Here are some more interesting related bits:
Shinkansen (which can be translated as "new trunk line," in Japanese) is noted for it's high speed and punctuality. It is operated by the Japan Railways and can travel at a speed of 320 kilometers per hour, or nearly 200 miles per hour. As a passenger train, it connects most major metropolitan areas in the island nation of Japan. At such a speed in such a relatively small area of land, it is a very quick and efficient form of transportation. Extreme events and natural disasters, such as typhoons and earthquakes, which are unfortunately a part of life in Japan, have been known to be some of the few exceptions to the bullet train's reputation for reliability. Typically, passengers can expect the train to be on time on any of it's six main lines and two smaller lines. The busiest line of which runs from Tokyo to Osaka.
If you're thinking of being a passenger on Shinkansen, you should know that they offer two classes, ordinary and Green Car. Green Car is more expensive but is generally more spacious.
