Railway Business Act Enforcement Actions in Japan

On March 6, 2026, a safety audit was conducted on Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture, revealing issues requiring improvement. The city was instructed to implement corrective measures by June 11, 2026, including establishing a system to accurately monitor on-site operations, conducting appropriate inspections of the Kiri-ga-mine First Romance Lift, and reporting any changes to inspection procedures. The audit was carried out under the Railway Business Act and related ministerial ordinances.

Fukui Railway Co., Ltd. was issued administrative guidance following a safety audit conducted from December 9 to 12, 2025. The audit identified multiple issues related to track maintenance, switch maintenance, railway facility inspections, and vehicle material modifications. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures, investigate root causes, and report by June 11, 2026.

The Kanto Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Kominato Railway Co., Ltd. following a safety audit conducted from March 3 to March 5, 2026. The audit identified deficiencies in track maintenance, particularly regarding significant elevation differences and drainage functions. The company was instructed to develop a comprehensive repair plan, including drainage and ballast replenishment, and to report on measures taken by July 28, 2026.

The Chubu Regional Development Bureau issued administrative guidance to Toyohashi Railway Co., Ltd. following a safety audit from November 10 to 12, 2025. The audit identified multiple compliance issues related to railway safety standards, track maintenance, station platform clearances, vehicle modifications, and driver fitness testing. Toyohashi Railway was instructed to implement corrective measures and report by May 29, 2026.

The Okinawa Urban Monorail Co., Ltd. was issued an administrative guidance by the Okinawa General Bureau following a safety audit conducted on February 2-3, 2026. The audit identified issues related to personnel fitness inspections and management oversight, requiring the company to implement corrective measures and report by May 14, 2026.

On February 20, 2026, the company was subjected to a safety audit which identified areas needing improvement. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures by May 8, 2026, including adhering to inspection schedules and safety management procedures as specified in the relevant regulations. The company was also advised to verify compliance with maintenance rules and to conduct necessary training to prevent recurrence.

On March 5, 2026, the company was subjected to a safety audit by the Hokuriku Shinetsu Transport Bureau, which identified areas needing improvement. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures by May 1, 2026, including establishing a system to accurately monitor on-site conditions, verify operational status regularly, and strengthen safety management. Specific issues included unreported modifications to safety equipment and incomplete ground resistance tests on certain ropeway facilities, with directives to undertake proper procedures and prevent recurrence.

The Chubu Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Hida Yui Corporation following safety audits on February 25 and 26, 2026, identifying deficiencies in the inspection records of the tension equipment of the ropeway facilities. The company is instructed to promptly conduct the necessary inspections and improve maintenance management systems to ensure proper safety compliance, with a report due by May 1, 2026.

On February 26-27, 2026, the company underwent safety audits which identified areas needing improvement. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures, report by April 30, 2026, and strengthen safety management systems, including procedures for unapproved modifications to cable car facilities, in accordance with the Railway Business Act.

On February 26 and 27, 2026, the company was subjected to safety audits which identified issues requiring improvement. The company was instructed to investigate the root causes, implement corrective measures, and report by April 30, 2026. Specifically, modifications to the Hirayu No.1 and No.2 pair lifts were made without following the procedures stipulated under the Railway Business Act, Article 12, which is also applied by Article 38 of the same law. The company must promptly comply with the proper procedures and prevent recurrence.

The company, Kashima Karuizawa Resort Co., Ltd., was subject to an administrative guidance by the Kanto Transport Bureau following a safety audit conducted on February 16-17, 2026. The audit identified discrepancies in inspection records related to the company's special cable car system, as specified in the Railway Business Act and related regulations. The company is instructed to review and revise its maintenance and inspection records by May 1, 2026, and to ensure proper documentation and maintenance practices going forward.

The Shizuoka District Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Oigawa Railway Co., Ltd. following a safety audit conducted in October and November 2025. The audit identified multiple deficiencies in railway facilities and maintenance practices, including discrepancies between construction plans and actual facilities, inadequate periodic inspections, and issues with vehicle and tunnel safety assessments. The company is instructed to investigate causes, implement corrective measures, and report by May 1, 2026, to prevent recurrence and ensure proper facility maintenance and safety compliance.

