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Tokyo, Part 2

Michael rides the 21-mile Yamonote line, an elevated railway that encircles the city, and visits the busiest train station in the world by passenger numbers.

On his second day in the Japanese capital, Michael rides the 21-mile Yamonote line, an elevated railway that encircles the city. His first stop is Shinjuku station, a rail enthusiast鈥檚 dream. With 51 platforms and 200 entrances and exits, it鈥檚 the busiest station on earth by passenger numbers.

At nearby Waseda University, the birthplace of the humanoid robot, he sees how the latest models are being trained using AI to look after Japan鈥檚 ageing population. Travelling to Takahana Gateway in the south of the city, Michael discovers the site of Japan鈥檚 first railway. He learns how British engineers played a crucial role in the launch of the line in 1872, connecting Tokyo with Yokohama.

In the evening, Michael heads to the nightlife hot spot of Shibuya to visit an onagaku kissa, a traditional Japanese listening bar.

11 months left to watch

29 minutes

Audio described

Credits

Role Contributor
Presenter Michael Portillo
Director Dave Minchin
Executive Producer John Comerford
Executive Producer Alison Kreps
Production Company Fremantle

Broadcasts