Snake halts Japan's bullet trains after getting tangled in power lines
The incident occurred between Gifu-Hashima and Maibara station around 5.25pm on Wednesday, 30 April, halting trains to the Japanese capital and the city of Osaka for around an hour and a half, Kyodo News said.
The service disruption occurred on the Tokaido Shinkansen line, which also stops at Kyoto and Nagoya, and is considered the most popular and busiest route.
The snake is thought to have become entangled in a power line, leading to the high-speed service to halt operations on the usually punctual service.
Shinkansen trains operate on a network of high-speed train lines, connecting most of Japan's major cities and can run at speeds of up to 285 kilometres per hour.
Tokaido Shinkansen trains usually depart every few minutes for most stations along the route. With the service out of operation for so long, passengers started to form crowds around staff at Nagoya Station seeking explanations for why the trains were delayed, while long queues formed at ticket machines.
Each day, 372 Shinkansen train services usually operate on this line, with around 432,000 passengers using the service.
JR Central says that its trains are usually punctual, with an average delay time of 1.6 minutes.
Services eventually resumed around 7pm after it was deemed safe to do so, JR Central, a railway operator in Japan, told the publication.
"I use the Shinkansen several times a month, but this is the first time I have experienced suspensions due to a power outage," Satoshi Tagawa, who was due to return to Tokyo, told Kyodo News.
"I am relieved," added 26-year-old Kazutoshi Tachi, after learning that trains were running again. "But I am fed up with the troubles [with Shinkansen services]. I want them to run on time."
This is not the first time snakes have jeopardised the busy schedule of the Shinkansen services in Japan.
In April 2024, a small snake found its way into a passenger's carriage and was slithering along the floor.
The 40-centimetre snake had been spotted in the carriage of a train which was due to depart for Osaka, but was instead put out of service as a precaution.
While the small reptile only caused a 17-minute delay, over 600 passengers were affected by the train being put out of action.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
New York Post
3 hours ago
- New York Post
US carriers shamed in surprising new list of the world's ‘cleanest' airlines
Whether you're a frequent flyer or tentative traveler, no one wants to be on a dirty plane. From tissues left in the seat-back pocket, gross complimentary blankets, crumbs on the tray table and germ-ridden windows, there's plenty to be wary of when boarding a plane. But a handful of airlines really prioritize the cleanliness of the cabins. 3 Taiwan-based Eva Air was named the cleanest airline in the world for 2025. Heorshe – Skytrax, an international air transport rating organization, released its list of the World's Cleanest Airlines for 2025, based on passenger surveys examining the standard and quality of cleanliness of aircraft cabins. Passengers were asked to score seat areas, tables, carpets, cabin panels and lavatories in the survey, which was conducted from September 2024 to May 2025 on a voluntary basis. The top three cleanest airlines were all based in Asia, with Taiwan-based Eva Air rewarded as the cleanest airline in the world, moving up from its No. 3 spot in last year's rankings. In second place was Japanese-based All Nippon Airways (ANA), followed by Hong Kong carrier Cathay Pacific in third. 'We believe a pristine cabin environment is fundamental to our passengers' comfort and peace of mind,' a spokesperson for ANA told Condé Nast Traveler. 'We are dedicated to continuously enhancing our cleaning protocols to ensure every ANA journey is a pleasant and fresh experience.' Rounding out the top five were Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines in fourth and fifth place, respectively. Aside from the top three, 10 more Asia-based carriers made it into the top 20 — marking 13 total carriers in Asia. 3 Japanese-based All Nippon Airways (ANA) was named the second cleanest in the world. YOSHIKAZU TSUNO/AFP/Getty Images Notably, not a single U.S. airline made it onto the global list of the world's cleanest airlines. However, Skytrax also listed the cleanest airline by region, and Delta Air Lines was named Cleanest Airline in North America 2025. According to Reader's Digest, Delta works hard to maintain a clean cabin with specialized cleaning teams that perform a thorough cleaning process between every single flight. The airplanes also reportedly get deep cleanings overnight that include vacuuming, shampooing the carpets and detailing the seats and tray tables. 3 Hainan Airlines just missed the top five, coming in at No. 6. VanderWolf Images – Here is Skytrax's complete top 20 list of cleanest airlines in the world for 2025:
Yahoo
5 hours ago
- Yahoo
7 of the Best Freebies You Can Get in Economy—Meals, Alcoholic Drinks, and Toys Included
