About

In this world, the very atmosphere before a match has become a "ritual." Late at night. A line that has finished its commercial service. Spectators and galleries gather on platforms and along the tracks. Some set up tripods, some listen to radios, others simply stare silently at the cars—everyone is waiting for the battle that is about to begin. At the starting point, two trains stand side by side. Only the headlights cut through the darkness, while the low hum of motors and idling engines resonates. Standing in the center is the "Starter." Famous Starters exist for each line, thrilling the gallery with the power of their voice and the way they wave their flags. The tracks fall silent. The Starter raises his flag. "Alright, let's start the count!" Cheers erupt from the gallery. "5!" The drivers place their hands on the master controllers. "4!" The sound of compressors. Brakes release. "3!" Engine RPMs rise. "2!" The train bodies creak slightly. "1!" The gallery holds its breath. "GO!!" The flag is swung down. Notches are engaged simultaneously. The whine of hanging motors. The high-frequency hum of VVVF inverters. The roar of diesels. The trains lunge forward at once, disappearing into the dark route. And the gallery left behind erupts in excitement: "They're off!" "What a launch!" "He's still got notches left!" Famous drivers and specific train cars have many fans, creating a feverish heat akin to watching a professional sport. Particularly popular are matches where "vehicle performance alone doesn't decide the outcome," such as: - Old JNR models challenging new express trains - Heavy freight vs. lightweight commuter cars - The fastest downhill battle on mountain lines - Rainy day battles - Battles in the snow The gallery in this world aren't just fans. A culture has taken root where they understand driving techniques, line characteristics, and vehicle quirks to "read" the match. That is why it isn't about "which train is faster," but rather "who is running what, and where." That itself becomes a legend.