New Opportunities for the Hokuriku Region:
Impact of Japan's Newest High Speed Rail
May 20, 2014
Japan Information and Culture Center (JICC), Embassy of Japan
1150 18th Street, N.W., Suite 100, Washington, D.C.
HOSTED BY:
Embassy of Japan
Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)
Japan International Transport Institute, USA (JITI)
Japan is the birthplace of high speed rail. Since its first opening in 1964, 50 years ago, Japan has continued to innovate advances in high speed rail to make it one of the fastest, most reliable, and safest forms of transportation in the world. Japan is ready to share this cutting-edge technology and business experience with the United States.
Japan is preparing to open yet another high speed rail line, namely the Hokuriku Shinkansen, which will shorten the travel time between Tokyo and the Hokuriku region by an hour and a half, nearly halving it. Opening in early 2015, this new line will generate enormous opportunities for economic growth in the region. The potential for tourism stands out.
To commemorate this special occasion, our distinguished speakers will discuss the technology, economics, and on-board experience associated with Japanese Shinkansen.
The event will also highlight the attractions of the Hokuriku region as a tourist destination. The area is a gold mine of amazing traditional handicrafts and a source for fresh locally grown ingredients and seafood.
PROGRAM:
Opening Remarks
Kanji Yamanouchi
Minister, Embassy of Japan
Keynote Speeches
Hitoshi Saimyo
Executive Director, New York Office, Japan Railways Group
John Tedford
Travel Information Manager, New York Office, Japan Railways Group
Geraldine Gardner
Director, Urban and Regional Policy, German Marshall Fund of the United States
Yuki Tanaka
Executive Director, New York Office, Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)
RECEPTION:
Welcome Remarks
Izumi Tokunaga
Director-General, Hokuriku-Shin'etsu District Transport Bureau, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan
Exhibits
Exhibits on Japan's appeal as a tourist destination and on the nation's high speed rail system.