We spoke to aviation experts to find the best freebies you can get when flying economy. Just because you're flying economy doesn't mean you can't enjoy a few special perks. Even if these extras aren't always widely advertised, they're often available if you ask. As Dollar Flight Club founder and CEO Jesse Neugarten points out, "Many travelers don't realize that even in economy, a polite request can get you a few helpful extras." However, Quinn English, founder of FreeQuinnt Flyer, explains that not all routes are created equal when it comes to economy freebies. For example, he notes that longer flights are more likely to offer extra perks. Similarly, Neugarten adds that "international routes almost always offer more perks than domestic ones." Additionally, English points out that "full-service airlines like Delta, United, and American are going to be the most generous with freebies in economy." On the other hand, both he and Neugarten tell Travel + Leisure that budget carriers tend to be far more limited in what they offer, which makes sense, given their focus on keeping costs (and ticket prices) as low as possible. When asking for freebies, remember that a little kindness and patience go a long way. As English notes, "The most important thing to remember is that most airlines aren't overstaffing flight attendants on each flight, so they have a pretty heavy workload, especially during boarding, getting ready for takeoff, and landing." With that in mind, those probably aren't the best times to make requests. Instead, wait until after the main service has finished and the cabin has settled down—that's when flight attendants are most likely to have the time (and bandwidth) to help. If you're ready to take your in-flight experience to the next level, keep reading to discover the best airline freebies you can score in economy. Meals and Snacks Sure, peanuts and crackers can hit the spot—but sometimes, you're craving something a bit more satisfying at 35,000 feet. According to Neugarten, several international airlines go above and beyond by offering complimentary multi-course meals in economy. Emirates, for example, serves full trays that include a main entrée, fresh salad or fruit, crackers and cheese, and dessert. Japan Airlines (JAL), meanwhile, offers a fun twist on in-flight dining with their specially branded instant noodles, Udon de Sky, a warm, comforting treat that feels uniquely playful and quintessentially Japanese. Air France treats economy passengers to a French-inspired meal complete with a starter, hot main dish, cheese, and dessert. Lufthansa also delivers a generous three-course meal to economy passengers. Domestically, airlines might not offer full meals on most routes, but Neugarten is quick to highlight Delta and JetBlue for their impressive snack selections. Both airlines provide name-brand goodies like Sun Chips, Cheez-Its, Goldfish, and Quaker Chewy Chocolate Chip Granola Bars. And, of course, the fan-favorite Biscoff cookie is available on both—a sweet little perk that many travelers look forward to mid-flight. Amenity Kits While we won't turn our noses up at free food, a mini amenity kit can feel like a true treat. On long-haul flights, some airlines provide amenity kits stocked with items like toothbrushes, socks, and eye masks, says Neugarten. Sometimes, you might even score lip balm, moisturizer, or a tiny bottle of facial mist. He notes that Emirates and Turkish Airlines are two standouts for this perk; however, in our own research, we found that other airlines, such as Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Singapore Airlines, and ANA (All Nippon Airways), also offer this thoughtful extra, which instantly elevates the economy experience. Wi-Fi Free Wi-Fi is becoming increasingly common, and you'll find it on airlines like JetBlue, Delta, and, starting in January 2026, American Airlines. Select international carriers, such as Emirates, Air France, and Qatar Airways, also offer connectivity regardless of cabin class, making it easier than ever to stay connected at 35,000 feet. (That said, you may need to create a free frequent-flier account to take advantage of these offers.) Cozy Extras Cozy extras like pillows and blankets can make a big difference when it comes to getting (and staying!) comfortable, especially on long-haul overnight flights. While these items aren't always guaranteed on every airline, they're often available on longer routes. Air Canada, for example, offers complimentary pillows and blankets on many of its international flights, though other airlines may provide them in limited quantities or only upon request. For your best shot at scoring a free pillow or blanket, Neugarten recommends waiting until the main service is complete and then asking politely. "Something like, 'If you have any extra pillows later on, I'd really appreciate it,' goes a long way," says Neugarten. "Flight attendants are way more likely to help if you're kind and respectful and not pushy or entitled." Alcoholic Beverages Economy passengers of drinking age can enjoy free alcohol on many airlines, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines. Lufthansa and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines also offer complimentary beer and wine in economy. In addition to standard beer, wine, and spirits, Korean Air offers a special selection of wines from around the world, curated in partnership with Marc Almert, the 2019 ASI (Association de la Sommellerie Internationale) World's Best Sommelier—a unique touch that further elevates the in-flight experience. Air France takes a similar approach, offering complimentary wine and Champagne (selected by the airline's head sommelier, Xavier Thuizat). Activity Packs for Kids Even the littlest economy passengers can take advantage of fun freebies. "Airlines like Air Canada offer activity kits for kids, including coloring books and crayons, to help keep them entertained during the flight," says Neugarten. "The key is asking nicely and ideally when the crew isn't in the middle of a service rush." Other airlines that offer activity packs for kids in all cabin classes include Air France, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, United, and Qantas. English notes that "many airlines will have things like activity books or pilot wings that they'll give out to children