Read publications by JITTI USA staff that are outside of their regular reports, including of special projects. SPECIAL REPORTING Latest News June 2024 United States Coast Guard Academy Commencement: A New Era of Leaders in Maritime Security By Daisuke Komatsu Read More (English) (Image Credit: U.S. Coast Guard Academy) February 2024 The Shape of Happiness Through Keisuke Hira i's Lens: When Survivors Smile for the Camera By Daisuke Komatsu Read More (English) Read More (日本語) _

President's Message Tetsuya Okuda President Japan International Transport and Tourism Institute, USA Hello and welcome to the website of the Japan International Transport and Tourism Institute, USA (JITTI USA)! I am delighted that you have taken an interest in our organization and that you would like to learn more. Our organization began with such individuals as yourselves- with those who strove to discover all that they could, sought ways to make connections, and looked to help their local communities and others. At JITTI USA, we recognize that transport and tourism are an especially vital means to make a difference, as not only do they impact local policies and social customs, but also global relationships. We strive in our research to learn about contemporary transport and tourism issues and make recommendations of beneficial policy and social changes to the Japanese, American, and international communities at our events and in our publications. I encourage you to explore our website further to find out more, and hope to see you soon at one of our functions, which are opportunities for international communication, and remain free and open to the public. Till then, I wish you well. About Mr. Okuda Tetsuya Okuda was appointed in November 2019 as the President of the Japan International Transport and Tourism Institute, USA (JITTI USA), which was established by the Japan Transport and Tourism Research Institute (JTTRI). His experience in the field of transport is over 30 years and, prior to taking this appointment, he held the position of the Director-General of the Road Transport Bureau, and the Director-General of the Railway Bureau of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) of Japan. Mr. Okuda entered the service of the Ministry of Transport (presently MLIT) in 1984 and has held many important positions since then. He worked as the Private Secretary to the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, the Director-General of the Aviation Network Department in the Civil Aviation Bureau, and the Deputy Vice-Minister for Policy Coordination in the Minister's Secretariat. Mr. Okuda’s career also includes being the Executive Director of the Japan National Tourism Organization’s (JNTO) London Office from 2006 to 2008. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Law from the University of Tokyo in 1984.

Thank you for your patience as we update this webpage.

JITI 2016 Drone Seminar Strategies on Drone Application in the Transportation Sector March 3rd 2016 The Ritz-Carlton, Washington D.C. 1150 22nd St NW, Washington, D.C. With substantial technological development in recent years, the applications of drones (or Unmanned Aircraft System: UAS) has grown in various areas in the United States and elsewhere. Some suggest the growth of drone-driven business sectors will generate a 12 billion dollar market in the next 10 years. Expedited delivery services and deliveries in remote area through the use of drones are gaining more attention, as well as the incorporation of drones into daily maintenance and inspections by railroad operators and in other areas relating to the public and private sectors. This signifies the positive impact and future contribution of drones in promoting the convenience and safety for the greater public. On the other hand, drones have been reported to be found on the roof of the Japanese Prime Minister’s Office, as well as in and around the White House. As these incidents have sparked discussion around security and privacy, voices seeking for stronger enforcement of drone operations have become more evident. In the US, the federal government, as well as state and local governments, have implemented, or are considering implementing, various regulations pertaining to drone operation. Similarly, in Japan, a reform bill was recently passed to regulate the operation of drones in certain airspace. This seminar called for a discussion among drone manufactures, enforcement agencies, and the transportation sector about the depth and breadth of future drone development. The discussion led to an examination of potential strategies to enable innovative and convenient commercial services to consumers via drones, while maintaining the safety and security of national airspace. Opening Remarks Makoto Washizu President JITI USA Bio Keynote Speeches Akira Sato Senior Manager, Yamaha Co., Ltd. Bio Presentation Tomoyuki Izu President, enRoute Co., Ltd. Bio Baptiste Tripard Managing Director, senseFly Bio Presentation Travis Mason Public Policy and Gov't Affairs, Google Bio Chris Swider Manager of Research and Development, FAA Bio Panel Discussion Greg Walden Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP Bio

Commuter Rail Round Table Initiatives for the Recovery from the COVID-19 Pandemic and Strategies to Ensure the Resilience of Commuter Rail Companies in the U.S. and Japan A virtual event hosted by APTA and JTTRI, and organized with JITTI USA Wednesday, December 8th, 2021 Online Summary of the event The COVID-19 pandemic has had an enormous impact on the management of railroad industries in both the U.S. and Japan, as it has led to an increase in teleworking, changes in shopping behavior, and a sharp decline in tourist traffic. Railroad companies in both countries are faced with decisions on how to respond to the drastic changes in user behavior and how to ensure the resilience of their business operations in the future, a topic of great interest among transportation professionals in both countries. APTA (American Public Transportation Association), JTTRI, and JITTI USA held a virtual round table on December 8th, 2021 to exchange their views and to discuss the above issues. At the event, senior executives of major U.S. commuter rail operators presented their latest strategies, including the need for a new interpretation of security and safety, flexible fare options to accommodate