The Chubu Transportation Bureau issued administrative guidance to Hirayu no Mori Corporation following safety audits conducted on February 26 and 27, 2026. The company was found to have modified ropeway facilities without following proper procedures under the Railway Business Act, Article 12, which is applicable by analogy to Article 38. The company is instructed to promptly undertake corrective measures, including investigating root causes and preventing recurrence, and to report these measures by April 30, 2026.

On February 25, 2026, the Hokuriku-Shinetsu Transport Bureau conducted a safety audit of Kamihira Kanko Kaihatsu Co., Ltd. and identified areas requiring improvement. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures and report by April 30, 2026. The issues include unapproved modifications to cable car facilities and changes to operational rules without proper notification, in violation of the Railway Business Act and related regulations.

On February 26-27, 2026, the Hokuriku Shinetsu Transport Bureau conducted a safety audit of Oyama Kanko Kaihatsu Co., Ltd. and identified issues related to unapproved modifications to cable car facilities. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures by April 30, 2026, including establishing a system for regular verification of on-site operations and strengthening safety management. The violations involved changes to safety equipment and communication systems without proper procedures, in violation of the Railway Business Act Article 38 and related provisions.

The Shizuoka District Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Oigawa Railway Co., Ltd. following a safety audit conducted in October and November 2025. The audit identified multiple deficiencies in railway facilities and maintenance practices, including discrepancies with construction plans, inadequate periodic inspections, and issues with train and tunnel safety assessments. The company is instructed to investigate root causes, implement corrective measures, and report by May 1, 2026, to prevent recurrence.

The Chubu Transportation Bureau issued administrative guidance to Hida Yui Corporation following safety audits on February 25 and 26, 2026, identifying deficiencies in the inspection records of the tensioning equipment of the cable car system. The company is instructed to promptly conduct the necessary inspections and improve maintenance management systems by May 1, 2026, including investigation of root causes and preventive measures.

The company, Kashima Karuizawa Resort Co., Ltd., was subject to an administrative guidance following a safety audit conducted on February 16-17, 2026. The audit identified discrepancies in inspection records related to the company's special cableway regulations under the Railway Business Act. The company is instructed to review all maintenance rules and inspection records, implement necessary revisions, and ensure proper documentation of inspections by May 1, 2026.

On February 25, 2026, the Hokuriku Shinetsu Transport Bureau conducted a safety audit of Kamihira Kanko Kaihatsu Co., Ltd. and identified areas requiring improvement. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures by April 30, 2026, including establishing a system to accurately monitor on-site operations, verifying procedures for modifications to cable car facilities, and reporting on measures taken. The company was also advised to ensure that changes to safety regulations and technical standards comply with applicable laws to prevent recurrence.

On February 18, 2026, the Chubu Transport Bureau conducted a safety audit of Ikeda Town, Fukui Prefecture, and identified deficiencies in the inspection of cable car safety and electrical equipment, as well as procedural issues regarding modifications to the cable car facilities. The bureau has instructed the town to implement corrective measures, including thorough cause analysis and preventive actions, with a report due by April 30, 2026.

In January 2026, the Kishu Railway Co., Ltd. was subject to administrative guidance following a safety audit that identified areas needing improvement. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures by April 30, 2026, including establishing a system for regular verification of field operations, ensuring proper maintenance of track and electrical safety equipment, and providing training for operational staff. The guidance emphasizes strengthening safety management and compliance with relevant regulations.

On February 17, 2026, the Chubu Transport Bureau conducted a safety audit of Minami-Echizen Town. The audit identified issues related to the modification of ropeway facilities without proper procedures under the Railway Business Act. The town is instructed to implement corrective measures, investigate root causes, and report by April 30, 2026.

In January 2026, the Kishu Railway Company was subject to an administrative guidance following a safety audit that identified areas needing improvement. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures by April 30, 2026, including establishing a system for regular verification of field operations, ensuring proper maintenance of track and electrical safety equipment, and providing training for operational staff. The guidance emphasizes strengthening safety management and compliance with relevant standards.

