Japanese train sets used for charters, special events and tourist excursions
Joyful Train (ジョイフルトレイン , joifuru torein ) is the name given to railway rolling stock or train sets operated by the JR Group in Japan primarily for charters, special events, tourist excursions, and other similar purposes.[ 1] Traditionally, this term is only used for chartered trains dedicated to large group travel, but in recent years, it has expanded to include sightseeing trains and tourist trains as well, as their distinctions are made ambiguous. This page includes all trains considered "Joyful trains" and "Signtseeing trains".
History
Origins
The "Joyful Train" concept can be traced back to 1960, when a 1935-vintage SuHaShi 29 dining car was converted into a Japanese-style o-zashiki train with tatami flooring and shoji paper screens on the windows. This could be coupled to regular service trains for use by charter parties. A second car was similarly modified in April 1961.
[ 2]
The first train to directly be called "Joyful Train" was the Salon Express Tokyo , a European styled train. The term has since been applied in retrospect to all trains produced before then that fits the descriptions. Many conversions of trains were done due to surplus rolling stock after the abolishment of certain express lines, and purpose-built Joyful Trains are rare. All cars on a Joyful Train are considered Green Cars.
Recent years
Since the bursting of Japan's Bubble Economy, small group travel using buses have become more mainstream, and opportunities to use group trains have decreased, and so have been the demand of European style salon trains. Some JR companies such as JR Kyushu has at once completely abolished chartered trains in order to save costs, and European-styled Salon Trains disappeared from JR Central's rolling stock after the retirement of the Euroliner in 2004.
On the other hand, this shift has led JR companies to target individual travellers directly with sightseeing trains, in an attempt to increase regional development. Onboard such tourist-oriented trains, one can enjoy local products, famous sake, or other activities. Sometimes, JR companies has not used the term "Joyful Train" to refer to tourist trains, but since tourist trains are often operated as group trains as well, railway hobby magazines often use both terms, if not use them interchangably.
Locomotive-hauled Joyful Trains tend to be retired due to the time consumed in changing locomotives, as well as the aging of the rolling stock itself. Currently, the only loco-hauled Joyful Trains in service are the Seven Stars in Kyushu of JR Kyushu, the Salon Car Naniwa , the SL Yamaguchi , and the Banetsu Monogatari .
Lines in operation
JR Hokkaido
DMU
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Dōhoku Ryūhyō no Megumi
道北 流氷の恵み
KiHa 40 series
1
Seating
2018
KiHa 40
-
Part of the Hokkaidō no Megumi (Blessings of Hokkaido) set. Name means "Northern Hokkaido: Blessing of Drift Ice".
Dōtō Mori no Megumi
道東 森の恵み
KiHa 40 series
1
Seating
2018
KiHa 40
-
Part of the Hokkaidō no Megumi (Blessings of Hokkaido) set. Name means "Eastern Hokkaido: Blessing of the Forest".
Dōnan Kai no Megumi
道南 海の恵み
KiHa 40 series
1
Seating
2018
KiHa 40
-
Part of the Hokkaidō no Megumi (Blessings of Hokkaido) set. Name means "Southern Hokkaido: Blessing of the Sea".
Dōō Hana no Megumi
道央 花の恵み
KiHa 40 series
1
Seating
2018
KiHa 40
-
Part of the Hokkaidō no Megumi (Blessings of Hokkaido) set. Name means "Central Hokkaido: Blessing of Flowers".
Sanmei
山明
KiHa 40 series
1
Seating
2019
KiHa 40
-
Part of the Sanshisuimei set. Both converted due to popular demand after the unveiling of the Hokkaido no Megumi trains.
Shisui
紫水
KiHa 40 series
1
Seating
2019
KiHa 40
-
Part of the Sanshisuimei set.
Dōhoku Ryūhyō no Megumi
Dōō Hana no Megumi
Sanmei , 2020
Shisui , 2021
JR East
EMU
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Nagomi
和
E655 series
5
Seating
July 2007
Purpose-built
Tokyo
Also used as the train of the Emperor of Japan
The Royal Express
ザ・ロイヤルエクスプレス
Izukyu 2100 series
8
Seating
July 2017
Izukyu 2100 Series
Izu
Jointly operated by Tokyu Corporation , JR East and Izukyu Corporation
B.B.Base
BOSO BICYCLE BASE
209-2200 series
6
Seating
2018
209 series
Makuhari
DMU
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Koshino Shu*Kura
越乃Shu*Kura
KiHa 40/48
3
Seating
2014
KiHa 40/48 series
Niitsu
Oykot
おいこっと
KiHa 110 series
2
Seating
2015
KiHa 110 series
Nagano
The name "Oykot" comes from a letter reversal of "Tokyo", intending to create a sense of rural Japan, opposite to Tokyo.