changing work patterns, and the need to improve the customer experience. From the Japan side, senior executives from leading railroad companies presented their latest initiatives, including measures to disperse passengers during peak hours in consideration of diversifying user lifestyles, measures to utilize space inside stations such as the development of shared offices, and measures to improve the cost structure. This meeting was held as a closed session between people in the industry and the governments of both countries. A total of 108 people participated. Opening Remarks Paul Skoutelas President and Chief Executive Officer, American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Masafumi Shukuri Chairman of the Board, Japan International Transport and Tourism Institute, USA (JITTI USA) Chairman, Japan Transport and Tourism Research Institute (JTTRI) Bio Bio Moderator & Presenter: General Overview of the U.S. Commuter Railway Matthew O. Tucker Executive Director, North County Transit District Presentation Presenters from the U.S. Jim Derwinski Chief Executive Officer, Metra Presentation Catherine Rinaldi President, Metro-North Railroad Presentation Michelle Bouchard Acting Executive Director, Caltrain Presentation Presenter: General Overview of Japan’s Commuter Railway Tetsuya Okuda President, Japan International Transport and Tourism Institute, USA (JITTI USA) Presentation Presenters from Japan Hitoshi Saimyo Senior Executive Officer, East Japan Railway Company Fumiaki Shiroishi Representative Director and Vice President,Tokyu Railways Akihiro Kosaka Senior Managing Director, Tokyo Metro Presentation Presentation Presentation

Japan's Resumption of Accepting Foreigners as a Sign of Recovery from the COVID Pandemic Japan's Resumption of Accepting Foreigners as a Sign of Recovery from the Coronavirus Pandemic By Tetsuhiro Hagiwara On October 11, 2022, the Japanese government drastically eased border control measures (entry requirements) and reopened visa-free entry to Japan for visitors from 68 countries and regions. In a delay of several months after similar measures were relaxed in Europe, the U.S., and other countries around the world, Japan’s ban preventing foreign travelers entering the country was finally lifted. In Japan, there are daily upbeat news reports such as "foreigners are rushing to Japan because of the weak yen" and "foreign tourists are buying explosively again". In this issue, I would like to focus on the resumption of accepting foreign visitors to Japan, which could be a catalyst for the Japanese economy to finally turn upward after the long, long tunnel of the Coronavirus pandemic. 1. Relaxation of border control measures (entry requirements) by the Japanese government First, let us review the entry requirements into Japan as of the end of October 2022. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website, “After midnight on October 11, 2022 (Japan Standard Time), all returnees and entrants to Japan, with the exception of those with symptoms of suspected infection with the coronavirus, will not, in principle, be subject to inspection upon entry, and will not be required to wait at home or in accommodation after entering Japan, to follow up during the waiting period, or to refrain from using public transportation. In principle, no inspection will be conducted at the time of entry for all returnees and entrants, except for those with symptoms. However, all returnees and entrants shall be required to submit either a certificate of vaccination (3 doses) with a vaccine listed on the World Health Organization's Emergency Use List or a certificate with a negative result of a test taken within 72 hours prior to departure from the country.” (Image source: NHK) Since March of this year, when the corona outbreak was under control, the Japanese government has gradually eased restrictions on the entry of foreigners, resuming the admission of tourists in June for group travel only, and in September, raising the daily limit to 50,000. However, due to persistent requests from various quarters for the resumption of individual travel and visa-free visits to Japan, the situation has finally returned to a level close to what it was before the Coronavirus pandemic. As a result, the cap of 50,000 daily visitors has been lifted, individual travelers are now accepted, and those entering Japan for tourism purposes from outside the country are exempted from obtaining the short-stay visas that they were seeking, bringing them in line with the entry requirements of Europe, the U.S., and other countries around the world. In comparison to before the Coronavirus pandemic, a certificate with a negative test result within 72 hours of travel is still required for "those who have not received three doses of the vaccine." However, considering the fact that approximately 70% of the world's population has been vaccinated at least once, it can be said that the hurdle has been lowered considerably for travelers planning to visit Japan. The Japanese government has stated that it will continue to require all visitors returning to or entering Japan to present a certificate of three vaccinations or a negative PCR test result within 72 hours prior to departure from Japan. The U.S. and Japan are the only G7 countries that have introduced this measure, and both governments will consider easing the measure after assessing the state of infections domestically and overseas, and the response of other countries. At a post-cabinet press conference on October 18, Digital Minister Taro Kono announced that “Visit Japan Web,” a web-based support site that enables foreign tourists visiting Japan and Japanese nationals returning from overseas to complete quarantine, customs, and other procedures necessary for entry into Japan online, will be integrated with the “MY (My SOS)” (Confirmation of the Health and Whereabouts of the Swine Flu) function, which allows registration of vaccination certificates and negative testimonies for entry requirements against new-coronavirus infection, on November 1. (As part of efforts to unify online pre-entry procedures, MY SOS will cease to be offered on November 14). Some of the information entered so far is common information, such as passport details and date of return, and the integration will reduce the number of times for entering that information and improve convenience. At the press conference, Minister Kono said, "The Visit Japan Web will allow you to complete the necessary (web-based) procedures for entry into Japan. We want to make sure that you enter all the necessary information before you arrive so that you can pass smoothly through the airport". 