On February 17, 2026, the Chubu Transportation Bureau conducted a safety audit of Minami-Echizen Town. The audit identified issues related to the modification of ropeway facilities without proper procedures under the Railway Business Act. The bureau has instructed the town to implement corrective measures, investigate root causes, and report by April 30, 2026.

The Tohoku Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to DMCaizu Corporation following a safety audit conducted on February 5-6, 2026. The audit identified issues with inspection cycles for the carrier grip device on a special single-line cable car system, exceeding the prescribed intervals, and missing records for some inspections. DMCaizu is instructed to review and modify inspection procedures to ensure safety and record-keeping by April 30, 2026.

On February 18, 2026, the Chubu Transportation Bureau conducted a safety audit of Ikeda Town, Fukui Prefecture, and identified deficiencies in inspection procedures and safety equipment management related to ropeway facilities. The town was instructed to implement corrective measures, including conducting missing inspections and complying with legal procedures, with a report due by April 30, 2026.

The company was subjected to a safety audit on February 5-6, 2026, which identified issues requiring corrective actions. The company is instructed to review and adjust inspection procedures for the cable car system, particularly the disassembly cycle of the grip device, and to report the measures taken by April 30, 2026.

The company, Yamman Co., Ltd., was subject to administrative guidance following a safety audit conducted on November 25-26, 2025. The audit identified issues including inadequate verification of brake system measurements and improper conduct of physical fitness tests for train operators. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures and report by April 27, 2026.

The company, Yamaman Co., Ltd., was subject to administrative guidance following a safety audit conducted on November 25-26, 2025. The audit identified issues including inadequate verification of brake system measurements and improper conduct of physical fitness tests for train operators. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures and report by April 27, 2026.

On February 12 and 13, 2026, the Hokuriku Shinetsu Transport Bureau conducted safety audits of Iou Arora Co., Ltd. and identified issues requiring improvement, particularly regarding inspection recordkeeping for five special cableways. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures and report by April 27, 2026.

The Nagano Prefectural Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Kitashiga Ryuou Co., Ltd. following safety audits on February 17 and 18, 2026. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures regarding unauthorized modifications to the Ryuou summit's third pair lift and failure to report changes to the special cableway operation rules. The company must report actions taken by April 27, 2026, and strengthen safety management systems to ensure ongoing compliance.

On February 5 and 6, 2026, the Hokuriku Shinetsu Transport Bureau conducted safety audits of Smile Resort Inc. in Yuzawa, Niigata. The audit identified areas needing improvement, including the installation of an anemometer on the No. 19 support of the first quad lift without proper facility modification procedures. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures and report by April 27, 2026, to strengthen safety management and ensure compliance with the Railway Business Act.

The company,株式会社北志賀竜王, was subject to administrative guidance following safety audits conducted on February 17 and 18, 2026. The audits identified issues requiring improvement, including unauthorized modifications to the ropeway facilities at the Ryuo Mountain summit and failure to notify changes to the special ropeway operation rules. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures, report by April 27, 2026, and strengthen safety management systems to prevent recurrence.

The Hokuriku-Shinetsu Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Smile Resort Co., Ltd. following safety audits conducted on February 5 and 6, 2026. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures, including proper procedures for the installation of a wind speed meter on the first quad lift support pole No. 19, and to report on these measures by April 27, 2026. The guidance emphasizes establishing a system to accurately grasp on-site conditions, regularly verify operational status, organize issues, and strengthen safety management systems to prevent recurrence of similar cases.

On February 12 and 13, 2026, the Hokuriku-Shinetsu Transport Bureau conducted safety audits of Iou Arora Co., Ltd. Following the audits, deficiencies were identified, particularly regarding inspection recordkeeping for five special cableways. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures and report by April 27, 2026, to strengthen safety management and ensure proper inspection documentation.

On January 27, 2026, an administrative guidance was issued to Nishi-Waga Town following a safety audit. The audit identified deficiencies related to the notification of amended regulations for cable car facilities and inspection procedures for a specific type of cableway. The town is instructed to implement corrective measures and report by April 23, 2026.

On January 27, 2026, the Tohoku Regional Development Bureau conducted a safety audit of Nishiwaga Town, which identified areas needing improvement. The town was instructed to implement corrective measures by April 23, 2026, including proper notification of amended regulations and ensuring thorough inspections of ropeway facilities. The town must also establish a system for planned inspections and maintenance to prevent recurrence.

