound visitors. This is a very effective opportunity to highlight permanent artwork. (Applicant Organization) Annaka City Tourism Organization, General Incorporated Association “ A Railway’s Dead End, Dead No Longer: Revitalization efforts for the benefit of future generations ” Outline of Initiatives Since 2018, a walking tour has operated using an abandoned railway line in Annaka City, Gunma Prefecture, utilizing the Yokogawa-Karuizawa section of the Shinetsu Main Line (commonly known as the Usui Line), which was last operated in 1997. The event is an 11-km guided walk along the normally off-limits section of the line to experience its historical value and the difficulty of crossing the mountain pass. More than 90% of the participants are from outside of the prefecture, making this event a draw that will encourage other local travel and spending. (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation The use of a disused railroad line makes it feel special, and the fact that it has a solid historical background and a story to tell is highly valuable. The fact that the target audience is not only people who like traveling and hiking, but also people who like railroads and civil engineering structures is new. The fact that the majority of participants are from outside of the prefecture is also very tourism-oriented. By becoming a model case for the utilization of abandoned railway lines, of which there are likely to be many throughout Japan, it is hoped that other derivative models can be created. Special Awards *Two applicable cases ① (Applicant Organization) Nara City General Foundation, General Incorporated Foundation “Enjoy authentic Japanese archery for foreign tourists - Experience the spirit of the samurai in Nara, the ancient capital of Japan ” Outline of the Project This is a project to allow foreign tourists to experience authentic Japanese archery derived from the tradition of Bushido in Nara, the hometown of the samurai. They will learn the basics of Kyudo and how to behave under the gentle and strict one-on-one guidance of a high-ranked instructor, and finally shoot an arrow by themselves. The goal is to promote the image of "Budo" = "Nara" and "Budo" = "Nara's new brand" internationally, which will lead to budo tourism from overseas. (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation The value of this event will be enhanced for the local community with its history and background. The opportunity to experience authentic martial arts by wearing hakama in a real dojo is a good opportunity for visitors to understand the beauty and dignity of the Japanese people. It is a good opportunity for visitors to learn more about Nara by learning about cultural elements. ② (Applicant Organization) Fukushima Town Tourism Association “Fukushima Town, Hokkaido: "Sumo Tournament for Women Only" - the only town in Japan to have two yokozuna (sumo grand champions)” Outline of the Project The "Sumo Tournament for Women Only" has been held in Fukushima-cho, Hokkaido since 1991. It began as a project to celebrate the 500th anniversary of Kawasuso Shrine's founding and to dedicate the "women-only festival procession," and has been held every year on the second Sunday of May (Mother's Day), with the 29th held in 2023. By holding sumo, which is recognized as a national sport, as an event targeting women, they aim to broaden its base and provide a good opportunity for the children who support it to think about "women's activities" and "gender equality.” (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation This event is attended by people from overseas and outside the region. This event has been carried out for about 30 years, and it is highly valued as a part of the local sumo culture. The program has been carried out continuously with a cultural and historical background, while also taking into account the viewpoint of women's activities. (Applicant Organization) Tourism Promotion Bureau of Shimosuwa Town Regional Development Corporation, General Incorporated Association “National Historic Site and Japanese Heritage: The Jomon World of the Starry Central Highlands: Making the "Hoshigatou Obsidian Origin Site" a Tourism Resource” Outline of the Project The Hoshigatoh Obsidian Site in Shimosuwa Town, Nagano Prefecture, was recognized as a National Historic Site in 2015 and a Japan Heritage Site in 2018. The Hoshigatoh Ruins, which are normally off-limits to visitors, will be offered as a special tour with commentary by the discoverer/excavator. In addition, they are taking a multifaceted approach by collaborating with cultural resources and museum facilities scattered in the surrounding area. By actively utilizing cultural assets while properly managing them, the project aims to create a virtuous cycle of culture, tourism, and regional revitalization. (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation The content is a combination of Japanese heritage sites and surrounding culture, and the presence of a variety of guides adds value. The program is designed to involve local businesses, is also designed to encourage participants to become repeat visitors, and to create fans of the local community. The project is contributing to the expansion of recognition of Japanese heritage sites themselves. (Applicant Organization) Office of the Tan-Tetsu-ko Promotion Council “"Tan-Tetsu-Ko Meshi (Tan-Tetsu-ko Meal) Project," a culinary tour of a Japanese heritage site Outline of the Project The story of the coal and other industrial revolutions "Coal, Iron, and Port (Tan-tetsu-ko)" in Sorachi, Hokkaido, which supported Japan's growth and recovery from the Meiji era through the prewar, wartime, and postwar periods, has been recognized as a Japan Heritage site. This initiative named the food that took root in the lives of people who worked in coal mines, steel mills, ports, and railway-related facilities "Tan-tetsu-ko Meshi (Coal, Iron, and Port Meal)”, and in FY2021, commercialized the food at a major convenience store chain and installed panels at tourist information centers. In FY2022, they produced a guidebook listing the restaurants where Tan-tetsu-ko meshi was actually available and conducted an online stamp rally. (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation The program focuses on food that can be tasted in the region and makes full use of the Japanese heritage story. The collaboration with a major convenience store chain is interesting because of its novelty. The program is collaborating with a number of businesses in the region, and is working on a wide-area partnership within a 100-kilometer radius. These award-winning organizations were honored at a related event, the 7th Sports Culture Tourism Symposium, held in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo on February 2, 2024. The Japanese government is committed to regional revitalization, which aims to correct the concentration of people in Tokyo, halt the population decline in rural areas, and increase the vitality of Japan as a whole. I believe that the revitalization of these regions through tourism will have a significant effect as a first step toward this goal. 【References】 「スポーツ文化ツーリズムアワード 2023 」の受賞団体を発表します ~スポーツ文化ツーリズムの普及、拡大に向けて~ | 2024 年 | 報道発表 | 報道・会見 | 観光庁 ( mlit.go.jp )

