Japan Railways (JR)

Japan Railways (JR) is a network of train companies that operate most of Japan’s passenger rail services. Originally part of the government-owned Japanese National Railways (JNR), it was privatized in 1987 into six regional companies and one freight company. JR provides fast, reliable transportation across cities, suburbs, and rural areas, connecting major urban centers like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Known for its punctuality and efficiency, JR offers various train types, including the shinkansen (bullet trains) which can reach high speeds. It is a vital part of Japan’s transportation infrastructure, facilitating daily commuting and travel nationwide.