Day 3: East Japan Railway Company, Japan International Cooperation Agency and Tokyo Metro Museum

The day started very gloomy. We were greeted with light rains as we headed on our first destination of the day: The East Japan Railway Company (JR-EAST). The JR-EAST is a major passenger railway company in Japan and is the largest of the seven Japan Railways Group companies. Before we started the tour around the facilities, we had briefing on how the company provides comfort and efficiency to its commuters. A compelling video of the history of JR-EAST was shown including its extensive service all throughout Japan. As I look around the company, I cannot conceal my excitement of what’s in store for us after this trip. First, we went see the machineries of train: its parts and how it works. We have observed the attaching and removing of bogeys (the structure below train car that holds wheels) including the pantographs—an apparatus mounted on the roof of an electric train, tram or electric bus to collect power through contact with an overhead line. We also had a glimpse of how the trains were being cleaned and checked to make certain that they are still of great use for the commuters. Alongside with this, we have learned that most of the used trains of JR-EAST were shipped to Thailand. Indeed, the JR-EAST company has shown competence when it comes to its service to all Japanese. This is something that Philippines needs to develop in the long run.

On our second destination, we went to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). JICA is a governmental agency that coordinates Official Development Assistance for the government of Japan. It is chartered with assisting economic and social growth in developing countries, and the promotion of international cooperation. In our first step, one cannot deny the amusement as we were welcomed with cube seats that featured the 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) for 2030. We also grasped the plastic segregation of Japan and how tight their environmental policy is through an exhibit about the management of plastic waste. It is also a plus that after the tour, we were able to try on indigenous clothing from different parts of the world. JICA has been very charitable to developing countries including the Philippines. In fact, JICA’s work in the country spans more than six decades. According to its website, “JICA in the Philippines supports inclusive and dynamic development anchored on key pillars: achieving sustainable economic growth, overcoming vulnerability, and peace and development in Mindanao.”

Finally, we dropped by the Tokyo Metro Museum. It is a transportation museum with interactive exhibits exploring the history of Tokyo's subway network. There are various effective activities that are for kids and as well as adults. It is a perfect way to understand better the development of Tokyo’s train system. The museum was built with the hope that students and the younger generation, and many people, will further their understanding of the Subway. From the history of the subway to the latest technologies, you can learn much in this “look, touch, move” interactive museum.

Our 3rd day was jam-packed with learning and fun. It gave us a different perspective of the technology of Japan through exploring its train system that is truly world-class. More than that, it also left us with great impression that despite of how developed Japan is, their care for the environment is unparalleled and optimum. With this, Japan really is an epitome of a near-perfect country which is centered in progress and sustainability.