Railway Business Act Enforcement Actions in Japan

On August 24–25, 2026, the Hokkaido Transport Bureau conducted a safety (security) audit of 一般社団法人なかふらの観光協会. As the audit identified matters requiring improvement, the Bureau instructed the association to take corrective measures regarding the items listed below. The association is requested to report the measures taken by October 15, 2026.

Shizuoka Railway Co., Ltd. was instructed by the Chubu Transport Bureau to take corrective measures following a safety (maintenance) audit conducted on June 17–18, Reiwa 8 (2026). The audit identified matters requiring improvement related to vehicle maintenance, including not performing certain inspection items/methods and not preserving certain inspection records. The company is requested to report the measures taken by October 1, Reiwa 8 (2026).

From June 9 to June 10, 2026 (Reiwa 8), the Kanto Transport Bureau conducted a safety audit of Ryutetsu Co., Ltd. As improvement items were identified, the company was instructed to take corrective measures regarding the following matters. The company was requested to report the measures taken by November 30, 2026.

On July 16–17, 2026, Ehime Prefecture Matsuyama City conducted a safety audit of the Matsuyama Shiroyama Ropeway and lift. As the audit identified matters requiring improvement, it was instructed to take corrective measures for the items below. The report on the measures taken is requested by September 28, 2026. 【Shikoku Transport Bureau】

On August 20, 2026, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism issued an administrative guidance to Tobu Railway Co., Ltd. under the Railway Business Act. The guidance states that, at Tobu Nikko Line Shin-Kanuma Station premises on the day in question, four staff members conducting vegetation-clearing work came into contact with a train, resulting in a fatal personal injury accident. The Ministry notes that the Transport Safety Committee is investigating the accident, and warns the company to identify the cause including underlying factors, take measures to prevent recurrence of similar accidents, and ensure railway safety. The company is requested to report the measures taken promptly in writing.

Administrative guidance was issued to 高尾登山電鉄株式会社 regarding improvements identified in a safety audit conducted from June 30 to July 2, Reiwa 8 (2026). The company was instructed to take corrective measures regarding December inspections under the “Single-track Fixed Circulation Type Special Cableway Maintenance Rules” (単線固定循環式特殊索道整備細則) Article 5, including recording measurements for brake device inspections (pad wear and the clearance interval when the pads are released). The company was requested to report the measures taken by September 7, Reiwa 8 (2026).

From May 25, 2026 to May 27, 2026, the Kanto Transport Bureau conducted a safety audit of Odakyu Hakone Co., Ltd. As improvement items were identified, the company was instructed to take corrective measures regarding the matters listed below. The company was requested to report the measures taken by August 13, 2026.

On June 23–24, 2026, the Hokuriku Shinetsu Transport Bureau conducted a safety audit of Hakuba Kanko Kaihatsu Co., Ltd. As the audit identified matters requiring improvement, the company was instructed to implement corrective measures for the items listed below. The company is requested to report the measures taken by August 1, 2026. The instruction includes strengthening the safety management system to ensure that, after establishing a system to accurately grasp on-site conditions (including but not limited to the following), the company regularly verifies the status of on-site operations, organizes issues, implements necessary improvements, and ensures the effectiveness of those improvements. Item 1: It was confirmed that the number of carriers (gondola lift cars) for the Happoone Gondola Lift had decreased, but the required change procedures had not been carried out. Therefore, the company was instructed to carry out the procedures under Article 12 of the Railway Business Act as applied pursuant to Article 38, and to take measures so that similar incidents do not occur again.

Administrative guidance was issued to 錦川鉄道株式会社 regarding safety audits conducted from May 19 to May 20, Reiwa 8 (2026). The authority identified matters requiring improvement and instructed the company to take corrective measures. The company was requested to report the measures taken by July 21, Reiwa 8 (2026).

On May 20, 2026 (Wed) and May 21, 2026 (Thu), the Chubu Transport Bureau conducted a safety audit of 奥飛観光開発株式会社. As the audit identified matters requiring improvement, the company was instructed to take corrective measures regarding the items listed below. The company is requested to report the measures taken by July 8, 2026.

