Jōetsu Shinkansen

Infobox rail line
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name = Jōetsu Shinkansen
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caption = Jōetsu Shinkansen bilevel E1 series train
type = Shinkansen
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locale = Japan
start = Tokyo
end = Niigata
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open = 15 November 1982
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owner = JR East
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depot = Niigata
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gauge = 1,435 mm
el = 25 kV AC, overhead catenary
speed = 240 km/h
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map_state = showThe nihongo|Jōetsu Shinkansen|上越 新幹線 is a high-speed railway line connecting Tokyo and Niigata, Japan, via the Tōhoku Shinkansen, operated by the East Japan Railway Company.

The program was initiated in 1971 by Niigata-born prime minister Tanaka Kakuei. Trial runs over the line began in November 1980, reaching a record 210 km/h in 1981. Regular service began on 15 November 1982. The line was initially planned to terminate at Shinjuku Station, but economic considerations pushed JNR to merge the line with the existing Tōhoku Shinkansen line at Ōmiya.

In September 1991, a 400 Series Shinkansen train set a speed record of 345 km/h on the Jōetsu Shinkansen line, and in December 1993, the STAR21 experimental train managed 425 km/h. The maximum speed for regular services on the line is currently 240 km/h.

Trains and services

* "Toki" (200 Series)
* "Max Toki" (E1 Series, E4 Series)
* "Tanigawa" (200 Series) - Commenced October 1997
* "Max Tanigawa" (E1 Series, E4 Series) - Commenced October 1997

Discontinued services

* "Asahi" - Discontinued December 2002
* "Max Asahi" - Discontinued December 2002

tations

There is also a 1.8 km spur from Echigo-Yuzawa to Gala-Yuzawa Station, which is used in the winter months to bring passengers to a nearby ski resort.