With the coming of the Osaka Metro in 1933, the tramway company decorated five trams for the opening. They are shown in line on our main postcard and those behind the leading car are detailed in the smaller views below. Note the double trolleys, similar to those used in Tokyo, which it was thought would provide a better electrical return circuit with less leakage than when using the track. The more modern bogie car in the last view has two sets, one for each direction of travel. (For details of early Osaka trams see Osaka Postcard.)
The Osaka Metro is unique in Japan as it is partially legally classified as a tram system, while all other subway systems in Japan are classified as railways. Despite this, it operates with characteristics typical of a fully-fledged metro system, including high-speed trains and extensive underground routes. Run by the Osaka Municipal Transportation Bureau, the Metro commenced operation on May 20, 1933 with the opening of the Midosuji Line, the first service running from Umeda to Shinsaibashi. This line, serving as a north-south trunk route, is the busiest on the network. The success encouraged expansion, with the Chuo Line, the main east-west route, being extended to the north and east. Over the years, the Osaka Metro expanded incorporating additional lines such as the Yotsubashi Line, Tanimachi Line, and Sennichimae Line. Each of these lines enhanced connectivity within Osaka and its neighbouring municipalities, including Higashiosaka, Kadoma, Moriguchi, Sakai, Suita, and Yao and is still in regular use today, operated since 2018 by the Osaka Metro Co., Ltd.
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