Taiwan High Speed Rail's New Generation Train Unveiled, Built by Taiwanese and Japanese Artisans
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Taiwan High Speed Rail unveiled its first new-generation N700ST train, manufactured in Japan.
- The launch ceremony in Japan was attended by notable figures, including the widow of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
- The new trains symbolize the friendly ties between Taiwan and Japan, with local landmarks in Kaohsiung set to be illuminated in celebration.
Taiwan High Speed Rail celebrated the unveiling of its first new-generation N700ST train, a product of meticulous craftsmanship by Taiwanese and Japanese professionals. The maiden train rolled out from Hitachi's Hikoso factory in Japan on July 30, marked by a grand ceremony attended by a large contingent of Japanese media and dignitaries. Among the notable attendees was Akie Abe, widow of the late former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who traveled from Tokyo for the event.
The ceremony, co-hosted by Taiwan High Speed Rail Chairman Shieh Che-hsin and Giuseppe Marino, CEO of Hitachi's Railway Systems business, highlighted the collaborative spirit between the two nations. The N700ST's sleek design was showcased on a distinctive stage, complemented by an LED screen displaying the train's journey from Japan and its eventual arrival in Taiwan, traversing iconic landmarks.
The new train represents more than just a mode of transport; it embodies the strong bond between Taiwan and Japan. Footage of the manufacturing process and scenes of Taiwanese and Japanese engineers celebrating together underscored the shared effort and friendship. To welcome the N700ST, Kaohsiung City will illuminate several key locations, including Central Park MRT station, Love River, and the Pier-2 Art Center, with high-speed rail's signature orange light from July 30 to August 16.
This train is not only a vehicle meticulously crafted by Taiwanese and Japanese professionals, but also a symbol of the consolidated friendly spirit between Taiwan and Japan.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.