On February 27, 2026, an administrative guidance was issued to Noboribetsu Golf Course Co., Ltd. following a safety inspection that identified contact between tree branches and lift carriers on two ropeway lifts. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures and report by April 23, 2026.

On February 27, 2026, the Hokkaido Transport Bureau conducted a safety audit of Noboribetsu Golf Course. The audit found contact between tree branches and the carriers on the Karurusu lifts. The company was instructed to take corrective measures and report by April 23, 2026, to ensure proper management of the ropeway facilities in accordance with the Ministerial Ordinance on Technical Standards for Ropeway Facilities.

On February 26, 2026, the Hokkaido Transport Bureau conducted a safety audit of Yuki Kamui Corporation and identified areas needing improvement related to the maintenance and inspection records of their single-wire fixed circular special cableway. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures and report by April 23, 2026.

On February 26, 2026, the Hokkaido Transport Bureau conducted a safety audit of Yuki Kamui Corporation, identifying areas needing improvement related to the maintenance and inspection records of their cable car facilities. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures and report by April 23, 2026.

On January 28, 2026, the Tazawako Kogen Lift Co., Ltd. was subjected to a safety audit by the Tohoku Transport Bureau, which identified deficiencies in record-keeping of temporary inspections for their ropeway facilities. The company was instructed to improve inspection record management and ensure regular maintenance and inspections. A report on the measures taken is required by April 20, 2026.

On January 28, 2026, the company was subjected to a safety audit which identified areas needing improvement. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures and report by April 20, 2026. Specifically, records of temporary inspections for the company's special cable cars were incomplete, and it was required to ensure proper documentation and maintenance procedures for the cable car facilities.

The company, Daito Kaihatsu Co., Ltd., was subject to administrative guidance following a safety audit conducted on February 3-4, 2026. The audit identified incomplete records of inspections for a special cableway system, specifically the start-up and January inspections. The company is instructed to review and revise their maintenance records and ensure proper documentation and maintenance by April 16, 2026.

The company, Daito Kaihatsu Co., Ltd., was subject to administrative guidance following a safety audit conducted on February 3-4, 2026. The audit identified incomplete records of inspections for a special single-track cableway, specifically the start-up and January inspections. The company is instructed to review and correct the records, ensure proper maintenance, and report the measures taken by April 16, 2026.

On January 27, 2026, the company was subject to an administrative guidance following a safety audit. The audit identified areas needing improvement, including the relocation of safety equipment at the Odake 4th pair lift D line terminal station without proper procedures. The company is instructed to report on corrective measures by April 13, 2026, and to strengthen safety management systems to prevent recurrence.

On January 27, 2026, the Hokuriku Shinetsu Transport Bureau conducted a safety audit of Shishi Corporation. The audit identified areas needing improvement, including the relocation of safety equipment at the Odake No. 4 pair lift D-line terminal station without proper procedures. The company is instructed to report corrective measures by April 13, 2026, and to strengthen safety management systems to prevent recurrence, in accordance with the Railway Business Act Article 12, which is applied by Article 38 of the same law.

The Hokkaido Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Sorachi Resort City Co., Ltd. following a safety audit conducted on February 2-3, 2026. The audit identified multiple deficiencies in the maintenance, inspection records, and operational procedures of the Greenland lifts and related cable car facilities. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures by April 13, 2026, including repairs, record management, staff training, and safety checks, to ensure compliance with the Railway Business Act and related regulations.

The Hokkaido Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Sorachi Resort City Corporation following a safety audit conducted on February 2-3, 2026. The audit identified multiple deficiencies in the maintenance, inspection records, and personnel qualifications of the company's ski lift operations, including failure to properly inspect and repair equipment, inadequate record keeping, and insufficient training. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures by April 13, 2026, and report on these actions. The guidance aims to ensure compliance with the Railway Business Act and related regulations concerning ski lift safety standards.