POKÉMON with YOU Train
POKÉMON with YOU Train
KiHa 100
2
Seating
2012
KiHa 100
Ichinoseki
Resort Shirakami "Aoike"
リゾートしらかみ「青池」
HB-E300
4
Seating/semi-open compartments
2010
Purpose-built
Akita
Replaced KiHa 48 series.
Resort Shirakami "Buna"
リゾートしらかみ「橅」
HB-E300
4
Seating/semi-open compartments
2016
Purpose-built
Akita
Replaced KiHa 48 series.
Resort Shirakami "Kumagera"
リゾートしらかみ「くまげら」
KiHa 48
4
Seating/semi-open compartments
April 2006
KiHa 48
Akita
Resort View Furusato
リゾートビューふるさと
HB-E300
2
Seating
2010
Purpose-built
Nagano
Tohoku Emotion
TOHOKU EMOTION
KiHa 110-700 series
3
Seating
19 October 2013
KiHa 110 series
Morioka
KiHa 110-701 + KiHa 111-701 + KiKuShi 112-701
High Rail 1375
はいれーる いちさんななご
KiHa 110 series
2
Seating
1 July 2017
KiHa 110 series
Nagano
View Coaster Kazekko
びゅうコースター風っこ
KiHa 48
2
Seating
June 2000
KiHa 48
Sendai
Side windows are removed, and metal bars were installed with plastic covering.
Kairi
海里
HB-E300 series
4
Seating
2019
Purpose-built
Niigata
Features a different headlight design than the sets used on Resort Shirakami services. Successor to 'Kirakira Uetsu'.
Hinabi
ひなび
HB-E300 series
2
Seating
December 2023
HB-E300 Series
Iwate
Converted from former Resort Asunaro set
Satono
SATONO
HB-E300 series
2
Seating
April 2024
HB-E300 Series
Yamagata
Converted from former Resort Asunaro set
Pokemon With You Train in updated livery, January 2018
Pokemon With You Train in initial livery, December 2012
View Coaster Kazekko , November 2005
Interior of View Coaster Kazekko
Tohoku Emotion , 2014
Oykot , 2015
Kairi , July 2022
Hinabi, October 2023
Satono, April 2024
High Rail 1375 , July 2017
Loco hauled
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
SL Banetsu Monogatari
SLばんえつ物語
12 series
7
Seating
29 April 1999
12
Niigata
[ 1]
Cassiopeia Travologue
カシオペア紀行
E26 Series
12
Sleeping Compartment
June 2016
Purpose-Built
Ueno
Formerly a Limited Express Service and a tourist train, the Cassiopeia trainset has been running as a group charter train since 2016. Its role as a Limited Express service was replaced by the Hokkaido Shinkansen , and its role as a cruise train was replaced by the Train Suite Shikishima .
The Banetsu Monogatari trainset hauled by D51 498, April 2011
Cassiopeia Travologue , 2016
JR West
EMU
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
La Malle de Bois
La Malle de Bois
213 series
2
Seating
Spring 2016
213 series
Okayama
[ 3]
WEST EXPRESS Ginga
WEST EXPRESS 銀河
117 series
6
Seating/compartments/Sleeping car
May 2020
117 series
Kyoto
[ 4]
La Malle de Bois 213-7000 series operating the La Malle Setouchi service, Spring 2016
WEST EXPRESS Ginga 117-7000 series, April 2020
DMU
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Belles Montagnes et Mer
ベル・モンターニュ・エ・メール ("べるもんた")
KiHa 40
1
Seating
October 2015
KiHa 40
Toyama
[ 5] Affectionally referred to as "Belmonta" (べるもんた).
Hanayome Noren
花嫁のれん
KiHa 48
2
Seating
October 2015
KiHa 48
Ishikawa
[ 6]
Nostalgie
ノスタルジー
KiHa 47
2
Seating
Spring 2016
KiHa 47
Okayama
[ 7] Painted in JNR colors.
