Japan's speedy, spotless Shinkansen bullet trains turn 60

Japan's iconic Shinkansen bullet trains turn 60 on October 1. High-speed Shinkansen trains began running between Tokyo and Osaka in 1964, heralding a new era for rail travel as Japan grew into an economic superpower after its World War II defeat.

Each day nearly a quarter of a million passengers ride the Tokaido Shinkansen line, which stretches from Tokyo past Mount Fuji to Hakata around five hours away. JR Central said it has never had an accident resulting in death or injury on the bullet train, even in a country where earthquakes, typhoons and heavy snow are common.