新幹線を英語で説明・紹介するための基本情報と、英会話に役立つ表現をシンプルでわかりやすい英語で紹介します。
英会話ダイアローグ・関連情報・10の質問を通して、新幹線に関する英語表現を学びます。
英語
英会話ダイアローグを読む前に知っておくと良い前提知識と情報です。
- 新幹線の基本情報
- 日本の高速鉄道で、1964年に最初の路線が開業、
- 最高時速320kmで走行
- 東京、大阪、京都などの主要都市だけでなく、地方都市や観光地も結ぶ広範囲な路線
- 普通車、グリーン車、グランクラスなど、クラスに応じて座席の快適さが異なる
- 新幹線の魅力と特徴
- 正確性：遅延はほぼなく、平均遅延時間は1分未満
- 安全性：地震感知システムなどにより、開業以来致命的な事故はゼロ
- 快適性：広い座席や静かな車内でリラックスできる環境
- 観光資源：富士山などの美しい景色を楽しめる
- 環境への配慮：エネルギー効率が高く、CO2排出量が少ない
- 新幹線がもたらす影響
- 観光への貢献：観光地へのアクセスを改善し、外国人観光客にも人気
- 地域経済の活性化：地方都市と大都市を結び、経済活動を支援
- ビジネス利用：速さと信頼性から、出張の際に頻繁に利用される
- 国際的な評価：海外の高速鉄道システムのモデルとして注目される
2人が新幹線について話しています。
新幹線の歴史、速さ、正確性、安全性、快適性、そして観光やビジネスでの利用などを話題にしています。
会話 / dialogue
Hey Key, I’ve been hearing a lot about the Shinkansen lately. It seems amazing. Can you tell me more about it?
Of course! The Shinkansen is one of Japan’s most impressive achievements. It’s a high-speed train that connects most major cities across Japan. The first one, the Tokaido Shinkansen, started running in 1964, just in time for the Tokyo Olympics.
1964? That’s a long time ago. But even now, it seems so modern. How fast can it go?
The fastest ones can reach speeds of up to 320 kilometers per hour. What’s even more impressive is how smooth and quiet the ride is, even at that speed.
Wow, that’s incredible. And they’re known for being on time, right?
Absolutely. The Shinkansen is famous for its punctuality. The average delay is less than a minute, which is unbelievable when you think about how many trains run every day.
That’s insane. What about safety? I’ve heard it’s one of the safest transportation systems in the world.
That’s true. Since it started almost 60 years ago, there have been no fatal accidents. It has advanced safety systems, like earthquake detectors that automatically stop trains if a quake is detected.
Amazing. It sounds like something I have to experience. Are the trains comfortable?
Very. Even the standard seats are spacious with lots of legroom. If you want to upgrade, you can try the Green Car or Gran Class for more luxury, like wider seats and extra amenities.
I’d love to try the Gran Class someday. Do you think it’s worth it?
Definitely, especially for a long journey. You’ll feel like you’re in first class on an airplane. But even in regular class, it’s a great experience.
I’m also interested in the scenery. Can you see anything special from the Shinkansen?
Yes! One of the highlights is seeing Mount Fuji when you travel between Tokyo and Osaka. It’s especially beautiful on a clear day.
That sounds amazing. Do tourists use the Shinkansen a lot?
Yes, it’s very popular among tourists. Many use the JR Pass, which allows unlimited rides on most Shinkansen trains. It’s perfect for exploring Japan.
That’s good to know. What about locals? Do they use it often too?
Definitely. Businesspeople use it for work trips because it’s so fast and reliable. Families and students also use it for vacations or visiting relatives.
It really seems like the backbone of Japan. I’ve heard it also helps rural areas, right?
Yes, the Shinkansen connects smaller cities and towns to big cities like Tokyo and Osaka. This helps boost tourism and local economies.
That’s impressive. It sounds like it’s not just transportation—it’s a big part of Japan’s culture and economy.
Exactly. The Shinkansen is a symbol of Japanese innovation and hospitality. When you’re ready, we should plan a trip!
Let’s do it! I want to experience the speed, the comfort, and of course, see Mount Fuji.
You’ll love it. The Shinkansen is truly a ride to remember.
関連情報 / related information
「新幹線」について、理解を深めるための「英語での関連情報」です。
新幹線
Introduction to the Shinkansen
The Shinkansen, also called the bullet train, is Japan’s high-speed railway system. It connects major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. The first Shinkansen line, called the Tokaido Shinkansen, started operating in 1964. It was opened just before the Tokyo Olympics to show Japan’s advanced technology to the world. Today, the Shinkansen is known for its speed, safety, and comfort, making it a symbol of Japan’s progress.