  • November 2022

    Japan's Resumption of Accepting Foreigners as a Sign of Recovery from the COVID Pandemic < Back

  • Historical Background of the Delegation System for Aircraft Certification in the U.S. and its Status after Boeing 737 MAX Accidents

    Boeing's 737 MAX aircraft made headlines in 2018 and 2019 when back-to-back fatal accidents shocked the aviation community. In this report, Aviation Analyst Yoshihiro Fujimaki examines the delegation system for aircraft certification, which had recently changed prior to these accidents, and who some speculate may have played a part in these unfortunate events. < Back Civil Aviation Historical Background of the Delegation System for Aircraft Certification in the U.S. and its Status after Boeing 737 MAX Accidents By Yoshihiro Fujimaki Boeing's 737 MAX aircraft made headlines in 2018 and 2019 when back-to-back fatal accidents shocked the aviation community. In this report, Aviation Analyst Yoshihiro Fujimaki examines the delegation system for aircraft certification, which had recently changed prior to these accidents, and who some speculate may have played a part in these unfortunate events. Download the Report

  • USCGA Commencement | JITTI USA

    United States Coast Guard Academy Commencement: A New Era of Leaders in Maritime Security By Daisuke Komatsu On May 22, 2024, under a cloudless sky in New London, Connecticut, the 143rd Commencement Ceremony of the United States Coast Guard Academy took place. The atmosphere was solemn yet filled with joy and smiles. I had the honor of attending this ceremony as the first representative from the Japan Coast Guard, along with CDR Toru Chochi, the First Secretary of the Japanese Embassy in the US. The event marked the beginning of a new chapter for the young officers, who will play a crucial role in the future of maritime security in the United States. Among the attendees were Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas of the Department of Homeland Security and Admiral Linda L. Fagan of the Coast Guard, alongside numerous senior officials who gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of 225 graduates and wish them well as they navigate the turbulent waters of maritime security. Graduation ceremony held under a cloudless sky (Photo by the author) The class of 225 cadets entered the academy in 2020, during the onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic. They endured the rigorous Swab Summer training under highly unusual and stringent conditions. Despite numerous preventive measures and the need for social distancing, they forged bonds with their classmates through masks, cultivated a sense of unity, and developed leadership skills. Witnessing their journey from these challenging beginnings to graduation was profoundly moving for me as a coast guard officer. Madison Nicole Garrigus, a female student majoring in Marine and Environmental Science, served as the Cadet First Class (class valedictorian). Reflecting on the 200 weeks of cadet life amid the pandemic, she emphasized the class motto, "Fortiores Una" (Stronger Together), which encapsulated their collective resilience. Garrigus also quoted Jim Henson, creator and voice of Kermit the Frog from Sesame Street: "When you start on your journey, remember this: there are never enough comfortable places to rest along the way. The place you’re heading for isn’t on any map. So forget the map, roll down the windows, and enjoy the picnic." She highlighted the importance of sometimes setting aside plans and enjoying the moment, recognizing that life’s journey does not always follow a predetermined path. Her speech resonated deeply with all present, celebrating the dedication and efforts of her classmates. Cadet First Class Madison Nicole Garrigus (Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Matthew Thieme ) The ceremony also included international cadets from the Philippines, Guyana, the Dominican Republic, Honduras, and Jordan, who are set to join their respective maritime security agencies as junior officers upon returning home. Ambassadors and defense attachés from these nations were present to congratulate the cadets, who proudly displayed their national flags when introduced during the "Welcome and Acknowledgement of International Cadets" segment, underscoring the event’s international camaraderie. The Japan Coast Guard and the United States Coast Guard are strengthening their efforts to deepen academic exchange. On April 21, 2023, the superintendents of both academies signed and exchanged a cooperation document. Based on this document, the Japan Coast Guard Academy dispatched two trainees from its International Affairs Course to the United States Coast Guard Academy from mid-January to late February this year. Additionally, as of the time of writing, postgraduates from the Japan Coast Guard Academy are on an ocean voyage in the Pacific aboard the training ship "Kojima," with scheduled port calls in San Francisco, Honolulu, Guam, Koror, and Singapore. On May 13, three third-year (2/C) cadets from the United States Coast Guard Academy boarded the "Kojima" in San Francisco. They will participate in training alongside the postgraduates until the ship's scheduled arrival in Guam on June 8, further strengthening the relationship between the two academies. During this period, on May 28, a joint exercise was conducted off the coast of Honolulu involving the training ship "Kojima," U.S. Coast Guard cutters, and