Japan maglev project faces calls to clarify timeline after decade of delays

TransportationAdditional postponements likely despite key construction approvalThe first leg of the Linear Chuo Shinkansen will connect Tokyo and Nagoya in as little as 40 minutes, less than half the current fastest bullet train. (Central Japan Railway)HIROKI AKAHORIJuly 17, 2026 02:21 JSTNAGOYA, Japan -- Now that Japan's ultrafast maglev train line plan is finally moving forward again after local approval, municipalities along the planned route want to know when the oft-delayed project will be completed and begin delivering economic benefits.