Speed and Punctuality
One of the most amazing features of the Shinkansen is its speed. The fastest trains can travel up to 320 km/h, allowing passengers to move quickly between cities. For example, the trip from Tokyo to Osaka takes only about 2.5 hours. Another great point is its punctuality. The average delay of a Shinkansen is less than one minute. This makes it very reliable for both tourists and businesspeople.
Safety and Comfort
The Shinkansen is also famous for its safety. Since it started in 1964, there have been no fatal accidents. Advanced technology, such as earthquake detection systems, helps keep the trains safe. In addition to safety, the Shinkansen provides a comfortable ride. The seats are spacious, and the cars are quiet and clean. For more luxury, passengers can choose the Green Car or Gran Class, which offer larger seats and extra services.
Tourism and Local Benefits
The Shinkansen is not only for traveling between big cities; it also helps connect small towns and rural areas. This supports local tourism and economy. Many international tourists use the JR Pass, which allows unlimited rides on the Shinkansen and other JR trains. It’s a great way to explore Japan and visit famous spots like Mount Fuji, which can be seen from the train on clear days.
Conclusion
The Shinkansen is more than just a train—it’s a key part of Japanese life and culture. It combines speed, safety, and comfort with environmental friendliness. The Shinkansen also connects people and places, helping Japan’s economy and tourism. For anyone visiting Japan, riding the Shinkansen is an unforgettable experience and a great way to discover the country.
10の質問 / 10 questions
「新幹線」について、理解を深めるための「英語での10の質問」です。
1: What is the Shinkansen?
The Shinkansen is Japan’s high-speed railway system, also known as the bullet train. It connects major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
2: When did the Shinkansen first start operating?
The first Shinkansen line, the Tokaido Shinkansen, began operation in 1964, just before the Tokyo Olympics.
3: How fast does the Shinkansen go?
The Shinkansen can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h, making it one of the fastest trains in the world.
4: Why is the Shinkansen famous for punctuality?
The Shinkansen is very reliable and has an average delay of less than one minute due to advanced scheduling and management systems.
5: Is the Shinkansen safe?
Yes, the Shinkansen is one of the safest transportation systems in the world. Since it started, there have been no fatal accidents thanks to advanced safety features like earthquake detection systems.
6: What are the seating options on the Shinkansen?
The Shinkansen offers different seating options, including Standard Class, Green Car, and Gran Class, which provide increasing levels of comfort and luxury.
7: Can you see Mount Fuji from the Shinkansen?
Yes, passengers traveling between Tokyo and Osaka can see Mount Fuji on clear days, which is a popular highlight of the trip.
8: What is the JR Pass, and how does it relate to the Shinkansen?
The JR Pass is a special ticket for international tourists that allows unlimited travel on most Shinkansen and JR trains. It is a cost-effective way to explore Japan.
9: How does the Shinkansen help rural areas?
The Shinkansen connects small towns and rural areas to major cities, supporting tourism and boosting local economies.
10: Why is the Shinkansen environmentally friendly?
The Shinkansen uses energy-efficient technology and produces less CO2 compared to cars and airplanes, making it an eco-friendly transportation option.
和訳付
会話 / dialogue
Hey Key, I’ve been hearing a lot about the Shinkansen lately. It seems amazing. Can you tell me more about it?
キー、新幹線のことを最近よく聞くんだ。すごく魅力的だね。詳しく教えてくれる？
Of course! The Shinkansen is one of Japan’s most impressive achievements. It’s a high-speed train that connects most major cities across Japan. The first one, the Tokaido Shinkansen, started running in 1964, just in time for the Tokyo Olympics.
もちろんだよ！新幹線は日本の最も素晴らしい成果のひとつだ。日本中の主要都市を結ぶ高速鉄道なんだ。最初の東海道新幹線は1964年に運行を開始して、東京オリンピックに間に合ったんだよ。
1964? That’s a long time ago. But even now, it seems so modern. How fast can it go?1964年？
ずいぶん昔だね。でも今でもすごく近代的に見えるよ。どれくらい速いの？
The fastest ones can reach speeds of up to 320 kilometers per hour. What’s even more impressive is how smooth and quiet the ride is, even at that speed.
一番速いものは時速320キロに達するんだ。それに加えて、その速さでもすごくスムーズで静かなんだよ。
Wow, that’s incredible. And they’re known for being on time, right?
すごいね。それに時間通りに運行することで有名だよね？
Absolutely. The Shinkansen is famous for its punctuality. The average delay is less than a minute, which is unbelievable when you think about how many trains run every day.