aircraft. Three United States Coast Guard Academy Cadets Boarding the Training Ship "Kojima" in San Francisco (Courtesy of the Japan Coast Guard) My attendance, along with First Secretary CDR Chochi, at the United States Coast Guard Academy Commencement was part of these efforts to strengthen our relationship. During the receptions held before and after the ceremony, we exchanged views on further enhancing our relationship with key personnel, including RADM Johnstone, Superintendent; Dr. Zuczek, Head of the Political Science Department; and CDR Pecora, Chief of International Affairs. Strengthening ties between our educational institutions will significantly contribute to developing the next generation of leaders, advancing research and education in maritime security, and improving maritime safety in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. Graduates tossing their caps into the air (Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Taylor Bacon )

  • MaaS in Urban Tokyo by Daisuke Miyamoto

    JITTI Journal July 2020 Back to All JITTI Journals July 2020 Feature Article MaaS in Urban Tokyo by Daisuke Miyamoto 1. What is MaaS? (1) "Mobility as a Service (MaaS) is the integration of various forms of transport services into a single mobility service accessible on demand. To meet a customer’s request, a MaaS operator facilitates a diverse menu of transport options, be they public transport, ride-, car- or bike-sharing, taxi or car rental/lease, or a combination thereof. For the user, MaaS can offer added value through use of a single application to provide access to mobility , with a single payment channel instead of multiple ticketing and payment operations. For its users, MaaS should be the best value proposition , by helping them meet their mobility needs and solve the inconvenient parts of individual journeys as well as the entire system of mobility services.” 2. What has the concept of MaaS done?  While the MaaS concept has affected every transportation industry throughout the world, at the same time, Daimler, who is the one of car leading companies in the world, revealed their “CASE” concept at the 2016 Paris Motor Show. CASE stands for the fields of networking (Connected), autonomous driving (Autonomous), flexible use (Shared & Services) and electric drive systems (Electric) (2) , and will impact the car industry as well. It is said that both innovations will cause a great mobility revolution that is only seen once every 100 years since cars were first developed. Because both concepts help reduce the ownership of cars, curtail carbon dioxide emissions, encourage the use of public transportation and minimize congestion, many countries and companies have been studying MaaS and CASE in order to enlist these concepts. 3. MaaS in Japan (3) The Japanese government has studied MaaS as well to ride the wave of its increasing popularity, and found that when MaaS is simulated in their future investment strategies, it helps the surrounding communities to achieve a high quality of life and mobilizes society by driving up the potential demand for going out. However, because there are many types of cities in Japan, and each one has several types of transportation options, it has been difficult to directly apply a single concept to every city. They have had to consider and develop a way for MaaS to be suitable for Japan, or one might say that they created a Japanese MaaS. Finally, the Japanese government has found that there are 5 suitable types of MaaS in Japan, as follows: a. Metropolis b. Suburb c. Regional city d. Rural area e. Tourism These MaaS types have different goals, but the Japanese government believes that MaaS will be one of the better solutions for an aging society and expanding urbanization. 4. One MaaS Case Study in Tokyo Tokyo Metro, one of the leading subway operators in the world, has recently launched their MaaS project (4) . They called their Metropolis MaaS project “My! Tokyo MaaS." Tokyo Metro has 179 stations, 7.55 million passengers, and a 195.0 km rail network in Tokyo, so they have earned the position to be able to develop a Metropolis type of MaaS. They emphasize 3 concepts in order to add value to their rail network and service, as follows: a. Personalized trip planning and added value Passengers can get easier access to information for their destination, like routes to elevators in stations and paths to take to avoid getting wet when it’s raining. b. Real-time train operation information Passengers can, of course, get real-time transit operation information and train location information, but can also moreover get suggestions of detours in the case of an accident. c. A more precise network Tokyo Metro will work together with other mobility operators to enable passengers to easily access various mobility modes. I believe that this project will assist not only commuters around urban Tokyo, but also foreign visitors. We are in severe times with COVID-19, but I believe that we can overcome it and enjoy travel again someday, of course with “My! Tokyo MaaS.” Fig. Concept image of my! Tokyo MaaS References: https://maas-alliance.eu/homepage/what-is-maas/ https://media.daimler.com/marsMediaSite/en/instance/ko/CASE-Networked-strategy.xhtml?oid=29182599#:~:text=CASE%20%E2%80%93%20these%20letters%20are%20shaping,corporate%20strategy%20of%20Daimler%20AG . https://www.mlit.go.jp/common/001287842.pdf https://www.tokyometro.jp/news/images_h/metroNews20200325_34.pdf

  • Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan

    JITTI Journal January 2025 Back to All JITTI Journals January 2025 Feature Article Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan by Shinichiro Tsuri Background 2025 is a year with a big event, Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, which will be held for 184 days from April 13th to October 13th, 2025 in Yumeshima, Osaka. Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), which is the next-generation of air mobility expected to operate in the near future, is one of the hot topics of the expo, as a part of the Smart Mobility Expo in the Future Society Showcase Project Exhibition. Currently, four AAM operators are planning to conduct demonstration flights around the expo site in Yumeshima, and between two ports inside and outside the expo site. Although the plans of these operations are still in flux, in this article, I will introduce an overview of the planned AAM operations at the upcoming expo as of December 2024, when this article was drafted. Planned Ports Image Source: Information added to a map compiled by the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan Expected Operators ANA HD / Joby Aviation All Nippon Airways Holdings (a holding company of All Nippon Airways) and Joby Aviation (a U.S. electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft developer) are planning to operate Joby Aviation’s S4. This model is classified as a “vectored thrust” type, which has fixed wings and uses the same thrust mechanism for vertical takeoff/landing and cruising by changing the orientation of the thrust mechanism. Major specifications of the S4 are as follows: Seating capacity: 5 (1 pilot and 4 passengers) Maximum cruise speed: 322km/h They plan to operate the S4 at the EXPO Vertiport based around the bay area in Yumeshima. Joby Aviation’s S4 (Courtesy of Joby Aviation. (c) Joby Aero, Inc.) Image Source: Website of Joby Aviation (Media Kit) Soracle Soracle Corporation, which is a joint venture of Sumitomo Corporation and Japan Airlines, is planning to operate Midnight from Archer Aviation (a U.S. eVTOL aircraft developer). This model is also a “vectored thrust” type eVTOL aircraft like Joby Aviation’s S4 above. Major specifications of Midnight are as follows: Seating capacity: 5 (1 pilot and 4 passengers) Payload: 454kg Range: 161km (normally 32 ~ 80 km operation is expected) Maximum cruise speed: 241km/h They plan to operate Midnight between the EXPO Vertiport and the Osaka Heliport. Archer Aviation’s Midnight at Public Exhibition Photo Source: Shinichiro Tsuri Marubeni Marubeni Corporation is planning to operate the VX4 from Vertical Aerospace, which is a UK eVTOL aircraft developer (and also HEXA from LIFT Aircraft, which is a U.S. eVTOL aircraft developer). This model is also a “vectored thrust” type eVTOL aircraft like the two aforementioned models. Major specifications of the VX4 are as follows: Seating capacity: 5 (1 pilot and 4 passengers) Range: 161km Maximum cruise speed: 241km/h They plan to operate the VX4 between the EXPO Vertiport and Amagasaki Phoenix. Vertical Aerospace’s VX4 ((c) Vertical Aerospace Ltd.) Image Source: Website of Vertical Aerospace (Media Kit) SkyDrive SkyDrive (a Japanese eVTOL aircraft developer) is planning to operate its SKYDRIVE. This model is classified as a “multi-rotor” type, which does not have fixed wings and uses a thrust mechanism consisting of three or more rotors for vertical take-off and landing. Major specifications of SKYDRIVE are as follows: Seating capacity: 3 (1 pilot and 2 passengers) Maximum takeoff weight: 1,400kg Range: Approx. 15km Maximum cruise speed: 100km/h They plan to operate SKYDRIVE between the EXPO Vertiport and Osaka Port, Central Jetty. SkyDrive’s SKYDRIVE ((c) SkyDrive Inc.) Image Source: Website of SkyDrive Conclusion While the AAMs mentioned above are still under development and in the process of type certification, the expected operators are advancing their efforts to carry out demonstration flights at the expo. I hope that the actualization of these flights will provide a significant opportunity to enhance the social acceptance of AAM, as well as yield best practices and lessons learned that can be shared internationally regarding AAM operations. References Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, Smart Mobility Expo, Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/future-index/smart-mobility/advanced-air-mobility/ Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, Status of each company's consideration of AAM at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan https://www.expo2025.or.jp/wp/wp-content/uploads/20240926-1-siryou1.pdf Joby Aviation https://www.jobyaviation.com/ Archer Aviation https://archer.com/ Vertical Aerospace https://vertical-aerospace.com/ SkyDrive https://skydrive2020.com/