Maru Maru No Hanashi
○○のはなし
KiHa 47
2
Seating
August 2017
KiHa 47
Yamaguchi
Converted from former Misuzu Shiosai [ 8]
Ametsuchi
あめつち
KiHa 47
2
Seating
July 2018
KiHa 47
Gotō
Umiyamamsubi
うみやまむすび
KiHa 40
1
Seating
July 2019
KiHa 40
Hyōgo
Converted from former Tenkū no shiro Takedajōato
etSETOra
エトセトラ
KiHa 47
2
Seating
October 2020
KiHa 47
Hiroshima
Converted from former Setouchi Marine View
SAKUBI SAKURA
SAKU美SAKU楽
KiHa 47
1
Seating
July 2022
KiHa 47
Okayama
Belles Montagnes el Mer KiHa 40 series, May 2016
Maru Maru No Hanashi KiHa 40 series, October 2022
Nostalgie
Umiyamamsubi
Hanayome Noren , May 2016
Ametuchi KiHa 47 series, October 2022
etSETOra
Sakubi Sakura
Loco hauled
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Salon Car Naniwa
サロンカーなにわ
14 series
7
Seating
September 1983
14 series
Miyahara, Osaka
SL Yamaguchi
SLやまぐち号
35 series
5
Seating
September 2017
Purpose-built
Yamaguchi
Replaced 12 series.
JR Shikoku
Sightseeing trains are operated on each line of JR Shikoku. All of these trains are operated by DMUs, and there are no trains operated by electric trains. This is because most of the lines within JR Shikoku's jurisdiction are non-electrified.
DMU
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Shikoku Mannaka Sennen Monogatari
四国まんなか千年ものがたり
KiHa 185 series
3
Seating
April 2017
KiHa 185
Kotohira
All 3 cars have distinct paint schemes.
Iyonada Monogatari (KiHa 185)
伊予灘ものがたり
KiHa 185 series
3
Seating
3 April 2022
KiHa 185
Ehime
Replaced former KiHa 47, which was retired in 2021.
Shikoku Tosa Toki no Yoake no Monogatari
志国土佐 時代の夜明けのものがたり
KiHa 185 series
2
Seating
July 2020
KiHa 185
Kochi
Kaiyodo Hobby Train
海洋堂ホビートレイン
KiHa 32
1
Seating
July 2011
KiHa 32
Matsuyama
Has had 3 different paint schemes.
Tetsudo Hobby Train
鉄道ホビートレイン
KiHa 32
1
Seating
March 2014
KiHa 32
Matsuyama
Outwardly modified to resemble a 0 Series Shinkansen .
Tetsudo Hobby Train , March 2014
Shikoku Mannaka Sennen Monogatari
Shikoku Tosa Toki no Yoake no Monogatari
Kaiyodo Hobby Train in its most recent paint scheme
JR Kyushu
JR Kyushu officially does not operate any Joyful Trains in the traditional definition. However, the following sightseeing trainsets that they operate are classified as "D&S Trains" (Design and Story trains), as according to JR Kyushu, each train has a design and a story based on the region that they operate in. In addition, the Trans-Kyushu Limited Express is classified as a D&S Train as well despite not appearing on this list. Most D&S Trains are converted from regular rolling stock into sightseeing expresses, and are designed by Eiji Mitooka . The Kampachi Ichiroku was designed by IFOO Corporation instead. However, it is important to note that the Seven Stars in Kyushu is not classified as a D&S train, but a "Luxury Sleeper train".
EMU
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
36 + 3
36ぷらす3
787 series
6
Seating/compartments
October 2020
787 series
Minami-Fukuoka
36 represents Kyushu (the 36th largest island in the world) and the 3 represents surprise, excitement, and happiness. In addition, "39" is pronounced like "Thank You" in Japanese.[ 9]
DMU
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Aso Boy
あそぼーい!
KiHa 183-1000 series
4
Seating
June 2011
KiHa 183 series
Kumamoto
Converted from former Yufu DX .[ 10]
A-Train
A列車で行こう
KiHa 185 series
2
Seating
October 2011
KiHa 185 series
Kumamoto
Equipped with a bar that serve local alchoholic beverages, and narration of the legend of Urashima Taro.
