Meitetsu

Meitetsu, officially Nagoya Railroad Co., Ltd., and commonly known as Meitetsu (named after the Japanese abbreviation 名鉄), is a major private railway operator in Japan. Headquartered in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, it runs an extensive rail network centered on the Nagoya metropolitan area and serves much of Aichi Prefecture with portions extending into adjacent areas. Meitetsu is one of the largest private railways in the Chubu region and plays a central role in local transportation, connecting residential districts with business centers and intercity destinations.

The modern Meitetsu traces its origins to the early 20th century, when several regional lines were developed and gradually consolidated under a single corporate umbrella. It adopted the Nagoya Railroad name and later the Meitetsu brand as its network expanded and operations were integrated across the region. Over time, the company diversified its activities beyond rail, forming a broader Meitetsu Group.

Meitetsu operates a dense network of passenger services that includes local, rapid, and limited-express trains. Its routes connect central Nagoya with suburban communities and regional centers, and many stations serve as interchanges with other rail operators, bus networks, and commercial districts. The company emphasizes punctuality, safety, and service quality to accommodate daily commuters as well as leisure travelers.

In addition to rail operations, the Meitetsu Group runs department stores, hotels, travel and bus services, real estate, and logistics businesses. These non-rail activities complement the transportation network and contribute to the group’s overall presence in the region.