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 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 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 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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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 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 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 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 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.

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 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.

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.

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 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 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 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 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 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 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.

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 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 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.

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.

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 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.

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 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, 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 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 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.

The Shikoku Cable Corporation was issued an administrative guidance by the Shikoku Transport Bureau following a safety audit conducted from July 16 to 18, 2025. The audit identified deficiencies in the maintenance regulations and inspection records of the Tairyuji Ropeway, requiring the company to revise these documents and ensure proper recording of inspection results by September 19, 2025.

Nagoya Rinkai Railway Co., Ltd. was subject to administrative guidance following a safety audit conducted on May 29-30, 2025. The audit identified that certain inspection procedures mandated by the Railway Maintenance Standards were not performed during inspections in 2019 and 2022. The company is instructed to investigate the root causes, implement corrective measures, and report by September 5, 2025.

The Kumamoto City transportation bureau was issued an administrative guidance on July 18, 2025, following multiple incidents including a vehicle collision at Kumamoto Castle and City Hall station on March 25, 2025. Despite ongoing improvement efforts and safety audits, deficiencies in operational procedures and safety management systems were identified, prompting further corrective instructions. Key issues include driver training verification, vehicle abandonment procedures, and pre-operation vehicle inspections.

On July 16, 2025, the Kobe City Transportation Bureau was issued an administrative guidance by the Kinki Transport Bureau following a safety audit. The audit found that some train drivers and assistant drivers had undergone incomplete body function tests, specifically regarding vision, yet were still assigned to operate trains. The bureau was instructed to implement corrective measures, verify the appropriateness of operational procedures, and prevent recurrence. Failure to comply or further violations may result in orders to improve business operations under relevant laws.

On June 13, 2025, the Chubu Regional Development Bureau issued administrative guidance to Yoro Railway Co., Ltd. regarding the improper conduct of a train driver who failed to properly conduct alcohol breath tests before and after duty, which was discovered on May 12, 2025. The guidance mandates the company to verify and improve alcohol testing procedures, record-keeping, and safety education for employees, and to strengthen safety management systems to prevent recurrence. The company must report the measures taken by July 14, 2025.

The Hokkaido Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide on May 23, 2025, following a safety audit conducted on April 24-25, 2025. The audit identified deficiencies in the maintenance and inspection procedures of cable car facilities, specifically regarding grounding resistance measurements and periodic magnetic particle inspections. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures and report by June 23, 2025.

On April 24, 2025, the company was subjected to a safety audit which identified deficiencies. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures by June 18, 2025, including aligning the lighting arrangements at the Sembayama Romance Lift with legal reporting requirements and ensuring procedural compliance across all cableway facilities.

The Chiba Prefectural Public Transportation Authority issued administrative guidance to Kominato Railway Co., Ltd. following a safety audit conducted from March 3 to March 5, 2025. The guidance outlines required improvements in inspection procedures, safety management systems, construction procedures, personnel training, and operational practices, with a report due by August 14, 2025.

The Japan Transport Safety Board issued administrative guidance to JR Hokkaido following multiple safety violations, including false reporting and unsafe conduct during track maintenance, which undermine transportation safety. JR Hokkaido is instructed to review and strengthen its safety management systems, conduct thorough investigations, and report progress by April 30, 2026.

The Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism conducted a safety audit of Seino Railway Co., Ltd. on December 24-25, 2024. The audit identified deficiencies in railway track inspections and vehicle maintenance procedures. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures by April 25, 2025, including root cause analysis and prevention strategies.

The Kumamoto City railway operator received administrative guidance following a vehicle collision near Kumamoto Castle and City Hall station on September 20, 2024, which injured six passengers and one driver. Despite ongoing efforts to improve safety and compliance with the Railway Operation Regulations, the incident occurred, causing concern over public trust. The authorities have issued a strict warning to investigate the cause and implement preventive measures, with a report required.

