Japan is preparing for significant disruptions in transportation as Typhoon Shanshan threatens to make landfall later this week. The powerful storm, currently near the Amami island region in southwestern Japan, has prompted warnings from the Japan Meteorological Agency of severe weather conditions, including heavy rain, strong winds, and the risk of landslides and flooding, as reported by Kyodo News. 

The typhoon's slow movement is expected to prolong the impact on travel. The agency has forecast that Amami, along with both western and eastern Japan's Pacific coast, will experience heavy rains and strong winds. Residents in these areas are advised to remain vigilant, particularly in low-lying regions prone to flooding and swollen rivers.

Transportation networks are already showing signs of strain. Heavy rains have led to intermittent suspensions of Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train services between Tokyo and Shin-Osaka. Starting Wednesday, August 28 night, Kyushu Shinkansen services between Kumamoto and Kagoshima-Chuo will be halted, with no trains operating on Thursday. There are also concerns that Tokaido Shinkansen services may face partial or complete suspensions from Friday through Saturday, and Sanyo Shinkansen trains could be disrupted from Thursday onwards.

Air travel is also affected, with major airlines such as All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Japan Airlines (JAL) preparing for possible cancellations. Flights from central to southwestern Japan are at risk, with some cancellations already occurring. JAL has specifically announced that certain international flights at Chubu airport in Aichi Prefecture and Kansai airport in Osaka Prefecture will be cancelled on Wednesday, August 28, due to the typhoon's approach.

The impact of Typhoon Shanshan underscores the ongoing challenges posed by extreme weather events in Japan. As the storm progresses, further cancellations and disruptions in both rail and air travel are likely, affecting both domestic and international passengers. Authorities and travel operators are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to update the public on any changes.