Two Stars 4047
ふたつ星4047
KiHa 47/40/147
3
Seating
August 2022
KiHa 47
–
Converted from former Hayato no Kaze and an additional KiHa 40 car.
Ibusuki no Tamatebako
指宿のたまて箱
KiHa 47/140
3
Seating
March 2011
KiHa 47
Kagoshima
[ 11] KiHa 140 series car converted from former Hayato no Kaze car in March 2012.[ 12] When the door opens, white smoke resembling that from a Tamatebako are dispensed from the top of the door.
Umisachi Yamasachi
海幸山幸
KiHa 125-400
2
Seating
October 2009
TR 400
Miyazaki
Converted from former Takachiho Railway TR 400. Offers handmade picture-stories for sale on board.
Kawasemi Yamasemi
かわせみ やませみ
KiHa 47
2
Seating
2017
KiHa 47
-
Yufuin no Mori
ゆふいんの森
KiHa 71 series
4
Seating
1989
KiHa 58/65 series
Chikuho
New Yufuin no Mori
新ゆふいんの森
KiHa 72 series
4
Seating
1999
Purpose-built
Chikuho
Aru Ressha
或る列車
KiRoShi 47
2
Seating
August 2015
KiHa 47
Oita
[ 13]
Kampachi Ichiroku
かんぱち・いちろく
2R Series
3
Seating
April 2024
KiHa 40 & KiHa 125
Saga
Converted from former Isaburo Shinpei trainset using two KiHa 47 cars and one KiHa 125 car.
Aso Boy , January 2023
A-Train , January 2023
Ibusuki no Tamatebako , February 2011
Ibusuki no Tamatebako dispensing mist upon door opening
Yufuin no Mori , August 2017
New Yufuin no Mori , January 2023
Aru Ressha , October 2015
Two Stars 4047
Kawasemi Yamasemi
Loco hauled
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Seven Stars in Kyushu
ななつ星in九州
77 series
7
Sleeping car
October 2013
Purpose-built
Ōita
[ 14]
Past Joyful Train sets
JNR
DMU
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Withdrawn
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Batten Nagasaki
ばってんNAGASAKI
KiHa 58 Series
2
Tatami
1985
December 1986
KiHa 28 series
Nagasaki
Karaokes and Mahjong tables were installed in the two cars, KiHa 28-2006 and KiHa 28-2114.
Rakuda
らくだ
KiHa 58 Series
2 (initial), 4 (final)
Seating
1983 (initial introduction)
1987
KiHa 58 series
Kagoshima
Has a Karaoke machine. Retired due to the Privatisation of JNR and was converted into Yutopia and Kichishiroku .
Loco hauled
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Withdrawn
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Miyabi
みやび
14-800 series
7
Tatami
March 1986
28 December 1986
14 series
Miyahara, Osaka
Withdrawn following fatal accident .
JR Hokkaido
DMU
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Withdrawn
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Furano Express
フラノエクスプレス
KiHa 80 series
4
Seating
December 1986
November 1998
KiHa 80 series
Naebo
KiHa 84-1 + KiHa 80-501 + KiHa 83-1 + KiHa 84-101
Mountain Lake Onuma
マウントレイク大沼
KiHa 80 series
3
Seating
July 1999
2002
KiHa 80 series
Naebo
Converted from former "Tomamu & Sahoro Express".
Tomamu & Sahoro Express
トマムサホロエクスプレス
KiHa 80 series
5
Seating
December 1987
July 1999
KiHa 80 series
Naebo
Converted to become "Mountain Lake Onuma".
Alpha Continental Express
アルファコンチネンタルエクスプレス
KiHa 59 series
3/4
Seating
December 1985
1995
KiHa 59 series
Naebo
Replaced from "Furano Express".
Niseko Express
ニセコエクスプレス
KiHa 183-5000 series
3
Seating
December 1988
November 2017
KiHa 183 series
Naebo
Asahiyama Dobutsuen
旭山動物園号
KiHa 183 series
5
Seating
April 2007
March 2018
KiHa 183 series
Sapporo
Crystal Express Tomamu & Sahoro
クリスタルエクスプレス トマム・サホロ
KiHa 183-5100 series
4
Seating
December 1989
September 2019
KiHa 183 series
Naebo
Initially 3 cars
North Rainbow Express
ノースレインボーエクスプレス
KiHa 183-5200 series
5
Seating
July 1992
2023
KiHa 183 series
Naebo
Kutsurogi (KiHa 29)
くつろぎ
KiHa 29 series
3
Tatami
1973
1997
KiHa 27 series
Sapporo
First iteration of "Kutsurogi". Originally painted in regular JNR colors with a green band. Supplanted by a KiHa 59 based trainset in 1984.
