Tokaido Shinkansen Suspends Operations Between Tokyo and Shizuoka Following Earthquake in Yamanashi

Central News Agency (CNA), Tokyo, June 26 – A magnitude 5.6 earthquake struck Yamanashi Prefecture this evening, recording a maximum seismic intensity of 6-lower. Following the tremor, the Tokaido Shinkansen’s seismic safety system was automatically triggered. As a precautionary measure to ensure operational safety, JR Central has announced a full suspension of service for both northbound and southbound trains between Tokyo and Shizuoka stations.

JR Central reported that the safety mechanism halted trains immediately after the earthquake, and safety inspections of tracks and related facilities are currently underway. There is no confirmed timeline for the resumption of services, as further checks on equipment and infrastructure integrity are required.

Regarding energy infrastructure, Chubu Electric Power stated that the Hamaoka Nuclear Power Plant, located in Omaezaki, recorded a seismic intensity of 2. Initial inspections indicate that all equipment is operating normally with no earthquake-related anomalies detected.

The earthquake occurred at 10:28 PM local time with an epicenter in the eastern part of Yamanashi Prefecture and the Fuji Five Lakes region at a depth of approximately 20 kilometers. No tsunami warning has been issued. Significant shaking was reported across the Tokyo metropolitan area, Kanagawa, and Shizuoka, while authorities continue to assess the situation for potential damage or casualties.