Exploring Sustainable and Safe Public Transportation in Japan

On September 7, 2026, the Institute of Transport Economics in Shinjuku, Tokyo, will release the latest issue of its professional journal, "Transportation and Economy." This issue focuses on the vital topic of "Safe and Secure Public Transportation."

Public transportation plays a crucial role in daily life, from commuting to school and work to healthcare, shopping, and travel. Given the importance of these services, the safety of transporting people and goods is paramount. However, achieving high safety standards is not something that can be taken for granted.

To facilitate this discussion, this month's issue features various perspectives through a roundtable discussion with experts from Nishi-Nippon Railroad, interviews with stakeholders from Aoi Mori Railway and Yamate Motors, and scholarly articles examining the evolving nature of safety in transportation.

Roundtable Discussion

The roundtable brings together influential figures including Mr. Kawashita from Nishi-Nippon Railroad, Professor Shuto from Rikkyo University, Professor Hara from Kansai University, and Professor Masako from Kobe University. The discussion dives deep into Nishi-Nippon Railroad's strategies for ensuring safety and creating a supportive work environment. They tackle challenging questions about costs associated with maintaining safety standards and contemplate ways to make safety sustainable in public transport.

Aoi Mori Railway's Approach

In an interview with Mr. Higashi from Aoi Mori Railway, insights are shared on the company's initiatives aimed at safeguarding employee health while addressing regional challenges. This includes strategies for snow removal during winter and preparedness for earthquake-related disasters, underscoring the company's dedication to resilience.

Yamate Motors' Unique Perspectives

Interviewee Ms. Okubo from Yamate Motors opens up about her experiences as a taxi driver, sharing challenges and fears faced on the job. She discusses advancements in technology that enhance safety and security for both drivers and passengers. Additionally, she sheds light on issues like the “customer harassment” problem and offers contrasts with practices observed abroad from a female perspective.

Broader Context of Public Transportation Safety

Beyond individual interviews and discussions, this issue features articles addressing the historical context of safety and the changing trends in advertising that touch upon public perception of transport safety. As public transport stakeholders, readers are encouraged to reflect critically on what safety and security mean in our current landscape.

In the latter half of the journal, various serialized columns are presented, featuring renowned authors from the transportation industry. Each article is intended to engage readers in diverse topics related to transport while highlighting essential safety elements that require ongoing attention.

Ongoing Series and Features

The publication regularly includes a series titled “The Current State of Transportation,” which in this issue features Professor Kita from Kobe University. His article explores a sustainable solution to transportation gaps in rural areas, illustrated with a case study from Innoshima Town in Ehime Prefecture, focusing on ride-sharing initiatives.

Additionally, journalist Ohsaka revisits the enchanting realm of tourist trains in Japan, focusing on the Sanriku Railway, known for its unique offerings designed to attract both locals and tourists. Through personal experiences and insights, the article provides a refreshing perspective on how robust regional transport services contribute to community engagement and tourism.

This issue not only serves as a call for better safety measures but also presents a comprehensive resource for understanding the current transportation discourse in Japan. Readers are invited to purchase the journal and engage with the content online via the official website or Amazon, ensuring they stay informed on critical developments in the world of transportation safety.

How to Purchase

The latest issue of "Transportation and Economy" can be purchased through the Institute's homepage or via Amazon. In addition, selected bookstores like Shosen Grande in Jimbocho Station and Shosen Book Tower in Akihabara also stock the journal, subject to availability.

For more information on the journal and its updates, visit the official website here and follow them on X here.