2. Foreign visitors to Japan enjoying "Cool Japan" and "Cheap Japan” Now, as mentioned above, the hurdle for foreigners to visit Japan has finally been lowered. In Japan, it is reported every day that the number of foreign tourists is increasing in popular tourist destinations such as Tokyo and Osaka. Increasing number of foreign tourists in various places, including tourist destinations "Many foreign tourists in various locations" （Image source: ANN NEWS) Foreign tourists touring Tokyo A woman from Chile- "I really wanted to come to Japan. I feel like I have fulfilled my dream." (Image source: ANN NEWS） Tourists from Denmark listening to a guide in front of Sensoji Temple Regarding the wearing of masks, "The travel agency explained to us in advance that they require strict adherence to the rules for wearing masks in Japan, and we agreed with them before coming on the trip," they said.（Image source: NEWS Post Seven） Some enjoy shopping with the weak yen A couple from Israel Compared to other countries, Japan is cheap and we are very happy." （Image source: ANN NEWS) Foreign man shopping for anime goods in Akihabara “I'm happy with affordable prices because of the weak yen!” （Image source: Nippon Television Network NEWS） 3. Japanese government's intention to aim for 5 trillion yen in tourism consumption per year and expectations from the economic community I would like to share the Japanese government's expectations for inbound consumption and the industry's reaction to the recent significant easing of entry requirements. Before the Coronavirus pandemic, a record 31.88 million foreign travelers visited Japan in 2019. Inbound spending amounted to approximately 4.8 trillion yen annually, bringing significant economic benefits to the metropolitan area and tourist destinations. However, from the start of the pandemic in March 2020, the Japanese government began gradually strengthening its border control measures, and the number of inbound visitors to Japan plummeted to 4.11 million in 2020 and 240,000 in 2021, with the tourism industry still suffering a major blow. Japan continues to have the strictest entry restrictions among the G7 countries, and was in the process of receiving requests from various countries for the resumption of tourism for individuals. As for the Japanese government's intention, Prime Minister Kishida stated in his policy speech in early October that "Japan is a country that has prospered through the free flow of people, goods, and money to and from the rest of the world. With the weak yen and other factors as a backdrop, we would like to achieve an annual inbound consumption exceeding 5 trillion yen, which is more than the amount before the Coronavirus pandemic". With the recent drastic easing of entry requirements, the government intends to resume full-scale tourism. The Japanese government has also announced its intention to formulate a new plan to become a "tourism-oriented nation" by the end of this fiscal year, with the perspective of hosting the Osaka-Kansai World Expo in 2025. Nomura Research Institute estimates that the economic impact of the increase in the number of visitors to Japan will be 2.1 trillion yen in 2023. And SMBC Nikko Securities forecasts that inbound spending will regain its pre-COVID momentum by the end of 2024, taking into account the effect of the yen's depreciation, and is expecting a resurgence of explosive buying by visitors to Japan against the backdrop of the historically weak yen. The response of the economic community to the government's action has, of course, been positive, with airlines, whose business performance had been severely affected by the previous border control measures, seeing a sharp increase in bookings for international flights from overseas to Japan immediately after easing of the ban was announced. JAL (Japan Airlines) (Expressing support for the easing of entry requirements) "We want to be well prepared to welcome our customers and contribute to the recovery of the Japanese economy." ANA (All Nippon Airways), President Inoue "We are very pleased with the long-awaited deregulation. The economic impact of visitors to Japan before the Coronavirus pandemic was approximately 5 trillion yen, and we expect to see a recovery of the same scale. (Also, regarding the resumption of visa-free individual tourism) I believe that many people who have not been able to visit Japan for a long time will be able to come to Japan from now on. We expect to see an increase in demand not only for urban tourism, but also for regional tourism." Narita International Airport Corporation, President Tamura "The reason why the number of international arrivals and departures has not increased is because of Japan's strict entry requirements, so we are very grateful for the easing [or requirements]. I think it will take one or two months to see the actual effect. We will watch with anticipation whether demand for air travel will recover from the year-end and New Year holidays." Conclusion With the recent drastic relaxation of entry requirements, there are high expectations for inbound consumption by foreign visitors to Japan as a catalyst for Japan's economic recovery, but a look at reactions overseas reveals that foreign visitors' mindsets are not necessarily favorable. The Washington Post (U.S.A.), in an article titled "Japan is reopening. But the effects of its border closure will linger," pointed out the following. "Japan strictly limits foreign arrivals out of covid-19 concerns, a scientifically specious approach that has made the country an outlier among top economies and most Asia-Pacific neighbors that have reopened to tourists. Xenophobia has festered as policymakers and news coverage have tied foreigners to the spread of the virus. Investors, academics and international students have diverted their plans elsewhere. Even after Japan began accepting group tours recently, the intense monitoring and bureaucratic hurdles have largely kept tourists’ interest at bay. Now, Japan faces a credibility gap as it looks to rejoin the world. Figures in business, academia, policymaking and