Preservation activities are ongoing for old stations and trains that contributed to the modernization of Japan, as they are a vital part of history. Recent examples include an old station in the heart of Tokyo renovated into a commercial complex, disused stations transformed into contemporary art, and a citizen group persevering a historic train through internet fundraising. See how railway heritage is being given a new lease of life, and helping to revitalize local regions.

1957 saw the opening of Japan's first monorail. 60 years on, Japan is a world leader in monorail technology with 11 lines currently in operation covering a distance of 100km. In this program, we take a look at how monorails have become an increasingly popular mode of urban transportation; the unique characteristics and comparative benefits of both straddle and suspended monorail systems; and Japan's well-established monorail technology which has been gaining attention all over the world.