Abstract Construction has commenced on the world's first shield driven double track subway tunnel of rectangular shape for the Kyoto Municipal Subway. Full-scale loading tests were performed on lining segments to confirm the adequacy of their design. Also, as a method to excavate a rectangular cross-section, a ‘wagging cutter shield,’ which is equipped with rotating cutters that perform oscillating movement, was adopted. This paper presents a report on the overall planning, the tests that were performed in the process of planning, and the results of initial driving.