Kutsurogi (KiHa 56)
くつろぎ
KiHa 56-500
2
Tatami
1984
1997
KiHa 56 series
Sapporo
The cars were named "Onuma" and "Toyako". Scrapped in 1997 along with the KiHa 29 based set.
Kutsurogi (KiHa 400)
くつろぎ
KiHa 400-500
3
Tatami
1998
2015
KiHa 56 series
Sapporo
Kutsurogi (KiHa 183)
くつろぎ
KiHa 183-6000 series
3
Tatami
1999
2015/2022
KiHa 183 series
Sapporo
KiHa 182-6001 was scrapped in 2015 while the remaining cars operated in a 2 car set. They were repainted into regular JR Hokkaido Limited Express color scheme and the "Kutsurogi" nameplate was dropped. The set was scrapped in 2022.
Furano Express KiHa 80 series DMU, 1990
Mountain Lake Onuma KiHa 80 series DMU
Tomamu & Sahoro Express KiHa 80 series DMU, 1992
Alpha Continental Express KiHa 59 series DMU in 1994
Kutsurogi (KiHa 29) in 1986
Kutsurogi (KiHa 56-552) in 1991
Kutsurogi (KiHa 400-502)
Kutsurogi (KiHa 183-6101) in 2009
JR East
EMU
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Withdrawn
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Joyful Train Alpha
ジョイフルトレイン・アルファ
165 series
3
Seating
December 1995
May 2001
165 series
Niigata
Converted from Shuttle Maihama .
Ayano
彩野
183 series
6
Seating
March 2006
2011
183 series
Nikkō
Replaced by 253 series .
IZU CRAILE
伊豆クレイル
651 series
4
Seating
July 2016
March 2020
651 series
Izu
The name "CRAILE" came from C (Cool), Rail, and E (Elegant). Jointly operated by JR East and Izukyū Corporation .
FruiTea Fukushima
フルーティアふくしま
719-700 series
2
Seating
2015
Dec 24th, 2023
719 series
Sendai
Will be replaced by SATONO .
Iroha
いろは
205-600 series
4
Seating
2018
11 March 2022
205-600 series
2 doors removed per side and LCD screen inserted.
Nanohana
なのはな
165 series
6
Tatami
March 1986
August 1998
165 series
Chiba
First EMU-based Joyful Train. Replaced by New Nanohana .
New Nanohana
ニューなのはな
485 series
6
Tatami
February 1998
August 2016
485 series
Makuhari, Chiba
Resort Yamadori
リゾートやまどり
485 series
6
Seating
2011
11 December 2022
485 series
Takasaki
Rebuilt from former Seseragi and two cars of former Yamanami .[ 10] Last 485 series train in service.
Zipangu
ジパング
485 series
4
Seating
1 April 2012
10 October 2021
485 series
Rebuilt from former Yamanami end cars and two 485-3000 series intermediate cars.[ 15]
Panorama Express Alps
パノラマエクスプレスアルプス
165 series
6
Seating
March 1987
September 2001
165 series
Mitaka, Tokyo
Sold to Fuji Kyuko in December 2001.
Seseragi
せせらぎ
485 series
4
Tatami
March 2001
2010
485 series
Takasaki
Replaced loco-hauled Yasuragi set. Combined with Yamanami and rebuilt as Resort Yamadori .[ 10]
Shikisai
四季彩
201 series
4
Seating
April 2001
July 2009
201 series
Hachioji, Tokyo
A 4-car 201 series set (W1) was modified in 2001 by JR East to become the special Shikisai (四季彩) tourist train, entering service on the Ōme Line from 4 August 2001. This train featured panorama windows and transverse seating bays on one side of the train only. It was repainted into a new livery in June 2005. The train was withdrawn from regular service at the end of June 2009, with a number of special finale runs scheduled for July.