On January 16, 2026, the Hokuriku Shinetsu Transport Bureau conducted a safety audit of Shato Teru Izumizawa Corporation. The audit identified deficiencies in record-keeping for four cable car facilities, specifically the dates and contents of maintenance. The company was instructed to record these details and implement measures to prevent recurrence, with a report due by April 13, 2026.

On January 16, 2026, the Hokuriku Shinetsu Transport Bureau conducted a safety audit of Shato Teru Izumizawa Corporation. The audit found that all four cable car facilities lacked records of maintenance dates and details. The company was instructed to record maintenance dates and contents and to prevent recurrence, with a report due by April 13, 2026.

The Hokkaido Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Naganuma Town following a safety audit on February 17, 2026, identifying deficiencies in record-keeping and maintenance procedures for a fixed loop monorail system. The town was instructed to implement corrective measures by April 10, 2026, and report back.

The Hokkaido Transportation Bureau issued administrative guidance to Naganuma Town following a safety audit on February 17, 2026. The audit identified deficiencies in record-keeping for inspections of a single-wire fixed circular special cableway, and in the maintenance of wired telephone equipment on the second lift. Naganuma Town was instructed to implement corrective measures and report by April 10, 2026.

The Kusatsu Tourism Corporation was subject to administrative guidance following a safety audit conducted on January 27-28, 2026. The audit identified deficiencies in employee training records and management of safety education, requiring the company to improve its training management system and ensure all staff receive necessary training by March 27, 2026.

The Kusatsu Tourism Corporation was subject to administrative guidance following a safety audit conducted on January 27-28, 2026. The audit identified deficiencies in the implementation and record-keeping of education and training for staff involved in ropeway operations, as stipulated by relevant regulations. The company is instructed to improve management of training activities and ensure all staff receive necessary education and training by March 27, 2026, and to report on these measures.

Nagoya Guideway Bus Co., Ltd. received administrative guidance from the Chubu Transport Bureau following a safety audit conducted on September 9-10, 2025. The audit identified deficiencies in track inspection procedures, communication equipment inspections, and timetable change notifications. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures, investigate root causes including underlying factors, and report by March 24, 2026.

The Nagoya Guideway Bus Corporation was issued an administrative guidance by the Chubu Transportation Bureau following a safety audit on September 9-10, 2025, due to identified deficiencies in track inspection and communication equipment management, as well as failure to report timetable changes for March 2024 and 2025. The company is instructed to investigate causes, implement corrective measures, and report by March 24, 2026.

The Hokkaido Transport Bureau conducted a safety audit of Hakodate City from December 3 to 5, 2025, identifying areas needing improvement in vehicle inspections, operator training, and accident prevention measures. The bureau has issued administrative guidance requiring Hakodate City to implement corrective actions and report by March 18, 2026.

The Hokkaido Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Hakodate City following a safety audit from December 3-5, 2025, identifying deficiencies in vehicle inspections, driver training, and accident prevention measures. The city is instructed to implement corrective actions and report by March 18, 2026.

The Hokuriku-Shinetsu Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Toyama City following a safety audit conducted on October 22-23, 2025. The audit identified issues including the failure to implement track adjustments exceeding standards in the Toyama Station area during fiscal years 2024 and 2025. Toyama City is instructed to promptly address these issues, strengthen safety management systems, and report corrective measures by March 17, 2026.

The city of Toyama received administrative guidance following a safety audit conducted on October 22-23, 2025, which identified issues including exceeding track alignment standards at Toyama Station. The city is instructed to implement corrective measures by March 17, 2026, and to strengthen safety management systems to ensure proper track maintenance and operational oversight.

The Hokkaido Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Yubari Resort Operation Co., Ltd., following a safety audit conducted on January 14-15, 2026. The audit identified deficiencies in compliance with safety inspection records and maintenance procedures for the Swingers 2 lift. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures and report by March 17, 2026.

The company, 富山市地方鉄道株式会社, received administrative guidance from the Hokuriku Shinetsu Transport Bureau following a safety audit conducted from October 21 to October 24, 2025. The audit identified deficiencies in safety record-keeping for train inspections of the 0600 and 0600E series vehicles. The company is instructed to improve its safety management system, regularly verify operational conditions, and ensure inspection records are properly maintained by March 17, 2026.