The Chubu Transportation Bureau issued administrative guidance to株式会社Ｐ．Ｉ．Ａ．ネクサス following a safety audit of their cable car facilities conducted on February 18-19, 2025. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures regarding unapproved modifications to their cable car systems and to report the incident of a cable car collision on February 14, 2025. The company was advised to investigate root causes and prevent recurrence, with a report due by April 25, 2025.

The Chubu Transportation Bureau issued administrative guidance to New Flow Corporation following a safety audit of their ropeway facilities conducted from February 25 to 27, 2025. The audit identified deficiencies in safety communication equipment and electrical inspections, requiring prompt corrective actions and reporting by April 25, 2025.

The Chubu Transportation Bureau issued administrative guidance to Takayama City following safety audits of the cable car facilities conducted from February 12 to 14, 2025. The guidance addresses incomplete electrical inspections and procedural violations related to the Yuzan First Quad Lift, requiring Takayama City to implement corrective measures and report by April 25, 2025.

The Chubu Transportation Bureau issued administrative guidance to Oigawa Railway Co., Ltd. following a safety audit conducted from October 7 to 9, 2024. The audit identified deficiencies in track and vehicle inspections, specifically the failure to inspect track material wear during switch inspections and exceeding inspection cycles for E34 electric locomotives. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures, including education, training, and system improvements, and to report actions taken by April 25, 2025.

The company '株式会社nation' was subject to administrative guidance following a safety audit on February 27-28, 2025. The audit identified two violations: unapproved type changes to safety equipment on the Kiso Fukushima triple lift and Kiso Fukushima pair lift, and overdue inspections for the Kiso Fukushima pair lift. The company is instructed to report corrective measures by April 24, 2025, and to ensure compliance with relevant laws, including the Railway Business Act and related ordinances.

The Nagano Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Yamada Farm Corporation following safety audits on February 13-14, 2025, identifying issues with lift device reporting, inspection cycles, and record-keeping, and requiring corrective measures by April 24, 2025.

The Hiroshima Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Aoi Techno Service Co., Ltd. following a safety audit of the Asayama Gondola Lift conducted on February 17-18, 2025. The company was instructed to improve safety measures, including ensuring operators and monitors do not leave their designated positions during operation and providing necessary training, with a report due by April 23, 2025.

The Kanto Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Utsunomiya Light Rail Co., Ltd. following a safety audit conducted on January 29-30, 2025. The audit identified deficiencies in safety management practices, including the creation and storage of instruction record books and the accuracy of fitness assessments for staff. The company is instructed to report corrective measures by April 21, 2025, and to strengthen its safety management system.

The Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism issued administrative guidance to Arai & Associates Co., Ltd. following a safety audit on February 12-13, 2025. The audit identified issues with the Alpine Brick No. 1 pair lift and the Kizunazawa Quad Lift safety equipment installation. The company is instructed to report corrective measures by April 17, 2025, and to ensure compliance with the Railway Business Act (Act No. 42 of 1981).

Fukushima Kotsu Co., Ltd. was issued an administrative guidance by the Tohoku Transport Bureau on March 13, 2025, following a safety audit conducted on November 21-22, 2024. The audit identified issues with personnel health examinations for train drivers, including non-compliance with legal standards and internal regulations. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures and report by April 14, 2025, ensuring proper health assessments and management systems to prevent recurrence.

The Chubu Transportation Bureau issued administrative guidance to Towa Kanko Corporation following a safety audit on January 22-23, 2025, due to incomplete electrical equipment inspections of cable car facilities, and instructed the company to implement corrective measures and report by April 14, 2025.

On January 23, 2025, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism conducted a safety audit of Hinoe Village. The audit identified areas needing improvement, particularly regarding inspections of cableway facilities. The village was instructed to implement corrective measures by April 14, 2025, including conducting necessary inspections and staff training to ensure proper maintenance and management of the facilities.

