Japan, a land of technological sophistication and aesthetic subtlety, is once again proving that innovation and tradition can perfectly blend. The new generation of E10 Shinkansen bullet trains, being developed by East Japan Railway Company (JR East), combines cutting-edge engineering with the subtle beauty of nature – the train’s design is inspired by the petals of the Japanese cherry blossom (sakura).
Japan, where high technology and aesthetic tradition meet at every turn, is once again setting new standards in passenger transport. With the new series E10 Shinkansen bullet train announces a complete renovation of high-speed railways. The company's project East Japan Railway Company (JR East) is not only based on speed and efficiency, but also on an exceptional design story inspired by delicate flower petals Japanese cherry blossoms (sakura) – a symbol of transience, beauty and new beginnings.
A shape that moves like a flower in the wind
The train's exterior is the result of a collaboration with a London design studio Tangerines, where they wanted to create a design that was not only functional but also emotionally appealing. The wavy line running along the entire composition elegantly connects the carriages and creates a sense of gentle movement – as if the train were floating through the landscape without actually touching it.
The train's color scheme is designed with the natural environment in mind. The upper part is adorned with “Tsugaru green”, a fresh, bright color reminiscent of forests in springtime, while the lower part is covered by a darker “Evening Elm”, evoking the depths of the Japanese mountains. Both colors draw inspiration from the region Tohoku, which the train will also connect with the capital.
Safety and advanced technology in harmony
Although the train's design impresses with its aesthetics, the E10 Shinkansen bullet train also shines on a technical level. Special emphasis is placed on safety - which is more than understandable in Japan, the land of earthquakes. The train is equipped with innovative L-shaped guides, which prevent derailments during earthquakes, and with advanced lateral vibration damping, which provides passengers with a stable and comfortable ride even in difficult conditions.
The key advantage is also fanless motor, which operates quietly and energy-efficiently. This not only reduces noise in the passenger compartment, but also means less maintenance and a better energy balance. All technological solutions were developed and tested within the development platform ALFA-X, which ensures high reliability and long service life.
A travel experience that breathes with time
The interior of the train is designed with the modern passenger in mind. More spacious seats, only two in a row in the upper class, they provide more privacy and comfort that we usually associate with airline business class. In addition, there is a power outlet in every seat, which will please all digital nomads, business people and Netflix addicts.
Special attention is paid to accessibility. People with reduced mobility will have specially adapted window areas, including easy access and more room to manoeuvre. The train is also flexible for transporting larger amounts of luggage or even goods, as the interior can be easily rearranged – opening up possibilities for autonomous freight transport in the future.
On track until 2030
Although it will E10 Shinkansen bullet train in full use only until the year 2030, JR East is already planning the first test runs to autumn 2027. E10 will replace existing series E2 and E5, which have served as the backbone of Shinkansen connections for many years. Each new composition will count 10 wagons and will connect Tokyo with the region Tohoku in the northeast of the country.
When a train becomes poetry in motion
The E10 Shinkansen is not just a new chapter in Japan's railway system. It is a visionary project that combines sensitivity to nature, technical excellence and aesthetic perfection. In a world where rail transport often remains a mere means of getting from point A to point B, the E10 brings a different experience - one where the journey itself becomes the destination.
Key information about the project:
- Name: E10 Shinkansen bullet train
- Manufacturer: East Japan Railway Company (JR East)
- Design: Tangerine (UK)
- Start of testing: autumn 2027
- Getting started: by 2030
- Number of wagons: 10
- Color scheme: Tsugaru Green and Evening Elm
- Connection: Tokyo – Tohoku