The Hokkaido Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Yubari Resort Operation Co., Ltd. following a safety audit on January 14-15, 2026. The audit identified issues with inspection records of the Swingers 2 lift and the recording of standby drive performance. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures and report by March 17, 2026.

On October 21-24, 2025, the Toyama City Local Railway Co., Ltd. was subjected to a safety audit by the Hokuriku-Shinetsu Transport Bureau. The audit identified areas needing improvement, particularly in train inspection record-keeping for the 0600 and 0600E series vehicles. The company is instructed to establish a system for accurately recording inspection results, regularly verify operational practices, and strengthen safety management. A report on corrective measures is due by March 17, 2026.

The company, Man'yōsen Co., Ltd., received administrative guidance following a safety audit conducted between December 16 and 19, 2025. The audit identified areas requiring improvement, including the placement of ground beacons for automatic train stop devices at Nakaminato Station. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures and report by March 10, 2026, to strengthen safety management systems.

The Hokuriku-Shinetsu Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Man'yo Line Co., Ltd. following a safety audit conducted from December 16 to 19, 2025. The company was instructed to improve the placement and management of ground beacons for automatic train stop devices at Nakaminato Station, among other safety management enhancements. The company is required to report on the measures taken by March 10, 2026.

The Japan Transport Safety Board issued an administrative guidance to Tsugaike Gondola Lift Co., Ltd. on February 7, 2026, following a collision accident involving the gondola's carrier at the intermediate station on August 14, 2025, and subsequent incidents. The company is instructed to investigate the causes, implement preventive measures, and report the specific actions taken.

On February 7, 2026, the Hokuriku-Shinetsu Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Tsugaike Gondola Lift Co., Ltd. following a collision accident involving a carrier at the intermediate station of the downward line on August 14, 2025. The company was instructed to investigate the causes of the incident and to implement measures to prevent recurrence, including inspection and necessary actions for all cable car facilities and safety management systems.

The company, 二王子観光開発株式会社, was subject to administrative guidance following a safety audit conducted on December 25, 2025. The audit identified issues related to the addition of safety equipment at the 山麓停留場 of the 二王子岳第１クワッドリフト without proper procedural changes to the cableway facilities. The company is instructed to undertake corrective measures and report by March 4, 2026, to prevent recurrence, in accordance with the Railway Business Act and related regulations.

On December 25, 2025, an administrative guidance was issued to Niouji Kanko Kaihatsu Co., Ltd. following a safety audit. The audit found that additional safety equipment was installed at the summit station of the Niouji-dake No. 1 Quad Lift without proper procedural approval for the change in the cableway facility. The company is instructed to undertake corrective measures and report by March 4, 2026, to prevent recurrence, in accordance with the Railway Business Act and related regulations.

The Tohoku Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Yurihonjo Railway Co., Ltd. following a safety audit conducted from August 27 to 29, 2025. The audit identified areas needing improvement, including the failure to conduct special general inspections of the Maesugiyama Tunnel and incomplete roof inspections of train cars. The company is instructed to develop and implement corrective measures by March 3, 2026, including planning inspections, recording defect developments, and reviewing management systems to ensure compliance with relevant laws and standards.

The Japan Railway East (JR East) received an administrative guidance from the Kanto Transport Bureau on February 3, 2026, due to incidents affecting train safety and stability, including a power outage on January 16, 2026, and a wire disconnection at Ueno Station on January 30, 2026. Additionally, on February 2, 2026, an escalator smoke incident at Yachōbori Station on the Keiyo Line caused temporary service suspension, impacting many passengers. JR East is instructed to investigate the causes, implement preventive measures, and report promptly in writing.

The Japan Railway East (JR East) was issued an administrative guidance by the Kanto Transport Bureau on February 3, 2026, due to safety incidents including long train delays caused by power outages, a wire disconnection, and smoke from an escalator at Hatchobori Station, which affected many passengers. JR East is instructed to investigate the causes, implement preventive measures, and report promptly in writing.

The Akita Prefectural Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Yurihonjo Railway Co., Ltd. following a safety audit conducted from August 27 to 29, 2025. The audit identified areas needing improvement, including the failure to conduct a special general inspection of the Maesuyama Tunnel and incomplete roof inspections on vehicles. The company is instructed to develop and implement corrective measures by March 3, 2026, including planning and recording inspections, reviewing management systems, and ensuring compliance with relevant standards and regulations.