  • 2010 HSR in Chicago | JITTI USA

    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

  • March 2019

    Tokyo is Waiting for You Tokyo is Waiting for You by Daisuke Miyamoto 1. INTRODUCTION Japanese people are pleased that a lot of foreign people have been visiting Japan recently. The number of visitors from overseas has been increasing year by year, and was numbered at about 31 million in 2018. Furthermore, the Japanese government is promoting a variety of policies to achieve targets of 40 million visitors in 2020 and 60 million in 2030. Japan has been working on developing infrastructure and services in order to accommodate for the influx of foreign visitors, and to alleviate the stress of traveling around Japan. In this report, I will narrow the scope of these accommodations to those made in Tokyo, which is one of biggest cities in the world, and in particular will introduce some practices of Tokyo Metro, which is one of the biggest subway operators in the world. 2. TRAIN STATION NAVIGATORS Tokyo Metro has arranged for station navigators, called service managers, to assist you with finding fares, buying tickets, instructing you on the best routes to get to your destination, and informing you of the facilities around the station. They will also do their best to answer any other inquiries you may have, and can even communicate in English, Chinese, and Korean with the help of a tablet. Service managers can be found at 16 major stations like Ueno Station, Akihabara Station and Ginza Station. In stations without station managers, other station staff will be able to help assist you with help of a tablet as well. What’s more, there are interpreters who can speak English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish and Portuguese over the phone. A Service Manager is Responding to a Visitor’s Inquiry 3. TICKETS TO RIDE Tokyo Metro offers various discount tickets to suit your style of travel. I’ll introduce three kinds of tickets. Tokyo Subway Ticket: The three kinds of Tokyo Subway tickets are the 24-hour ticket, the 48-hour ticket, and the 72-hour ticket. These tickets are valid with an unlimited use on any Tokyo Metro line and Toei Subway within the hours you select. These tickets are suitable for those people who would like to travel around Tokyo. Greater Tokyo Pass: It might surprise you, but there are a lot of private train operators in Japan, and of course in Tokyo too. It means that you might sometimes need to buy tickets at each transfer point along your route to get to your destination. However, you don’t need to worry about it. This Greater Tokyo Pass gives you unlimited usage on 12 kinds of train operators and 51 kinds of bus systems in the Kanto-area for 3 days. There are lots of suburban destinations around Tokyo such as Takao-mountain and Enoshima. This ticket is suitable for those people who would like to go around suburban area of Tokyo. Airport-Downtown Tokyo Routes and Ticket: The biggest international airport, Narita Airport, is about 35 miles in distance from the Tokyo downtown area, but that is not a problem. There are many convenient ways like the Keisei Skyliner to get to downtown Tokyo. The Airport-Downtown Tokyo Routes and Ticket is a joint pass with both the Keisei Skyliner airport transport ticket and the Tokyo Subway Ticket. You can get to your destination in Tokyo, travel around the city, and go to and from Narita Airport with a single payment. Some of the tickets 4. TOKYO IS WAITING FOR YOU!!  Tokyo has not only attractive places to visit, but also has efficient infrastructure and attentive services that allow you to get around easily. Why don’t you visit Tokyo? Back to All JITTI Journals March 2019 Feature Article

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