By / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team, compiled and reported
The "Kyushu Shinkansen," a major artery of Kyushu's transportation network, suffered damage from the Kumamoto earthquake, leading to widespread suspension of services; train derailments, track misalignments and distortions, over 150 sections of damaged railway lines, and 130 damaged soundproof walls on elevated bridges were among the significant issues. Originally estimated to take two months to repair, or one month at the earliest, the Kyushu Shinkansen was restored to full service in record time, resuming operations along its entire line on April 27.
The Kyushu Shinkansen, which sustained damage from the Kumamoto earthquake, resumed full-line operations on April 27. (Image source / Kyushu Shinkansen)
The section between Hakata and Kumamoto, which resumed service just nine days after the earthquake on April 23, was fully restored within two weeks of the quake. With Japan’s Golden Week holiday approaching, the reopening of the Kyushu Shinkansen is great news for local transport and tourists, showcasing the remarkable efficiency of the recovery work.