diplomacy are concerned the closure has punctured Japan’s image as a culture that values hospitality. Even with a full reopening, Japan would need concrete steps to restore its standing." Also, Chinese tourists, who were the main source of demand and inbound consumption in Japan before the Coronavirus pandemic, spending approximately 9.5 million in 2019, are expected to take a certain amount of time to return to Japan as overseas travel is still heavily restricted under the Chinese government's strong "Zero Corona Policy." The International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasts that the number of world travelers will exceed the pre-COVID level by 103% in 2024 compared to 2019, but only 97% will be in from the Asia-Pacific region, and it will be 2025 before the number exceeds pre-COVID levels. In the Asia-Pacific region, the recovery is expected to be delayed in China, where restrictions have not been eased. Other reasons for why the number of foreign visitors to Japan and inbound demand is unlikely to return to 2019 levels all at once, according to Nomura Research Institute, include the current high rate of new infections in Japan compared to other countries and the fact that many countries will refrain from overseas travel if the global economy slows in the future due to soaring prices and tightening monetary policies. However, we should learn from the experiences and measure outcomes of Europe and the U.S., which have been ahead of other countries in restoring borders and accepting foreigners during the coronavirus pandemic, and look forward to future trends to revive "Japan, the land of hospitality" that attract tourists from all over the world, while meanwhile balancing preventing the spread of infection and recovering inbound travel. References: Ministry of Foreign Affairs https://www.mofa.go.jp/p_pd/pds/page22e_000910.html Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/en/shisaku/kokusai/traveltojapan.html NHK News https://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/special/coronavirus/restrictions/detail/detail_95.html The Washington Post https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2022/09/16/japan-covid-restrictions-tourist-xenophobia/ Nomura Research Institute https://www.nri.com/jp/knowledge/blog/lst/2022/fis/kiuchi/1006 Global Outlook for Air Transport Times of Turbulence - IATA https://www.iata.org/en/iata-repository/publications/economic-reports/airline-industry-economic-performance---june-2022---report/#:~:text=The%20financial%20recovery%20will%20continue,from%20our%20end%2D2021%20forecast.&text=all%20regions%20in%202022%2C%20with,return%20to%20profitability%20this%20year Image Resources https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hbah4XUIQco https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Be4jom6WZQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rp_sQw9T954 Back to All JITTI Journals November 2022 Feature Article

JITTI Journal Cultural Article September 2024 Back to All JITTI Journals September 2024 Cultural Article Exciting Mountain Trips in Japan by Haruhiko Koyama When you think of Japan, what images come to mind? Perhaps the towering skyscrapers and neon-lit streets of Tokyo, the pop culture of manga and anime, or the historic temples and traditional atmosphere of Kyoto. However, I'd like to introduce you to a different, equally fascinating side of Japan—its mountainous regions. Japan is a country where nearly 60% of the land is covered by mountains. These mountain ranges stretch like a backbone across the country, dividing the Pacific Ocean side from the Sea of Japan side. This division contributes to the diverse climates and unique lifestyles across these regions. One of the best ways to enjoy Japan's mountains is through outdoor activities, with hiking being my personal favorite. There are many well-maintained trails in Japan's mountainous regions, offering something for everyone—from easy day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips, depending on your stamina and preferences. While you might be familiar with Mt. Fuji, Japan's tallest peak at 3,776 meters, I'd like to share some of the other amazing mountain areas in Japan that are worth exploring. Mt. Kitadake (3,193m) The second highest mountain in Japan, Kitadake is a towering peak in the southern section of the "Japanese Alps." From the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking views of some of Japan's most iconic mountains, including Mt. Fuji. Climbing Mt. Fuji is a great experience, but I believe the best way to enjoy it is by admiring its beautiful shape from a distance. And Mt. Kitadake is one of the best places to get the most spectacular views of Mt. Fuji! Mt. Kitadake is also famous for its abundant alpine flora, including the rare and endangered Kitadake-so, a flower that blooms shortly after the snow melts, from late June to early July. Kitadakesou, a rare alpine flower by keiichiro shikano is licensed under CC BY 2.0 A recommended itinerary is a 2-day, 1-night trip staying in a mountain hut. Starting from Hirogawara (1,510m), the trailhead can be reached by a combination of train, bus, or taxi from Tokyo. There are two mountain huts, Shiraneoike-koya (2,200m) and Katano-koya (3,000m), on the way to the summit, where you can choose to stay depending on your departure time and preferences. Personally, I’d like to stay at Katano-koya the next time I visit. It’s located about 50 minutes from the summit, at an elevation of 3,000 meters, where you'll be treated to fantastic mountain views. The hut was renovated in 2022, offering a more comfortable stay. Unfortunately, it seems that reservations can only be made by phone, and online bookings are not available. 