その通りだよ。新幹線は時間の正確さで有名だ。毎日たくさんの列車が運行しているのに、平均遅延は1分未満なんだ。
That’s insane. What about safety? I’ve heard it’s one of the safest transportation systems in the world.
信じられないね。安全性はどう？世界で最も安全な交通手段の一つだって聞いたことがあるよ。
That’s true. Since it started almost 60 years ago, there have been no fatal accidents. It has advanced safety systems, like earthquake detectors that automatically stop trains if a quake is detected.
本当だよ。約60年前に運行を開始して以来、致命的な事故は一度もないんだ。地震を感知して列車を自動的に停止させるような高度な安全システムがあるからね。
Amazing. It sounds like something I have to experience. Are the trains comfortable?
すごいね。絶対に体験してみたいな。列車は快適なの？
Very. Even the standard seats are spacious with lots of legroom. If you want to upgrade, you can try the Green Car or Gran Class for more luxury, like wider seats and extra amenities.
とても快適だよ。普通席でも広々としていて足元に余裕があるよ。もっと贅沢を楽しみたいなら、グリーン車やグランクラスにアップグレードしてみるといいよ。広い座席や特別なサービスがあるんだ。
I’d love to try the Gran Class someday. Do you think it’s worth it?
いつかグランクラスを試してみたいな。それって価値があると思う？
Definitely, especially for a long journey. You’ll feel like you’re in first class on an airplane. But even in regular class, it’s a great experience.
間違いなくあるよ。特に長距離の旅ならね。飛行機のファーストクラスにいるような気分になるよ。でも普通席でも素晴らしい体験だよ。
I’m also interested in the scenery. Can you see anything special from the Shinkansen?
景色にも興味があるんだ。新幹線から特別なものが見られるの？
Yes! One of the highlights is seeing Mount Fuji when you travel between Tokyo and Osaka. It’s especially beautiful on a clear day.
あるよ！東京と大阪の間を走るときに富士山が見えるんだ。特に晴れた日には本当に美しいよ。
That sounds amazing. Do tourists use the Shinkansen a lot?
それは素晴らしいね。観光客も新幹線をよく利用するの？
Yes, it’s very popular among tourists. Many use the JR Pass, which allows unlimited rides on most Shinkansen trains. It’s perfect for exploring Japan.
うん、とても人気があるよ。多くの観光客がJRパスを使っているんだ。それを使えばほとんどの新幹線に乗り放題だから、日本中を探索するのに最適だよ。
That’s good to know. What about locals? Do they use it often too?
それは便利だね。地元の人たちはどう？彼らもよく使うの？
Definitely. Businesspeople use it for work trips because it’s so fast and reliable. Families and students also use it for vacations or visiting relatives.
もちろんだよ。ビジネスの人たちは速さと信頼性があるから仕事の出張で使うし、家族や学生も旅行や親戚を訪ねるためによく利用しているよ。
It really seems like the backbone of Japan. I’ve heard it also helps rural areas, right?
本当に日本の基盤みたいだね。地方にも役立っているって聞いたことがあるけど、本当？
Yes, the Shinkansen connects smaller cities and towns to big cities like Tokyo and Osaka. This helps boost tourism and local economies.
そうだよ。新幹線は小さな都市や町を東京や大阪のような大都市とつないでいるんだ。それが観光と地域経済を活性化しているんだよ。
That’s impressive. It sounds like it’s not just transportation—it’s a big part of Japan’s culture and economy.
すごいね。それは単なる移動手段じゃなくて、日本の文化と経済の大きな一部みたいだね。
Exactly. The Shinkansen is a symbol of Japanese innovation and hospitality. When you’re ready, we should plan a trip!
その通りだよ。新幹線は日本の革新性とおもてなしの象徴だ。準備ができたら旅行を計画しよう！
Let’s do it! I want to experience the speed, the comfort, and of course, see Mount Fuji.
そうしよう！速さや快適さを体験して、もちろん富士山も見たいな。
You’ll love it. The Shinkansen is truly a ride to remember.
きっと気に入るよ。新幹線は本当に忘れられない旅になるよ。
関連情報 / related information
新幹線
Introduction to the Shinkansen
The Shinkansen, also called the bullet train, is Japan’s high-speed railway system. It connects major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. The first Shinkansen line, called the Tokaido Shinkansen, started operating in 1964. It was opened just before the Tokyo Olympics to show Japan’s advanced technology to the world. Today, the Shinkansen is known for its speed, safety, and comfort, making it a symbol of Japan’s progress.
