The previous record was 579 km/h

The train reached 581 kilometres per hour (360 miles per hour) on a test track west of Tokyo, beating its own record by 2 km/h.

It was the third time in the last three weeks that the train has broken its own record, according to a statement issued by Central Japan Railway Company, which is carrying out the experiments.

"The Maglev train with 12 people on board registered the record speed," a spokeswoman said

Maglev trains differ from normal trains in that magnets lift them slightly off the track, eliminating friction and noise.

They are still being tested and have not yet entered commercial service.