Japan’s Unusual Approach to AGT: Why Some Systems Still Use Human Drivers

When people think of automated

guideway transit (AGT) systems, they

typically think of fully driverless

operations. Indeed, most AGT systems

worldwide are known for their automatic,

unmanned service—a hallmark of

modern urban transit.

However, Japan presents an intriguing

exception.

Despite being a technology-forward

nation and an early adopter of driverless

AGT systems, such as the Port Liner in

Kobe and the New Tram in Osaka,

Japan is also home to four AGT lines

that are manually operated by human

drivers: the Yūkarigaoka Line,

the New Shuttle,

the Leo Liner,

and the Astram Line

This is rare, even on a global scale.

So why does a country known for

precision automation still run some of its

AGTs with drivers?

The answer lies in a mix of safety

concerns, infrastructure design, and

cost management.

For example, the Astram Line in

Hiroshima runs partially underground. In

the event of a fire or other emergency,

it is crucial to have trained personnel on

board to guide passengers to safety,

which is a key reason the Astram Line

opted for crewed operations.

In contrast, the other three lines—

Yūkarigaoka, New Shuttle, and Leo

Liner—were designed on tight budgets.

Rather than investing in the expensive

signaling systems required for full

automation, the operators chose a

simpler approach: keeping the vehicles

crewed while using the same guided

track infrastructure.

It’s important to note that these

manually operated AGTs are highly safe.

Each is equipped with modern train

protection systems, such as ATS or

ATC, which ensure operational safety

comparable to that of driverless

counterparts.

As Japan and many other countries face

growing challenges in recruiting enough

train drivers, these lines may gradually

transition to full automation.