The Hokkaido Transport Bureau issued an administrative guidance to the Shiretoko Shari Town Tourism Association following a safety audit conducted on February 13-14, 2025. The audit identified deficiencies in inspection record-keeping for the special cable car system, requiring the association to implement corrective measures and report by April 10, 2025.

The Okinawa Urban Monorail Co., Ltd. was issued an administrative guidance by the Okinawa General Bureau following a safety audit conducted on February 3-4, 2025, which identified unperformed inspections, including the calibration of wind direction and wind speed meters as per the Railway Operation Regulations and electrical equipment standards. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures, including cause analysis and management system improvements, and to report by April 3, 2025.

On January 28-29, 2025, the Hokuriku Shinetsu Transport Bureau conducted a safety audit of Lifestyle Service Co., Ltd. in Yuzawa, Niigata. The audit identified deficiencies related to safety equipment additions at two lift stations without proper notification of facility modifications. The company was instructed to implement corrective measures and report by March 27, 2025, in accordance with the Railway Business Act Article 12 and 38.

The Hokkaido Transport Bureau issued an administrative guidance to Horonobe Town following a safety audit on February 6-7, 2025, identifying non-compliance with safety standards for a cable car facility. The town is instructed to implement corrective measures and report by March 27, 2025.

The Hokkaido Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Dynasty Resort Co., Ltd. following a safety audit on January 30, 2025. The company was instructed to improve inspection record-keeping, display safety notices, and complete procedural updates for cable car facility modifications, with a report due by March 17, 2025.

The China Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Agrihibagon Co., Ltd. following a safety audit conducted on January 16-17, 2025, regarding safety equipment on cable car facilities. The company was instructed to promptly address issues with the over-extension detection device for support cables and to establish a system for regular inspections and maintenance by March 11, 2025.

The Chubu Regional Development Bureau issued administrative guidance to Meichi Railway Co., Ltd. following a safety audit conducted from October 16 to 18, 2024. The audit identified deficiencies in the height of overhead communication lines at multiple level crossings and the lack of periodic inspections for electronic interlocking devices and uninterruptible power supplies at Yamaoka Station. The company is instructed to implement corrective measures, investigate root causes, and report by March 12, 2025.

The Hokkaido Transport Bureau issued an administrative guidance to Numata Town following a safety audit of its ropeway facilities conducted on January 14-15, 2025. The audit identified deficiencies in record-keeping of inspection results and in the training and documentation of ropeway staff. The town is instructed to implement corrective measures and report by March 5, 2025.

The Kyushu Regional Development Bureau issued administrative guidance to Kumamoto City regarding safety issues on its railway lines, including incidents of derailment and track expansion, and instructed to verify and improve safety management and prevent recurrence.

The Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism conducted a safety audit of Sangi Railway Co., Ltd. from September 24 to 26, 2024. The audit identified deficiencies in scheduled vehicle inspections related to brake and air system leak tests. The company is instructed to promptly complete the inspections, investigate root causes, implement preventive measures, and report by February 21, 2025.

The Hokuriku-Shinetsu Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Toyama Chihō Tetsudō Kabushiki Kaisha following a safety audit conducted from October 22 to 25, 2024. The audit identified deficiencies in the periodic inspection and maintenance of track switches from fiscal years 2021 to 2023, including exceeding maintenance limits and inadequate planning of corrective measures. The company is instructed to implement corrective actions, investigate root causes, and improve management systems, including staff education, by February 21, 2025.

The Yamanashi Prefectural Transport Bureau issued administrative guidance to Fuji Sanroku Electric Railway Co., Ltd. following a safety audit conducted from November 12 to 14, 2024. The guidance requires the company to improve safety management systems, including personnel fitness checks and driver qualification reports, by February 10, 2025.

The Yamaguchi-based Nishikawa Railway was issued an administrative guidance by the Chugoku Transport Bureau on January 6, 2025, due to a failure to properly preserve structural change records for tunnel facilities as required by the Railway Technical Standards Ordinance. The company was instructed to review and establish a management system to ensure continuous record-keeping, with a report due by February 5, 2026.