Irodori
彩
485 series
6
Seating/compartments
December 2006
30 September 2017
485 series
Nagano
No.Do.Ka
NO・DO・KA
485 series
3
Carpet
October 2001
7 January 2018
183/189 series
Niigata
Formerly Sylphide . Can be diesel-hauled. Cab car uses the same design as that on Panorama Express Alps .
Utage
宴
485 series
4
Tatami
June 1994
23 February 2019
485 series
Oyama
Hana
華
485 series
6
Tatami
March 1997
30 October 2022
485 series
Oyama
Resort Express Yū
リゾートエクスプレスゆう
485 series
6
Tatami
March 1991
2 January 2018
183/189 series
Mito
Can be diesel-hauled.
Shuttle Maihama
シャトルマイハマ
165 series
3
Seating
March 1990
December 1995
165 series
Chiba
Converted to become Joyful Train Alpha .
Sylphide
シルフィード
485 series
3
Seating
September 1990
2001
485 series
Niigata
Converted to No.Do.Ka
Yamanami
やまなみ
485 series
4
Tatami
April 1999
2010
485 series
Takasaki
Replaced loco-hauled Kutsurogi set. Intermediate cars combined with Seseragi and rebuilt as Resort Yamadori .[ 10] End cars rebuilt to form Zipangu .[ 15]
Kirakira Uetsu
きらきらうえつ
485 series
4
Seating
November 2001
29 September 2019
485 series
Niigata
Replaced by Kairi .
Genbi Shinkansen
現美新幹線
E3-700 series
6
Seating
2016
19 December 2020
E3 series Shinkansen
Niigata
Toreiyu
とれいゆ
E3-700 series
6
Seating (car 11), ozashiki (cars 12 to 14), lounge (car 15), ashiyu foot baths (car 16)
2014
6 March 2022
E3 Series Shinkansen
Yamagata
Operations ended in March 2022,[ 16] with its retirement likely spurred by a decline in ridership caused by COVID-19 restrictions.[ 17]
Nanohana 165 series EMU, 1990
Joyful Train Alpha
Panorama Express Alps 165 series EMU, 1990
Iroha 205-600 series EMU, October 2019
Interior of 205-600 series Iroha
Seseragi 485 series EMU, May 2009
Shuttle Maihama 165 series EMU, 1990
Yamanami , January 2010
Interior of 485 series Yamanami
E3-700 R18 Toreiyu , July 2014
Hana , October 2006
New Nanohana , July 2003
Nodoka , August 2009
Resort Express Yū , May 2006
Resort Yamadori , July 2011
Utage , September 2006
Interior of 485 series Utage
Zipangu , April 2017
Kirakira Uetsu , 2012
Genbi Shinkansen , 2016
Interior of E3 series Genbi Shinkansen
Fruitea Fukushima , April 2015
Ayano running a Nikkō Limited Express service
IZU CRAILE , 2016
DMU
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Withdrawn
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Furusato
ふるさと
KiHa 48-2500
3
Seating
April 2001
August 2016[ 18]
KiHa 48
Sendai
Converted from former Manyū set.
Kogane
こがね
KiHa 59
3
Seating
July 2003
July 2011
KiHa 58 series
Sendai
Converted from former Gracia set. Shipped to Philippines August 2011.[ 19]
Resort Minori
リゾートみのり
KiHa 48
3
Seating
October 2008
August 2020
KiHa 48 series
Sendai
Kirakira Michinoku
きらきらみちのく
KiHa 48
3
Seating
July 2002
November 2010
KiHa 48 series
Aomori
Converted into Resort Umineko
Resort Umineko
リゾートうみねこ
KiHa 48
3
Seating
April 2011
March 2020
KiHa 48 series
Iwate
Converted from Kirakira Michinoku .
Umineko
うみねこ
KiHa 48
2
Seating
2006
2011
KiHa 48 series
Iwate
Replaced by Resort Umineko . Train remained in use without Umineko badging till 2017.
Resort Asunaro
リゾートあすなろ
HB-E300
2
Seating
December 2010
August 2023
Purpose-Built
Aomori
2 sets in total. Converted to Hinabi and Satono .
Elegance Acky
エレガンスアッキー
KiHa 59
3
Seating
1985
1997
KiHa 28/58
Akita
Formerly operated by JNR.
