Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath experienced one of the world’s fastest trains during his official visit to Japan, taking a test ride on the country’s advanced superconducting magnetic levitation train in Yamanashi Prefecture on Thursday. The visit is part of his two-nation tour that followed engagements in Singapore, aimed at strengthening economic ties and exploring investment opportunities for Uttar Pradesh.
The Maglev ride was a major highlight of the Japan leg of the trip. Developed by the Central Japan Railway Company, the SC Maglev represents a breakthrough in rail technology. Unlike conventional trains, it uses powerful superconducting magnets to lift the coaches above the track, eliminating physical contact and friction. This allows the train to glide smoothly at extraordinary speeds while maintaining stability and safety.
During testing on the Yamanashi Maglev Line, the train set a world speed record of 603 km/h in 2015. Once operational, it is expected to run on the Chuo Shinkansen corridor, dramatically reducing travel time between Tokyo and Nagoya. Experts consider the system a benchmark for next-generation high-speed transportation due to its low noise, minimal vibration, and energy-efficient design.
Officials said the Chief Minister’s visit was not limited to observing advanced technology but focused on exploring how similar innovations could influence infrastructure development in Uttar Pradesh. The state has already invested heavily in expressways, metro networks, and regional rapid transit systems, and is seeking global partnerships to modernize mobility further.
Earlier in the day, Adityanath expressed gratitude to Japanese authorities and the Yamanashi leadership for strengthening bilateral relations and promoting cooperation in clean energy. He noted that the partnership reflects the long-term vision shared by former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi to deepen strategic ties between the two countries.
The Chief Minister also highlighted collaboration in green hydrogen, calling it a crucial step toward energy self-reliance. He referred to an ongoing initiative to develop IIT Kanpur as a Centre of Excellence for hydrogen technology, a move expected to support India’s clean energy ambitions.
Observers believe the Japan visit could open new avenues for cooperation in high-speed rail, smart mobility, sustainable transport, and industrial investment. Exposure to technologies like the SC Maglev may shape long-term planning for ultra-fast connectivity projects in India, particularly in rapidly growing states such as Uttar Pradesh.
The tour underscores a broader objective: positioning Uttar Pradesh as a destination for global investment while aligning its infrastructure development with cutting-edge international standards. By experiencing the Maglev firsthand, Adityanath signaled the state’s intent to adopt futuristic transport solutions that could transform intercity travel in the decades ahead.
Summary — Key Highlights:
Yogi Adityanath rode Japan’s SC Maglev train in Yamanashi during his official visit; the train uses magnetic levitation to exceed 600 km/h; the trip focused on strengthening India-Japan cooperation in transport and clean energy; Uttar Pradesh is exploring advanced mobility solutions; IIT Kanpur is being developed as a green hydrogen research hub.