The Kanto Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Chichibu Railway Co., Ltd., following a safety audit conducted from November 10 to 12, 2025. The audit identified that some track displacement inspections in sidings were not conducted according to the standards. The company is instructed to promptly perform the inspections, address any exceeding standard values, and establish a system to ensure inspections are reliably carried out. The company must report the measures taken by March 31, 2026.

The Kanto Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Chichibu Railway Co., Ltd. following a safety audit conducted from November 10 to 12, 2025. The audit identified that some track displacement inspections on sidings did not comply with Article 47 of the Railway and Civil Engineering Facilities Implementation Standards. The company is instructed to promptly conduct the necessary inspections, address any exceeding of standard values, and establish a system to ensure thorough inspections. A report on the measures taken is required by March 31, 2026.

On January 16, 2026, around 3:50 AM, a power outage at Tamachi Substation caused long-term service disruptions on the Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, and Tokaido Line, among others. This incident resulted in passenger health issues and highlighted the need for investigation and preventive measures. The Kanto Transport Bureau issued an administrative guidance to JR East to thoroughly examine the causes, including underlying factors, and to implement measures to prevent recurrence, ensuring safe and stable railway operations. JR East is also required to report promptly on the measures taken and to verify the appropriateness of recovery and operational decisions, passenger rescue efforts, and information provision.

The Kanto Transportation Bureau issued administrative guidance to East Japan Railway Company following a power outage at Tamachi Substation on January 16, 2026, which caused long-term service disruptions on the Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, and Tokaido Line, and led to numerous passenger health issues. The incident was attributed to nighttime construction work causing the outage. The company was warned to investigate the root causes, implement measures to prevent recurrence, and review the appropriateness of recovery and operational decisions, as well as passenger assistance and information provision. A report on measures taken is requested.

On December 17, 2025, Yoro Railway Co., Ltd. received administrative guidance from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism for violations including operating trains without licensed drivers, unauthorized access to the crew room, improper handling of train doors by non-licensed personnel, inadequate key management for crew room access, and insufficient training of staff.

On December 17, 2025, Yoro Railway Co., Ltd. received administrative guidance from the authorities for violations including operating trains without licensed drivers, unauthorized entry into the crew room, improper door handling by non-licensed staff, inadequate key management, and insufficient staff training.

The Japan Transport Safety Board conducted a safety audit of Tsukuba Kanko Tetsudo Co., Ltd. from July 22 to July 24, 2025. The audit identified deficiencies in the periodic inspections of the steel cable railway and the normal cableway, including issues with inspection procedures and record management. The company has been instructed to implement corrective measures and report by January 30, 2026.

The Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism conducted a safety audit of Tsukuba Kanko Tetsudo Co., Ltd. from July 22 to 24, 2025. The audit identified deficiencies in the periodic inspections of the steel cable railway and the normal cableway, including issues with record-keeping and inspection procedures. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures and report by January 30, 2026.

The Choshi Electric Railway Co., Ltd. was subject to an administrative guidance following a safety audit conducted from September 10 to 12, 2025. The audit identified issues including unauthorized reconfiguration of train radio systems on the 22000 series trains and incomplete training for staff operating trains or vehicles. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures and report by January 26, 2026.

The Choshi Electric Railway Company was issued an administrative guidance by the Kanto Transport Bureau following a safety audit conducted from September 10 to 12, 2025. The audit identified issues including unauthorized reconfiguration of train radio systems and incomplete staff training on operational procedures. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures and report by January 26, 2026.

On November 16, 2025, JR West was issued an administrative guidance by the Kinki Transport Bureau due to an incident where a driver left the driver's seat while operating the Sanyo Shinkansen, raising safety concerns and affecting public trust.

On November 16, 2025, JR West's Sanyo Shinkansen experienced an incident where a train driver left the driver's seat during operation. The Kinki Transport Bureau issued an administrative guidance to address this safety concern, emphasizing the importance of understanding the root causes and preventing recurrence.

