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http://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/AJ201604150090.html A view from the driver’s seat and watching a Shinkansen “take a shower” are just a few of the things visitors can experience when West Japan Railway Co. (JR West) opens the doors to its Hakata Railyard in May. Located in Nakagawa, Fukuoka Prefecture, in southern Japan, the railyard is the main base for the bullet trains used on the Sanyo Shinkansen Line. It is about 15 minutes by foot from Hakata-Minami Station. The railyard had only been opened in the past to school excursions and special events held by JR West. The railway will begin accepting applications for the free public tours on April 1. JR West will accept one tour group of eight to 40 people for two slots available on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., except on national holidays and the Tuesday at the beginning and ending of the year. Applications can be submitted online at <http://www.westjr.co.jp/railroad/fan/event/>. Applications will be accepted for dates up to three months in advance.