北岳肩の小屋 by Kirill Skorobogatov is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0 The typical season for hiking is from late June to late October. If you want to avoid snow, plan your hike from late July onward. The fall foliage from mid to late September is also enjoyable. Jomon-sugi Cedar in Yakushima Island Yakushima is an island located in the southwestern part of Japan. Despite being an island, it boasts peaks that nearly reach 2,000 meters in elevation. The island's abundant rainfall creates a unique ecosystem with diverse flora and fauna. The ancient cedar trees, some of which are believed to be thousands of years old, are a must-see. Yakushima by Takeshi Kuboki is licensed under CC BY 2.0 In addition to hiking, you can enjoy kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), fishing, and diving on Yakushima. I recommend staying for at least three to four days on this island to fully experience everything it has to offer. _DSC5503.jpg by Motohiro Sunouchi is licensed under CC BY 2.0 I believe the highlight of Yakushima is hiking to see the Jomon-sugi Cedar, a giant cedar tree believed to be between 2,000 and 7,200 years old. The awe-inspiring presence of this tree will make you reflect on the countless years it has endured. The hike to Jomon-sugi Cedar is a full-day adventure, with a round trip of about 20 kilometers and an elevation gain of 700 meters. It is not an easy hike, but if you are an experienced hiker, it is well worth the effort. big old tree by 8 og is licensed under CC BY 2.0 Image taken by author (Haruhiko Koyama) The good time to visit Yakushima for hiking is from March to November. Since Yakushima is known for its heavy rainfall, be sure to bring waterproof gear. In recent years, adventure travel destinations in Japan, such as Mt. Fuji, the Nakasendo, the Kumano Kodo—Japan’s ancient pilgrimage network—and the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, have gained recognition among international travelers. I hope this article inspires you to explore other equally fascinating mountainous regions in Japan. Sources Japan Institute of Country-ology and Engineering https://www.jice.or.jp/knowledge/japan/commentary07 Hikes in Japan Mt. Kitadake Loop from Hirogawara https://hikesinjapan.yamakei-online.com/course/49.php Jomon Sugi Round Trip from the Arakawa Trailhead https://hikesinjapan.yamakei-online.com/course/137.php AllTrails Mount Kitadake - Hirogawara https://www.alltrails.com/ar/trail/japan/yamanashi/mount-kitadake-hirogawara Jomon Sugi Cedar Trail https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/japan/kagoshima--2/jomon-sugi-cedar-trail Yamakei Online https://www.yamakei-online.com/yamanavi/yama.php?yama_id=592 Shiraneoike-koya https://shiraneoike.ashiyasu.com/ Katano-koya https://katanokoya.com/ Yakushima World Heritage Conservation Center https://www.env.go.jp/en/park/yakushima/ywhcc/ecotour/jyoumon_e.html World Natural Heritage in Japan https://world-natural-heritage.jp/en/yakushima/

The Greater Washington D.C. region has a history of Transit-Oriented Development, and there is continued interest in the region to expand walkability to areas around stations. < Back Surface Transportation Survey of Smart City Trends in the West: Transit-oriented Development and Mobility-as-a-Service Part 4: Case Study – Washington DC (1) By Akito Okabe The Greater Washington D.C. region has a history of Transit-Oriented Development, and there is continued interest in the region to expand walkability to areas around stations. Download the Report

Status of Automated Driving on Subways Status of Automated Driving on Subways by Naoki Sato Automation is advancing across all sectors of society, from logistics and warehouse operations to familiar areas like automobiles and home appliances. In recent years, developments in generative AI and robotics have brought about systems that operate without human intervention, gradually becoming integrated into our daily lives. Many of you may have already experienced some form of this transformation. Subways, which support urban mobility, are also taking part in this trend toward automation. In the past, subways were typically operated manually by drivers and conductors, but in recent years, automatic train operation (ATO) systems have been increasingly adopted in countries like Japan and the United States. In this article, we will explore the definition and classification of automatic train operation in subways, introduce examples of its implementation in Japan, and compare them with the situation in the United States to gain a deeper understanding of subway automation. When people hear that a train has "automated driving" they often imagine a fully unmanned train with no driver or conductor. However, automatic train operation in the railway industry consists of several levels, which are internationally classified under the “Grade of Automation” (GoA) system. For example, GoA1 refers to "non-automated operation" (manual operation), where drivers and conductors control acceleration, braking, door operations, and respond to abnormalities. At GoA2, acceleration and braking are automated, while the driver is mainly responsible for monitoring and emergency handling. This GoA2 level is currently widespread in countries such as Japan and the United States, as mentioned earlier. GoA3 is known as "driverless train operation with an onboard attendant" — trains run and stop automatically, with no driver onboard. The attendant, who is not required to be in the front cab, is responsible for tasks such as emergency evacuation guidance. The most advanced level, GoA4, is fully unmanned — all operations, including monitoring, door control, and abnormality handling, are managed entirely by the system. In Japan, a unique intermediate level called "GoA2.5" — which is not included in the international standards — is also being considered. At this level, a crew member without a train driver’s license rides in the front cab and is responsible for emergency stops, providing a transitional form of operation. Classification of Grades of Automation (GoA) in railway operation. (Adapted from Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), September 13, 2022, "Railway Autonomous Driving Technology Study Group" p. 2) In Japan, GoA2-level operation, which eliminates the need for a conductor, is commonly referred to as “one-man operation,” and it has already been implemented on many lines. For example, on Tokyo Metro’s Namboku Line, one-man operation using ATO (GoA2) was introduced when the line first opened in 1991. That same year, the Toei Subway also introduced one-man operation (GoA2) on the newly opened sections of the Ōedo Line. Since then, this system has expanded to other lines, including Tokyo Metro’s Marunouchi and Yūrakuchō Lines, as well as Toei’s Mita Line. Alongside the introduction of one-man ATO operations, platform doors have also been installed to enhance safety, reflecting efforts to develop the necessary infrastructure for secure automated operations. Through such