if you ask." For example, he says, "My two-year-old daughter has a lovie and a mini stuffed airplane she got last year on Lufthansa, and she cannot sleep without them!" Similarly, Cathay Pacific offers children ages three to six special gifts to play with and take home as a souvenir to commemorate their time on board. Trading Cards Among the more unique freebies, Delta offers trading cards that highlight different aircraft in its fleet, often matching the exact type of plane you're flying on. While the airline has been doling these out for over two decades, they only gained widespread recognition after going viral online a couple of years ago. If you're hoping to score one of these coveted cards, here's what you need to know. As English explains, "Some—but not all—Delta pilots have these, so when they aren't busy, feel free to ask." He also suggests checking with a flight attendant first before approaching the cockpit, as it's the safest and most respectful way to make the request. Delta isn't the only airline to offer this fun collectible: United and Frontier do, too. Read the original article on Travel & Leisure Solve the daily Crossword
Hamilton Spectator
a day ago
- Hamilton Spectator
Experts advise packing lightly on cash when travelling
When was the last time you pulled out cash to pay for something? Many Canadians might have to think long and hard, especially if they're younger. Canada has gradually moved toward becoming a cashless society, with most people paying for purchases with smartphones or credit cards. However, whether or not you should carry cash — and how much — can still be a point of contention when travelling abroad. 'The question shouldn't be whether cash is still worth it, but it's how to use it wisely, especially when every dollar counts,' said Amra Durakovic, a spokesperson for Flight Centre Travel Group Canada Inc. She said the decision to carry cash and the amount depends on the destination, purpose of travel and how prepared a traveller wants to be. When Durakovic was travelling to Nicaragua, she knew the airport transfer cost and driver tips would likely be a cash-on-hand situation. For her Morocco trip not too long ago, she said she carried small bills in U.S. dollars when visiting local markets and to pay for taxis. Even if you're going on a cruise or to an all-inclusive resort, carry some cash for tipping staff, Durakovic suggested. 'We would recommend that you do carry a modest amount in bills, ideally in the currency that's most widely accepted locally,' she said. Durakovic said she personally takes at least US$100 in cash when travelling abroad, mostly in smaller bills. She also emphasized paying gratuities on all-inclusive trips in Canadian dollars ahead of time to avoid exchange rate surprises or finding out there are no ATMs on-site at the resort. Sometimes, all-inclusive resorts and cruises can include gratuities in a daily service charge, allowing travellers to account for tips in their budget ahead of time. Prepaid gratuities are typically broken down per night and per guest. For example, Disney Cruise recommends a prepaid gratuity of between US$16 and US$27.25 per night, per guest. When Nicole Hui was preparing to travel to Japan earlier this year, one of the first things she researched was whether it's a cash-reliant economy. The travel and lifestyle content creator said she brought some cash to cover the initial transit from the airport, meals and tipping. But she took out money she needed after that from an ATM at a Japanese 7-Eleven — with a better exchange rate than what she would have received at Canadian banks. But usually, Hui's go-to is her no-fee credit card. 'If it's a less cash-heavy place, I usually just stick with using (a credit) card, but still bring $100 to $200 of local currency for the trip, just in case it's needed,' Hui said. But experts say exchange rates should be kept top of mind when travelling abroad. 'My issue with cash going abroad is it's really expensive to exchange, depending on where you're going,' said personal finance and travel expert Barry Choi. Choi's turning point was when he travelled to Brazil and Argentina almost a decade ago and faced an exorbitant exchange fee at the bank. Ever since, Choi said he prefers either a no-fee credit or prepaid cards, or he will withdraw money at ATMs abroad, if needed. He advised looking for a travel card that allows charge-free ATM withdrawals, credit cards with no or lower exchange-rate fees or a multi-currency card, such as Wise. He does not recommend exchanging money at the airport. Choi's decision to carry cash and the amount comes down to researching what the acceptable currency is in the country he's visiting. He recalled travelling to the United States earlier this year and not using cash once during his trip. Another downside to getting cash is the leftover local currency you may never use, Choi said. 'Why I tell people to carry less cash is: Back in the day, you would keep exchanging all this money, you'd pay high fees to begin with, and then you're left with these random currencies that you may or may not use,' he said. There's a chance of losing money when exchanging leftover local currency for Canadian dollars, depending on the exchange rate fluctuations. But Choi said he still carries US$50 in local currency that can cover a meal or taxi ride, just in case. 'There are still a lot of stores that only take cash, so you could be in the middle of nowhere or even a country where you don't speak the language,' he said. 'You should always have some kind of backup cash, even if it's U.S. dollars, Canadian dollars, or whatever.' This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 22, 2025.
