[JP] Local Understanding and Cost Control Seen as Essential for Chuo Shinkansen Progress

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[JP] Local Understanding and Cost Control Seen as Essential for Chuo Shinkansen Progress

Source: Nikkei Editorial
Original title:
リニアは地域理解を難事業実現に生かせ
Date: July 8, 2026, 19:05
Original language: Japanese
Web link: https://www.nikkei.com/nkd/company/arti ... =9022&ba=3
Accessed: July 8, 2026

Shizuoka Governor Yasutomo Suzuki’s approval of construction in the Shizuoka section moves the Chuo Shinkansen maglev project forward after long delays caused by environmental concerns. JR Central repeatedly explained its environmental measures, and progress in local understanding became the basis for Suzuki’s decision.

With work now expected to begin in the only unstarted section between Tokyo/Shinagawa and Nagoya, expectations are rising for the realization of a major transport artery tied to Japan’s growth. The project remains an unprecedented large-scale undertaking with difficult construction expected in many areas. JR Central must continue efforts to overcome civil-engineering and cost challenges.

The approval comes nine years after former Shizuoka Governor Heita Kawakatsu opposed construction in 2017 over water issues in the Oi River basin. The delay again showed how difficult it is to gain local consent for a large project involving many municipalities and residents.

The Southern Alps Tunnel, including the Shizuoka section, is considered the greatest challenge. After announcing approval, Suzuki said: “[Translated quote] Through the monitoring system, we will continuously check the construction work and dispel residents’ anxieties and concerns.”

The Shinagawa–Nagoya route is unusual infrastructure, with about 86% of the line running through tunnels. The opening, expected in 2036 or later, remains uncertain. Problems have already occurred, including falling groundwater levels during construction in Mizunami City, Gifu Prefecture. JR Central needs to further improve its technology for difficult construction, and when environmental problems arise, it must face residents’ concerns sincerely and disclose causes and countermeasures carefully.

Construction costs are another major issue. In October 2025, JR Central announced that the total cost of the Shinagawa–Nagoya section was expected to double from the original estimate to ¥11 trillion. The estimate includes future price increases, but unexpected events such as worsening conditions in the Middle East could further raise costs for materials, energy, and construction.

Stable management will require strict construction cost control and greater efficiency in existing businesses such as the Tokaido Shinkansen. JR Central also borrowed ¥3 trillion through the national Fiscal Investment and Loan Program to support early extension to Osaka. Continuous examination of the project’s economic viability is essential.

If completed, the maglev line will sharply reduce travel times and bring benefits to the Japanese economy. Although JR Central is building it as a private company with its own investment, the project is national in scale and deeply connected with Japan’s future. It should proceed steadily with public understanding and consent.