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Debut of the new bullet train in Kanazawa

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March 14, 2015 - Debut of the new bullet train in Kanazawa

The new Hokuriku Shinkansen debuted on March 13, 2015 amid fanfare befitting this train-crazy nation. The Hokuriku Shinkansen now connects Tokyo with Toyama and Kanazawa located on Japanfs west coast. On that day Kanazawa Station was flooded by train buffs, local dignitaries and lucky travellers before dawn, all eager to watch the first train leave the station at 6.01am.

The sleek new Hokuriku Shinkansen approaching Kanazawa Sation on March 14, 2015.
Train buffs snapping photos of the electric timetable displaying the first ever departure of the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Kanazawa Station at 6.01am.

The commencement of services coincided with a renewal of JR Kanazawa Station and celebrations continued across the weekend. The new line extends the existing shinkansen line between Nagano and Tokyo which was built for the 1998 Winter Olympics. Three classes of shinkansen with top speeds of 260km/h operate on the new line, reducing the travel time between Kanazawa and Tokyo to just 2 hours and 28 minutes for the 450.5km journey.

Ladies wearing hand-painted locally produced Kagayuzen kimonos prepare to distribute commemorative packs to the shinkansen passengers as they arrive from Tokyo.
Commemorative packs were given to all arriving shinkansen passengers.
A security guard stuggles to be heard even with a portable speaker over the exicted crowds.
A station attendant manning the new ticket gates in a sea of travellers.
A train enthusiast wears her favourite shinkansen cap.
A local mascot greets travellers as they enter Kanazawa Station.
The busy foot traffic through the refurbished Kanazawa Station.
Fresh fresias decorate the newly refurbished Kanazawa Station.
A man wears a special 'happi' coat announcing the start of the Hokuriku Shinkansen.
Dawn over the glass exterior of Kanazawa Station decorated with banners welcoming the new shinkansen.
The new Hokuriku Shinkansen departing Kanazawa Station on March 14, 2015, the first day of operations.

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List of Posts:
2015/09/05 - The best view along the Sea of Japan this winter
2015/03/14 - Debut of the new bullet train in Kanazawa
2015/03/06 - Weeping plum blossoms at Yuki Shrine - Mie Prefecture