In a journey of speed, technology and deepening ties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday traveled aboard Japan’s iconic bullet train from Tokyo to Sendai, accompanied by Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.
As the sleek Shinkansen glided across the countryside at lightning speed, the journey served as more than just a diplomatic exchange—it was a window into what India envisions for the future of its own railway system.
Capturing the spirit of the ride, Prime Minister Ishiba posted a photo on X, writing, “With Prime Minister Modi to Sendai. Continuing from last night, I’m accompanying him from inside the car.”
Prime Minister Modi, who is on a two-day official visit to Japan for the 15th India-Japan Annual Summit also shared the pictures, saying they have arrived in Sendai.
He arrived on Friday and is visiting Sendai to tour key industrial facilities, including a semiconductor plant and a bullet-train coach manufacturing site.
Japan’s Pioneering Leap
Japan revolutionised global rail travel in 1964 with the launch of the world’s first bullet train—the Shinkansen—coinciding with the Tokyo Olympics.
At that time, it was a technological marvel, capable of speeds over 200 km/h, dramatically reducing travel time between major cities. Over the decades, Japan’s bullet train network has expanded and evolved, setting the gold standard for speed, safety, and efficiency in high-speed rail.
It dramatically cut travel time between Japan’s major economic hubs and symbolised the country’s post-war recovery, technological prowess, and ambition.
Japan’s Shinkansen network has expanded across the country, becoming a global model for high-speed rail, celebrated for its punctuality, safety, and comfort.
India’s Bullet Train Journey: Just Beginning
Inspired by this innovation, India is now on the cusp of its own high-speed rail era. The country’s first bullet train project—the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) corridor—is currently under construction with technical and financial assistance from Japan. The 508-kilometer stretch aims to cut travel time between the two cities from over seven hours to just about two.
The project, overseen by the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL), is designed to use Japan’s E5 Series Shinkansen technology, known for its top speed of around 320 km/h and stellar safety record.
Where India Stands
Though India is still laying its first bullet train tracks, the country has made significant progress in railway modernization—introducing semi-high-speed trains like the Vande Bharat Express and undertaking extensive electrification and track upgrades. However, the leap to full high-speed rail remains a transformative shift that promises to redefine intercity travel.
Why Bullet Trains Matter for India
High-speed rail offers several key advantages over conventional rail:
- Speed and Time Efficiency: Travel times are drastically reduced, boosting productivity and convenience.
- Comfort and Safety: Bullet trains provide world-class comfort and have a near-perfect safety record globally.
- Environmental Benefits: Powered by electricity, they emit far less carbon than cars or planes, aligning with India’s sustainability goals.
- Economic Impact: High-speed corridors can stimulate regional economies, create jobs, and encourage urban development along their routes.
The Road (or Rail) Ahead
India’s first bullet train is expected to be operational by 2027-28. If successful, it could pave the way for additional corridors connecting other major cities such as Delhi, Varanasi, and Chennai.
Prime Minister Modi’s ride in Japan wasn’t just a photo-op—it was a glimpse into a future where India’s trains are faster, cleaner, and more efficient.
As India lays the foundation for high-speed rail, it stands poised to replicate—and perhaps one day rival—the success of Japan’s legendary bullet train revolution.
What Is a Bullet Train?
Commonly known as “bullet trains” due to their aerodynamic, bullet-like shape, these high-speed trains are engineered to travel at speeds ranging from 250 to 350 km/h or more.
They operate on specially constructed tracks with advanced signaling and safety systems that ensure seamless, high-speed, and high-frequency travel.
Beyond speed, bullet trains are known for their punctuality, energy efficiency, quiet operation, and exceptional safety record—making them a model for next-generation transport systems around the world.