Scaled-back train services create congestion — and questions — in Japan
The moves, which were later canceled, had been based on requests from authorities despite concerns by some in the industry that they would lead to more crowded trains.
On some JR East trains, congestion rates exceeded 180% during the commuting hours Thursday, when services were reduced.
Since the trains have to slow down on sections of the track that were recently repaired, some journeys will take about an hour longer than normal.
Pandemic proves a blessing for some firms, but ruin for others
While manufacturers are generally seeing booming business, many outside the sector, such as airlines and railway operators, are facing an uphill battle.
Four JR firms log record net losses in April-December period
The spread of working from home and the reduced opportunities of business trips around the country hurt shinkansen services as well as conventional train services.
Travelers on the services are allowed to use the special carriage to speak on the phone, which is discouraged on the rest of the train, and hold online meetings.
Final departure times on 11 JR East lines will be brought forward by between 8 and 32 minutes.
Last trains in Tokyo area to leave earlier amid virus resurgence
JR East will bring forward the departure times of the last trains by 8 to 32 minutes.
Tokyo train operators agree not to run trains all night on New Year's Eve
Gov. Yuriko Koike and governors of three prefectures bordering the capital asked Wednesday for the central government and railway firms to halt the services, to limit the spread of COVID-19.
AI-equipped guide panels make Tokyo area train station debuts
Electronic panels equipped with artificial intelligence debuted Tuesday at major train stations in the Tokyo area to provide tourist and transfer information for a trial period, with the railway operator aiming to use them to make up for a future labor shortage. East Japan Railway ...
The lack of interoperability between different cashless payment applications remains a hurdle both for consumers and retailers.
JR East plans to reward off-peak commuters with point program
It will be possible to use the points to pay for train travel as well as purchases at shops inside station buildings and JR East's online stores.