Cruising Train
クルージングトレイン
KiHa 48
2
Seating
2011
2023
KiHa 48
Akita
Formerly Resort Shirakami "Aoike" (Replaced by HB-E300, Initially 4 cars).
Akita Cruise Train
あきたクルーズ号
KiHa 48
4
Seating
2010
2020
KiHa 48
Akita
Formerly Resort Shirakami "Buna" (Replaced by HB-E300). Exclusively operated between Akita and Akita Port for passengers of cruise ships calling there. In 2020, the train was replaced by non-dedicated GV-E400 series trains.
Salon Express Arcadia
サロンエクスプレスアルカディア
KiHa 58 series
3
Seating
1981
1988
KiHa 58/28 series
Niigata
Formerly 2 cars, central car added in 1985. Destroyed by fire in 1988. End cars repaired and used as spectator transport for 1992's Sanriku Expo, then rebuilt as Kenji .
Kenji
Kenji
KiHa 58 series
3
Seating
2002
2018
KiHa 58/28 series
Morioka
End cars converted from former Salon Express Arcadia set.
Obako
おばこ
KiHa 58 series
3
Tatami
1984
2004
KiHa 58 series
Akita
Formerly known as Komachi from 1991 until 1997, when the Komachi name was given to the Shinkansen service .
Edelweiss
エーデルワイス
KiHa 58 series
3
Seating
1988
2002
KiHa 58 series
Morioka
Carpet Car
カーペット車
KiHa 58 series
4
Carpet
1985
2002
KiHa 58 series
Niigata
Replaced by Nodoka in 2002
KiHa 48 Furusato operating as a 2-car formation in November 2007
Resort Minori , April 2020
The two Resort Asunaro sets in December 2010
Kirakira Michinoku
Resort Umineko
Umineko
Akita Cruise Train , 2019
Obako while in service as Komachi
Paintscheme of the Elegance Acky
Loco hauled
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Withdrawn
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Edo
江戸
12 series
6
Tatami
February 1986
March 2003
12 series
Shinagawa
Fureai
ふれあい
SuRo 81 series
6
Tatami
March 1980
July 1990
SuRo 62 series
Mito
Fureai Ai
ふれあい愛
12 series
6
Tatami
1980
1990
12 series
Nagano
Fureai Michinoku
ふれあいみちのく
12 series
6
Tatami
July 1986
May 2002
12 series
Morioka
Kutsurogi (JR East)
くつろぎ
12 series
6
Tatami
June 1983
September 1999
12 series
Takasaki
Nagoyaka
なごやか
12 series
6
Tatami
March 1981
July 1997
12 series
Oku, Tokyo
Nostalgic View Train
ノスタルジックビュートレイン
JNR 50 series [ja ]
2 x 3-car sets
Seating
1990
1997
50 series
Akita
Hauled by dedicated Class DE10 diesel locomotives. Replaced by Resort Shirakami DMU[ 1]
Orient Saloon
オリエントサルーン
12 series
6
Tatami
January 1987
November 2000
12 series
Fukushima
Ozashiki Ressha
お座敷列車 ("カヌ座")
12 series
7
Tatami
July 1981
February 2002
12 series
Niigata
Roman
浪漫
14 series
6
Tatami
November 1995
March 2007
14 series
Nagano
Repainted to gold and wine red in 2000. Replaced Shirakaba and replaced by Irodori .
Salon Express Tokyo
サロンエクスプレス東京
14 series
7
Seating
August 1983
January 1997
14 series
Shinagawa
Converted to become Yutori trainset.
Shirakaba
白樺
12 series
6
Tatami
July 1983
November 1995
12 series
Nagano
Withdrawn and replaced by Roman .
Super Express Rainbow
スーパーエクスプレスレインボー
12/14 series
7
Seating
March 1987
March 2000
12/14 series
Oku
Yasuragi
やすらぎ
12 series
6
Tatami
April 1986
March 2001
12 series
Takasaki
Sold to Watarase Railway, becoming "Salon de Watarase".
Yutori
ゆとり
14 series
6
Tatami
May 1997
March 2008
14 series
Oku, Tokyo
Converted from former Salon Express Tokyo trainset.
