Abstract
In July 2022, a study group of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism announced a proposal regarding JR’s local lines, and the earnings and expenditures of JR companies by route were also announced. This research aims to analyze the issues affecting local railway lines by collecting data on factors such as convenience, management balance, and changes in the number of users for local railway lines nationwide. The findings demonstrate that JR lines face distinct challenges, differing from those of local private railways and third-sector railways. Additionally, it is observed that local railways, which have collaborated with local governments, exhibit higher levels of service and better business conditions than JR. Lastly, based on the above, this study provide concrete evidence that the involvement of local governments in JR’s local lines can enhance service levels and financial performance, and that a mutually beneficial revitalization approach for both JR and local governments is achievable.