新幹線の紹介
新幹線は「弾丸列車」とも呼ばれる日本の高速鉄道システムです。東京、大阪、京都といった主要都市を結びます。最初の路線である東海道新幹線は1964年に運行を開始しました。これは東京オリンピックの直前に開業し、日本の先進技術を世界に示すためでした。現在、新幹線はその速さ、安全性、快適性で知られ、日本の進歩を象徴しています。
Speed and Punctuality
One of the most amazing features of the Shinkansen is its speed. The fastest trains can travel up to 320 km/h, allowing passengers to move quickly between cities. For example, the trip from Tokyo to Osaka takes only about 2.5 hours. Another great point is its punctuality. The average delay of a Shinkansen is less than one minute. This makes it very reliable for both tourists and businesspeople.
速さと正確性
新幹線の最も驚くべき特徴のひとつは、その速さです。一番速い列車は時速320kmに達し、都市間を迅速に移動できます。例えば、東京から大阪への移動は約2時間半しかかかりません。もうひとつの素晴らしい点は正確性です。新幹線の平均遅延時間は1分未満です。この信頼性は観光客にもビジネス利用者にも非常に便利です。
Safety and Comfort
The Shinkansen is also famous for its safety. Since it started in 1964, there have been no fatal accidents. Advanced technology, such as earthquake detection systems, helps keep the trains safe. In addition to safety, the Shinkansen provides a comfortable ride. The seats are spacious, and the cars are quiet and clean. For more luxury, passengers can choose the Green Car or Gran Class, which offer larger seats and extra services.
安全性と快適性
新幹線は安全性でも有名です。1964年の運行開始以来、致命的な事故は一度もありません。地震感知システムなどの高度な技術が列車の安全性を確保しています。安全性に加え、新幹線は快適な乗車体験を提供します。座席は広々としており、車内は静かで清潔です。さらに贅沢を求める場合は、グリーン車やグランクラスを選ぶこともでき、大きな座席や追加のサービスが提供されます。
Tourism and Local Benefits
The Shinkansen is not only for traveling between big cities; it also helps connect small towns and rural areas. This supports local tourism and economy. Many international tourists use the JR Pass, which allows unlimited rides on the Shinkansen and other JR trains. It’s a great way to explore Japan and visit famous spots like Mount Fuji, which can be seen from the train on clear days.
観光と地域への利益
新幹線は大都市間の移動だけでなく、小さな町や地方を結ぶ役割も果たしています。これにより地域観光と経済が支えられています。多くの外国人観光客が、JRパスを利用して新幹線や他のJR列車に乗り放題を楽しんでいます。このパスは、日本を探索し、晴れた日には新幹線から見える富士山のような名所を訪れるのに最適です。
Conclusion
The Shinkansen is more than just a train—it’s a key part of Japanese life and culture. It combines speed, safety, and comfort with environmental friendliness. The Shinkansen also connects people and places, helping Japan’s economy and tourism. For anyone visiting Japan, riding the Shinkansen is an unforgettable experience and a great way to discover the country.
結論
新幹線は単なる列車ではなく、日本の生活や文化の重要な一部です。速さ、安全性、快適性を兼ね備え、さらに環境にも優れています。また、新幹線は人々や場所を結び、日本の経済や観光を支えています。日本を訪れる人にとって、新幹線に乗ることは忘れられない体験であり、日本を発見する素晴らしい方法です。
10の質問 / 10 questions
1: What is the Shinkansen?
新幹線とは何ですか？
The Shinkansen is Japan’s high-speed railway system, also known as the bullet train. It connects major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
新幹線は日本の高速鉄道システムで、「弾丸列車」とも呼ばれます。東京、大阪、京都などの主要都市を結びます。
2: When did the Shinkansen first start operating?
新幹線はいつ初めて運行を開始しましたか？
The first Shinkansen line, the Tokaido Shinkansen, began operation in 1964, just before the Tokyo Olympics.
最初の路線である東海道新幹線は、1964年に東京オリンピックの直前に運行を開始しました。
3: How fast does the Shinkansen go?
新幹線はどれくらい速く走りますか？
The Shinkansen can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h, making it one of the fastest trains in the world.
新幹線は最高時速320kmで走行可能で、世界でも最速の列車のひとつです。
4: Why is the Shinkansen famous for punctuality?
新幹線が時間通り運行することで有名なのはなぜですか？
The Shinkansen is very reliable and has an average delay of less than one minute due to advanced scheduling and management systems.
新幹線は非常に信頼性が高く、先進的な運行計画と管理システムにより平均遅延が1分未満です。
5: Is the Shinkansen safe?
新幹線は安全ですか？
Yes, the Shinkansen is one of the safest transportation systems in the world. Since it started, there have been no fatal accidents thanks to advanced safety features like earthquake detection systems.