comprehensive initiatives, urban subways in Japan are steadily progressing toward automation, even if full driverless operation has yet to be realized. More recently, Tokyo Metro announced that starting in 2025, it will conduct demonstration tests aimed at achieving GoA2.5 operation on the Marunouchi Line, in conjunction with the transition to a CBTC (Communication-Based Train Control) system. A photo of the platform doors installed on the Namboku Line （ by Metro Cultural Foundation ） Meanwhile, subway automation in the United States began earlier than in Japan. In Washington, D.C., WMATA (Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority) introduced GoA2-level automatic train operation (ATO) when the system opened in 1976. However, after a rear-end collision occurred in 2009, automatic operation was suspended. Following various safety improvement measures, ATO was reintroduced on the Red Line in 2024. While there were plans to expand automated operation to other lines beginning in 2025, issues such as train overruns emerged after the reintroduction. The Washington Metrorail Safety Commission (WMSC) called for thorough investigation and verification before any further expansion. On May 23, 2025, WMATA received approval from the WMSC and began expanding ATO to the Green and Yellow Lines. In recent years, New York’s MTA has developed plans to upgrade its aging signal systems to CBTC (Communication-Based Train Control), and along with this, the introduction of GoA2-level automatic train operation (ATO) is also being pursued. However, due to the substantial costs involved, it appears that expanding the number of lines with ATO will take many years. WMATA GoA Initiatives （Adapted from Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), April 24, 2025, “World Class Transit Safety and Operations Committee”, p.9） Up to this point, we’ve taken a brief look at the state of subway automation in Japan and the United States. But why is automatic operation being introduced in subways in the first place? One major reason is to address labor shortages. In Japan, where the population is aging and birthrates are declining, it is becoming increasingly difficult to secure sufficient numbers of drivers and conductors. Automation helps reduce the number of required personnel on-site and contributes to maintaining a sustainable operational system. In addition, by systematizing train operations, it reduces human error and improves the precision of on-time performance. (Japan had a high level of punctuality even before autonomous driving was introduced.) Furthermore, in the case of Japan, automation has been implemented in conjunction with platform doors, helping to create safer environments for visually impaired passengers and others. The advancement of automation in subways is not merely about reducing manpower—it also plays an important role in ensuring safety and peace of mind for a diverse range of users. To maintain subways—the “lifelines of the city”—in a safe and sustainable way, automatic operation technology will become an increasingly vital tool in the years ahead. While some countries and regions around the world have already introduced GoA4-level fully automated systems, it is our hope that Japan and the United States—each with well-developed existing networks and similar conditions—will deepen their cooperation and continue working toward even better subway systems. References Japan Transport and Tourism Research Institute website (Research report on autonomous driving) https://www.jttri.or.jp/events/2024/sympo55.html Tokyo Metro website: https://www.tokyometro.jp/news/2023/214836.html (Consideration of GoA2.5 on the Marunouchi Line) https://www.tokyometro.jp/news/2024/219601.html (Introduction of CBTC on the Marunouchi Line) Metro Cultural Foundation https://metroarchive.jp/pic_year/year1990/%E3%83%9B%E3%83%BC%E3%83%A0%E3%83%89%E3%82%A2-2.html Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism https://www.mlit.go.jp/tetudo/content/001512320.pdf WMATA https://www.wmata.com/about/calendar/events/Safety-and-Operations-Committee-April-24-2025.cfm https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Metro-to-launch-Automatic-Train-Operation-on-the-Green-and-Yellow-lines-on-May-23.cfm The Washington Post https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2025/04/09/metro-automation-red-line-safety/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2025/05/21/green-yellow-metro-automated/ Back to All JITTI Journals May 2025 Feature Article

Airport Concession Policy in Japan < Back

JITTI Journal September 2022 Back to All JITTI Journals September 2022 Feature Article EXPO 2025: Osaka, Kansai, Japan by Hirokazu Nishikawa 1. Introduction In March 2019, JITTI USA introduced ( article link ) Japan's winning bid to host the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo. Since then, more exciting details have been finalized. The Osaka-Kansai Expo will be held in the Kansai region of Japan, on Yumeshima in Osaka Prefecture, and is scheduled to be held from April 13 to October 13, 2025, for a total of 184 days. The number of visitors is estimated to be approximately 28.2 million, and the economic ripple effect is estimated to be approximately 2 trillion yen. Japan has hosted five expositions in the past, the first of which was held in Osaka in 1970. Expos are events that bring together people and goods from all over the world, and they are places where wisdom and knowledge from across the globe gather to address various universal issues.　 