How extensive are Japan's train and subway systems?
The six passenger-carrying railway companies that emerged after the break-up and privatization of the Japanese National Railways in 1987 have lines covering 20,061 kilometers (12,468 miles) nationwide. An additional 16,980 kilometers (10,553 miles) are operated by 190 private railway companies.

Subway systems are also extensive; lines stretch for a total of 570 kilometers (354 miles) in nine major cities, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. The total for Tokyo alone is 240 kilometers (149 miles), the fourth longest in the world after New York, London, and Paris.

Commuter rail networks are well developed in greater Tokyo and other urban areas, and residents use trains as their main means of getting around, including going to work and school.



Photos courtesy of Tokyo Metropolitan Government.