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Last month the MLIT released a list of 58 railway road crossings which were top candidates for improvement (or elimination via grade separation). Keio Railway led the list with 25 railway crossings that posed safety risks and/or congestion choke points. Second on the list was JR Kyushu, with 6 locations. Third was JR Tokai, with 5 locations. The remaining railways had three or less candidate locations. It must be noted that the Keio Railway crossings in question will be eliminated with the completion of the (currently under construction) elevation of the Keio Main Line between Sasazuka and Sengawa (7.2km). http://toyokeizai.net/articles/-/118244 Actual list of those crossings, from the MLIT: http://www.mlit.go.jp/common/001126608.pdf

This Wednesday the MLIT announced that it was setting up a committee to promote the shipping by rail of import/export containers. The first meeting will take place today (Friday). Currently over 90% of these containers move by road. In efforts to promote modal shift and address labor shortages (truckers?), the ministry will consult with shippers and forwarders, to find out their needs and requirements. Currently such container traffic has not moved on rail due to issues such as tunnel clearances. A new container flatcar design that allows clearances may be necessary. http://response.jp/article/2014/12/05/238999.html