The 1970 Osaka Expo (EXPO '70), the first to be held in Japan and Asia, became a major event symbolizing Japan's rapid economic growth. The 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo will be the first international exposition to be held in Japan in 20 years, following Expo 2005. The Expo is also expected to showcase new science and technology, and Japan is currently working on a number of initiatives in preparation for the event. In this issue, we would like to outline the framework of the Expo, the necessary infrastructure development, and the status of regulations and maintenance of the "flying car," which is expected to be one of the highlights of the Expo. Yumeshima Location Map (From: Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition2025 ) 2. Outline The official website of the Osaka-Kansai Expo states that the purpose of the Expo is to use the centripetal force and power of the Expo to attract people and goods as a catalyst for continued growth in Osaka, Kansai, and Japan after the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Expo will also serve as a "catalyst" for the development of new technologies and products that will make life more convenient, and the two goals of the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo are to "contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)" and "realize Japan's national strategy Society 5.0." Specifically, with regard to the former goal, 2025 is an extremely important year for accelerating efforts to realize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) set by the United Nations. With 2030 established as the target to fulfill the SDGs,the Expo’s aim is to be a platform for accomplishing them by the deadline in 5 years. The latter aims to form Japan's national strategy "Society 5.0" (a human-centered society that balances economic development and solutions to social issues through a system that highly integrates cyberspace (virtual space) and physical space (real space)). This new society will follow past eras of the hunting and gathering, agricultural, industrial, and information societies. This age will be one in which various global issues are solved through technologies such as IoT (Internet of Things), AI (Artificial Intelligence), robotics, big data, and biotechnology, or in other words, a society in which the SDGs have been achieved. Through all of the above, Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai will "bring together the world's wisdom, including cutting-edge technologies, to create and disseminate new ideas," "increase investment from Japan and abroad," "create innovation by stimulating exchange," "revitalize the local economy and small and medium-sized businesses," and "provide an opportunity to disseminate a rich Japanese culture. The project aims to realize the following goals. (From: Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan Master Plan ) 3. Infrastructure Development for the Expo (Subway Extension and Reinforcement of Kansai International Airport) The infrastructure development that will support the Osaka-Kansai Expo, with its great ambitions, will be the first step in the preparations for the event. In response to requests from Osaka Prefecture, Osaka City, and the Union of Kansai Governments, Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) has decided on a plan for infrastructure development related to the Expo. The plan includes the following five pillars. Development of infrastructure around the Expo site Improvement of access to the venue Improvement of safety Improvement of liveliness and attractiveness Improvement of wide-area transportation infrastructure Here are examples of transportation infrastructure improvements. Around the venue, plans call for extending the Osaka Metro Chuo Line, the transportation hub in the center of the prefecture, to Yumeshima Station (tentative name), as well as promoting the widening of other major bridges and the construction of multi-level intersections on trunk roads and other roads. As for infrastructure improvements to improve access to the venue, the Yodogawa River Left Bank Line, scheduled for completion by the end of 2026, is expected to be completed earlier and used as an access route for shuttle buses between Shin-Osaka Station/Osaka Station and the Expo site in the interim. In addition, Kansai International Airport will undergo a drastic renovation focusing on the expansion of international flight capacity, including the integrated operation of the north-south international flight area. Together with Terminal 2, this will create a terminal capacity of approximately 40 million passengers per year for international flights. As part of enhancements allowing venue access from a wide area, the Naniwa-suji Line will improve connections between Osaka and Kansai International Airport and the extension of the Osaka Monorail will enable travel without passing through urban areas, which will in turn strengthen the railroad infrastructure and create a ring highway network for the Osaka and the Kansai regions, including the New Meishin Expressway and the western extension of Osaka Bay Coastal Highway. 3. Flying Cars Several contents are expected to be presented at the Expo, but one of the highlights of the Expo will be the "flying car. This new technology is currently being studied around the world and is expected not only to solve various regional problems, but also to provide a new form of transportation that will enable people to lead affluent lives wherever they are. In Japan, the government and the private sector have cooperated to establish a public-private sector council to develop a regulatory system and form a market, and studies are underway nationwide to develop various services such as passenger transportation, scenic flights, and emergency transport services. This concept image of flying cars is by Ken Okuyama Design, and was created for the MLIT (From: AAMinJAPAN_211005ENG (mlit.go.jp ) The plan is to launch commercial service at the Osaka-Kansai Expo in 2025 to raise public awareness, as well as to start full-scale operations in logistics and passenger transportation. Although the "flying car" is a dream come true, it is not difficult to imagine that there have been many discussions regarding the regulatory system needed to ensure their operational safety. The following is a rough outline of the items under consideration and the progress of each. Safety standards for aircraft The short-term goal of the study on airframe safety standards between 2023 and 2025 is to organize special requirements for eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) airframes when obtaining type certification (certification that an aircraft type (excluding military aircraft) meets safety and environmental compatibility standards). The new requirements are to be organized for eVTOL (Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing) aircraft. Progress has been made in organizing the types of aircraft to be considered, organizing the flow of studies for formulating considerations when creating safety standards, and tentatively establishing design requirements based on the types and performance of eVTOLs that are assumed. Also, The mid- and long-term