The Hokuriku-Shinetsu Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Tateyama Kurobe Kankō Corporation following a safety audit from September 8 to 11, 2025. The company was instructed to improve safety management systems, including establishing a system to accurately record inspection results for freight cars on the Tateyama Ropeway Railway line, and to report the measures taken by November 10, 2025.

The Japan Transport Safety Board conducted a safety audit of Tateyama Kurobe Kanko Corporation from September 8 to 11, 2025. The audit identified areas needing improvement, including the lack of inspection records for freight cars on the Tateyama Ropeway. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures and report by November 10, 2025, to strengthen safety management and ensure proper record-keeping as per the Railway Technical Standards Ordinance.

The Kanto Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Hitachinaka Seaside Railway Co., Ltd. following a safety audit from June 9-11, 2025, identifying deficiencies in track maintenance records, reporting of transportation disruptions, personnel health checks, and train operation procedures. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures and report by December 8, 2025.

The Kanto Transportation Bureau issued administrative guidance to Hitachinaka Seaside Railway Co., Ltd., following a safety audit from June 9-11, 2025, which identified multiple compliance issues related to track maintenance, accident reporting, personnel fitness checks, and train operation procedures. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures and report by December 8, 2025.

On October 5, 2025, Tokyu Corporation was issued an administrative guidance by the Kanto Transport Bureau following a train collision at Kajigaya Station on the Den-en-toshi Line, which caused long service suspensions and significant impact on passengers. The company is urged to investigate the cause, including underlying factors, and to implement measures to prevent recurrence, with a prompt written report required.

On October 5, 2025, at around 23:04, a train collision occurred inside the Kajigaya Station on the Den-en-toshi Line, involving a running train and a train in transit. This incident caused prolonged service suspensions on the Den-en-toshi and Oimachi lines, significantly impacting passengers. The cause is under investigation by the Transport Safety Board. Tokyu Corporation has been warned to investigate the underlying factors, implement measures to prevent recurrence, and ensure safe and stable train operations. A written report on measures taken is requested.

The Osaka District Transport Bureau conducted a safety audit of Mizuma Railway Co., Ltd. from July 31 to August 1, 2025, and identified issues requiring improvement related to building clearances at multiple stations. The company is instructed to develop and implement corrective measures, including investigating root causes and preventing recurrence, with a report due by October 20, 2025.

The Osaka Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Mizuma Railway Co., Ltd. following a safety audit conducted on July 31 and August 1, 2025. The audit identified issues with building clearances at multiple stations, requiring the company to develop and implement corrective measures by October 20, 2025, including investigating root causes and preventing recurrence.

The company, Watrasé Keikoku Railway Co., Ltd., received administrative guidance from the Kanto Transportation Bureau following a safety audit conducted from May 26 to May 28, 2025. The audit identified several deficiencies in facility maintenance, vehicle inspection procedures, driver training, and operational communication protocols. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures and report by October 17, 2025.

The company, Watrasu Keikoku Railway Co., Ltd., received administrative guidance following a safety audit conducted from May 26 to May 28, 2025. The audit identified deficiencies in tunnel special inspections, record-keeping practices, vehicle maintenance procedures, driver training, and communication protocols. The company is instructed to develop corrective measures and report by October 17, 2025.

The company, Hokuriku Kyuko Corporation, was subject to administrative guidance following a safety audit conducted from June 17 to June 19, 2025. The audit identified issues requiring improvement, including unauthorized modifications to railway facilities and changes to train schedules without proper procedures. The company is instructed to investigate root causes, implement corrective measures, and report by September 29, 2025.

The Hokuriku Kyuko Corporation was issued an administrative guidance by the North Japan Transport Bureau following a safety audit conducted from June 17 to June 19, 2025. The audit identified issues related to unauthorized modifications of railway facilities and changes to train schedules without proper procedures. The company is instructed to investigate the root causes, implement corrective measures, and report by September 29, 2025.

The Chubu Regional Development Bureau issued administrative guidance to Akichi Railway Co., Ltd. following a report of misconduct involving a train driver who submitted falsified alcohol test records and operated a train without proper alcohol testing after a positive result. The guidance includes directives for corrective measures to ensure compliance with safety standards and proper driver suitability assessments.