Japan’s JR East to train 100-plus foreign workers in railway upkeep, repair

Companies

Trainees from countries like Indonesia, Vietnam include hires at other operators

Participants in a past training session run by JR East learn about railway inspections and maintenance. (JR East)

KOTARO ABE

February 20, 2026 06:44 JST

TOKYO — East Japan Railway, or JR East, plans to soon train 113 foreign workers in maintaining and repairing railcars and equipment for dozens of railway operators and contractors under plans announced Thursday.