goals for 2025 and beyond include the development of safety standards that take into account the use of remote control, automatic flight, and autonomous flight, which are expected to provide convenience and help solve social issues. Certification of Pilot and Maintenance Vehicle Skill Regarding the requirements for certification of pilot and maintenance vehicle skills, the regulations state that "the role required of pilots must be considered in light of the development of new technologies such as autonomous control that will contribute to future autopilot systems, and the possibility that the role required of pilots will change" and "as in the case of conventional aircraft skills certification, the flight time and maintenance experience required for each type of eVTOL must be taken into account and included in the requirements.” As for the requirements for pilots and maintainers of remotely piloted aircraft, the following points are also being considered: "A proficiency certification system for remotely piloted aircraft, which is expected to be used for cargo transport, should be developed, taking into account trends in Europe and other countries. The requirements for remote piloted aircraft maintenance personnel include to: "Clarify what knowledge and experience is required for systems that are not available for other aircraft, especially in remote piloted aircraft. Operational Safety Standards The issues to be addressed in the operational safety standards can be divided into three categories: (1) those related to requirements and processes for setting flight areas, flight paths, and altitudes; (2) those related to the maintenance of takeoff and landing sites; and (3) those related to equipment requirements and processes. Regarding (1), the requirements include the establishment of limited routes and areas that take into consideration congestion with existing manned aircraft as a guarantee of air safety, and assumptions regarding the introduction of advanced traffic management systems that will become necessary as the number of routes and frequency of flying vehicles increase in the future. Regarding point (2), under the current legal system, in principle, takeoffs and landings are prohibited at locations other than airports, etc., and this includes the need to review operational methods as necessary. As for (3), it includes the clarification of equipment requirements to ensure that devices for measuring the airborne posture, altitude, position, or course of the eVTOL, and first-aid equipment for emergency landing when flying over water, etc. are clarified. 4. Conclusion The above is a brief overview of the Osaka-Kansai Expo, and some of the issues that have been discussed. The Osaka-Kansai Expo states, as part of its philosophy, "We will live together in this world by recognizing the similarities and differences among the various forms of life that exist in the natural world, by developing empathy for others, and by respecting diverse cultures and ideas. By doing so, we humans will be able to create new values to address various global issues and build a sustainable future." Although there is still a long way to go in the discussions and deliberations leading up to the Expo, which will no doubt require a higher level of expertise than that discussed in this article, we hope that the Expo will be a good opportunity for many people of all races and nationalities to visit, share knowledge, and promote international exchange and understanding, just as the aforementioned philosophy suggests. References: Overview | Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition (expo2025.or.jp) 報道発表資料：大阪・関西万博に向け、インフラ整備を推進～「２０２５年に開催される日本国際博覧会（大阪・関西万博）に関連するインフラ整備計画」の決定～ - 国土交通省 (mlit.go.jp) AAMinJAPAN_211005ENG (mlit.go.jp) 2025年大阪・関西万博に向けたインフラ整備計画決定。大阪メトロ延伸や淀川左岸線完成前倒し、関空国際線機能強化など 会場周辺やアクセス機能強化、にぎわい創出図る - トラベル Watch (impress.co.jp)

JTTRI-JITTI Global Seminar Series A Rapidly Changing Post Pandemic World Order and the New Japan-U.S. Relationship Hereafter A free virtual Zoom event hosted in English and Japanese (simultaneous interpretation provided) Monday, December 12th 8:00 - 9:30 pm EST Tuesday, December 13th 10:00 - 11:30 am JST / Save Event Details Overview The international situation is changing drastically in the post-COVID era. In addition to unforeseen and serious situations such as the invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces, the relationship between the U.S. and China is changing into a competitive one as a result of China's aggressive maritime expansion. Under these circumstances, some countries that are in favor of the concepts of (1) promoting and entrenching the rule of law, freedom of navigation, and free trade, (2) pursuing economic prosperity, and (3) ensuring peace and stability are emerging, while other countries are emphasizing relations with China and Russia, which are promoting changes in the status quo through force. At a time when the international order is undergoing rapid change, it is very important to discuss how the Japan-U.S. relationship, which has always been the most important bilateral relationship, should evolve to a new dimension. In addition to government-to-government diplomacy, people-to-people exchanges between the two countries have played a key role in the foundation of the Japan-US relationship, covering multiple layers and a wide range of areas including business, academia, culture, education, and tourism. However, since COVID has forced people to communicate virtually, it is necessary to reconsider the significance of the Japan-US relationship and reconstruct it at a higher level. In the seminar, we had two of the most knowledgeable and experienced experts on diplomacy and security in the U.S. and Japan speak on these topics. Opening Remarks Masafumi Shukuri Chairman, Japan Transport and Tourism Research Institute (JTTRI) Bio Keynote Speeches Richard L. Armitage Former Deputy Secretary of State President, Armitage International Bio Shotaro Yachi Former Secretary General of the National Security Secretariat Former Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs President, Fujitsu Future Study Center Bio Discussion Moderator Yoshikatsu Suzuki Distinguished Research Fellow, The Japan Forum on International Relations, Inc Bio Closing Remarks Tetsuya Okuda President, Japan International Transport and Tourism Institute, USA (JITTI USA) Bio