はい、新幹線は世界で最も安全な交通手段のひとつです。地震感知システムのような高度な安全機能により、運行開始以来致命的な事故はありません。
6: What are the seating options on the Shinkansen?
新幹線にはどのような座席の選択肢がありますか？
The Shinkansen offers different seating options, including Standard Class, Green Car, and Gran Class, which provide increasing levels of comfort and luxury.
新幹線には普通車、グリーン車、グランクラスなどの座席の選択肢があり、快適さと豪華さのレベルが異なります。
7: Can you see Mount Fuji from the Shinkansen?
新幹線から富士山を見ることはできますか？
Yes, passengers traveling between Tokyo and Osaka can see Mount Fuji on clear days, which is a popular highlight of the trip.
はい、東京と大阪の間を移動する乗客は、晴れた日には富士山を見ることができ、旅の人気の見どころです。
8: What is the JR Pass, and how does it relate to the Shinkansen?
JRパスとは何ですか？また、新幹線とどのように関係していますか？
The JR Pass is a special ticket for international tourists that allows unlimited travel on most Shinkansen and JR trains. It’s a cost-effective way to explore Japan.
JRパスは外国人観光客向けの特別なチケットで、ほとんどの新幹線やJR列車に乗り放題です。日本を探索するためのコストパフォーマンスの高い方法です。
9: How does the Shinkansen help rural areas?
新幹線は地方にどのように役立っていますか？
The Shinkansen connects small towns and rural areas to major cities, supporting tourism and boosting local economies.
新幹線は小さな町や地方を主要都市と結び、観光を支援し地域経済を活性化しています。
10: Why is the Shinkansen environmentally friendly?
新幹線が環境に優しいのはなぜですか？
The Shinkansen uses energy-efficient technology and produces less CO2 compared to cars and airplanes, making it an eco-friendly transportation option.
新幹線はエネルギー効率の高い技術を使用し、車や飛行機に比べてCO2排出量が少ないため、環境に優しい交通手段です。
words & phrases
英会話ダイアローグと関連情報に出てきた単語・フレーズです（例文は各３つ）。
impressive: 形容詞
意味: 印象的な、感動的な。Something that makes you admire or respect it because it is great, beautiful, or skillful.
（新幹線の技術や速度に感銘を受ける場面で使用）
例文:
- The Shinkansen’s speed is truly impressive.
「新幹線の速さは本当に印象的です。」 - Her speech was very impressive and inspired everyone.
「彼女のスピーチはとても印象的で、みんなを感動させました。」 - The view of Mount Fuji from the train was impressive.
「列車から見える富士山の景色は印象的でした。」
punctuality: 名詞
意味: 時間厳守、時間通りであること。The quality of being on time or doing things at the agreed time.
（新幹線の遅延がほとんどない点を指す）
例文:
- The punctuality of the Shinkansen is famous worldwide.
「新幹線の時間厳守は世界的に有名です。」 - Good punctuality is important for a successful career.
「時間を守ることは成功するキャリアにとって重要です。」 - The meeting’s punctuality impressed everyone.
「その会議の時間厳守ぶりは皆を感心させました。」
insane: 形容詞
意味: 常軌を逸した、非常識な。Very crazy, unreasonable, or hard to believe.
（新幹線の平均遅延時間が1分未満という事実に驚く場面で使用）
例文:
- The idea of a one-minute delay being rare is insane.
「1分の遅れが珍しいという考えは非常識だ。」 - The traffic today was insane!
「今日は交通状況がひどかった！」 - Climbing Mount Everest without oxygen is insane.
「酸素なしでエベレストに登るのは非常識だ。」
fatal: 形容詞
意味: 致命的な、命に関わる。Causing death or very serious harm.
（新幹線の歴史で致命的な事故がないことを説明する場面で使用）
例文:
- There have been no fatal accidents on the Shinkansen.
「新幹線では致命的な事故は一度もありません。」 - A fatal mistake in surgery led to serious consequences.
「手術での致命的なミスが深刻な結果を招いた。」 - The crash caused several fatal injuries.
「その衝突でいくつかの致命的な怪我が生じました。」
spacious: 形容詞
意味: 広々とした、ゆったりとした。Having a lot of space.
（新幹線の座席の広さを説明する際に使用）
例文:
- The Shinkansen’s seats are very spacious and comfortable.
「新幹線の座席はとても広々としていて快適です。」 - Their new apartment is much more spacious than the old one.
「彼らの新しいアパートは前のものよりずっと広々としています。」 - The park is spacious and perfect for picnics.
「その公園は広々としていてピクニックに最適です。」