THE JAPANESE RAILWAYS.

Mataura Ensign, 15 December 1911, Page 3

THE JAPANESE RAILWAYS.

* METHODS AN CUSTOMS. "Japanese engineers favor the English type of locomotive principally liecause the centre of gravity is considerably lower, and they feel that it is safer on their curves with the narrow gauge. I understand," says a writer in the 'Railway Age Gazette,' "that the most satisfactory locomotives ever operated in Japau were built in America from English designs. That first order of <3O locomotives was followed by orders for some 500 of the same type, and they proved very satisfactory. Locomotive and car works have recently been established, and much new work is done at home.

"Station platforms in Japan, as in England and Europe, are level with the car steps The station master is quite a dignified official has a uniform, and carries a sword: on special occasions. The uniform consists of the ordinary regulation blue, with gilt buttons and gold braid, and a bright scarlet hand round his cap. He is rather a showy individual when he gets it on, and as he walks along the platform things move. When there is a celebrated dignitary passing through, such as the Emperor or a member of Parliament, he buckles on his sword. "About 1301b of free baggage is allowed: on each first-class ticket, and baggago will be delivered by station porters within a radius of four miles at cents apiece. Trains are in charge of a guard. Tickets are punched when passengers pass through the wicket on the platform, and given up when passing out at destination. All tickets arc good for stop-overs at most stations within the limits of expiration date, all that is necessary being to show you ticket to the collector at the wicket and pass out. "Special platform tickets are issued J at one cent each to accommodate those coming with or to meet friends. In that way they take advantage, in a financial sense) at least, of the feelings of the people, which in Japan lead; them to appear in large numbers when their friends leave or when they wish to welcome .someone coming. It is my own recollection that when 1 left Kure, the naval station, homeward bound, upwards of IQO appeared and lined up on the platform to say good-bye in their best English: It is considered a mark of great disrespect in Japan not to go to the station to see your friends off."