Hiroshima: Skyrail system makes final run; ‘New transport’ was not introduced anywhere else

HIROSHIMA – The Skyrail, an elevated transportation system connecting a hillside residential complex in Aki Ward, Hiroshima, and a JR station at the foot of the hill, ended a quarter-century of operation on April 30.

As passenger numbers stagnated and parts became difficult to obtain, the Skyrail was forced to shut down.

The Skyrail was an unusual system because it was a combination of monorail and cable car. The gondola-like carriages were hung on a rail and moved using a cable.

The Skyrail opened in August 1998 and operated on a 1.3 kilometer route with three stops: Midori-Guchi Station for JR Seno Station, Midori-Nakamachi Station and Midori-Chuo Station. The car could carry 25 passengers and travel at an average speed of approximately 15 km/h. A one-way trip took about five minutes and cost ¥170 for adults.

It was initially estimated that the Skyrail would attract 5,000 passengers daily. However, the goal was never achieved and tariff revenues remained stagnant. Initially, expectations were high as a new form of transportation, but the company that manufactured parts went bankrupt, making it difficult for the Skyrail to continue. The system has not been introduced elsewhere either.

Electric buses were introduced to the route and began operating in the residential complex before the Skyrail closed.