SL Ginga
SL銀河
KiHa 141 series
4
Seating
12 April 2014[ 20]
11 June 2023
KiHa 141 series
Iwate
JR Central
EMU
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Withdrawn
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Train117
トレイン117
117 series
4
Seating
August 2010
21 July 2013 (final run)[ 21]
117 series
Ōgaki
KuHa 116-206 + MoHa 116-45 + MoHa 117-45 + KuHa 117-23
Yū Yū Tōkai
ゆうゆう東海
165 series
3
Seating
July 1989
November 1999
165 series
Shizuoka
Kumoha 165-701 + MoHa 164-701 + KuHa 165-701
DMU
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Withdrawn
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Resort Liner
リゾートライナー
KiHa 80 series
3
Seating
July 1988
March 1995
KiHa 80 series
Nagoya
KiRo 82-801 + KiRo 80-791 + KiRo 80-801
Loco hauled
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Withdrawn
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Ikoi
いこい
12 series
6
Tatami
1982
February 1997
12 series
Numazu → Nagoya
The cars remained in regular 12 Series paint scheme, unlike other Joyful Train sets. It's the second time the name Ikoi has been used for a named train in Japan, as it was used before by JNR.
Euroliner
ユーロライナー
12-700 series
7
Seating
August 1985
April 2005
12 series
Nagoya
Euroliner liveried locos: EF64 35/66 EF65 105/106/112 DD51 592/791/1037
Ozashiki Ressha
お座敷列車 ("ナコ座")
12 series
6
Tatami
March 1983
October 1999
12 series
Nagoya
JR West
EMU
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Withdrawn
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Super Saloon Yumeji
スーパーサルーンゆめじ
211 series /213 series
3
Seating
1988
March 2010
Purpose-built
Okayama
KuMoRo 211-1 + MoRo 210-1 + KuRo 212-1001
DMU
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Withdrawn
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Edel Tango
エーデル丹後
KiHa 65 series
2
Seating
July 1988
March 1996
KiHa 65 series
Kyoto
KiHa 65 601 + KiHa 65 1601 Operated in conjunction with 183-800 series Kitakinki EMU services between Osaka.
Edel Tottori
エーデル鳥取
KiHa 65 series
4
Seating
March 1989
October 1999
KiHa 65 series
Kyoto
Edel
エーデル
KiHa 65 series
4
Seating
December 1989
October 2004
KiHa 65 series
Kyoto
YUtopia
ゆぅトピア
KiHa 65 series
2
Seating/Carpet
December 1986
March 1995
KiHa 65 series
Kanazawa
KiRo 65 1 + KiRo 65 1001 Operated in conjunction with 485 series Raichō EMU services between Kyoto and Osaka.
Resort Saloon Festa
リゾートサルーン・フェスタ
KiHa 58 series
3
Seating
July 1988
November 2001
KiHa 58 series
Hiroshima
KiRo 59 552 + KiRo 29 553 + KiRo 59 553. The "mouth" in the front of the train can open.
VIVA West
ビバ・ウエスト
KiHa 59 series
2
Seating
August 1989
March 1999
KiHa 58 series
Yamaguchi
KiHa 59 501 + KiHa 29 501
Seychelle
セイシェル
KiHa 58 series
3
Seating/Carpet
October 1989
January 2005
KiHa 58 series/12 series
Fukuchiyama
KiRo 59 554 + KiSaRo 59 501 + KiRo 59 555
Golden Express Astre
ゴールデンエクスプレスアストル
KiHa 65 /KiHa 58 series
3
Seating
March 1988
December 2006
KiHa 65/KiHa 58 series
Kanazawa
KiRo 65 551 + KiRo 29 552 + KiRo 65 1551
Fureai Pal
ふれあいパル
KiHa 58 series
2
Carpet
April 1986
October 2007
KiHa 58 series
Hiroshima
KiRo 59 504 + KiRo 29 503
Fureai Sun-in
ふれあいSUN-IN
KiHa 58 series
3
Tatami
April 1986
July 2008
KiHa 58 series
Yonago
KiRo 59 506 + KiRo 59 505 + KiRo 29 507
Honobono Sun-in
ほのぼのSUN-IN
KiHa 58 series
2
Tatami
November 1987
November 2009
KiHa 58 series
Yonago
KiRo 59 551 + KiRo 29 551
Misuzu Shiosai
みすゞ潮彩
KiHa 47
2
Seating
July 2007
January 2017
KiHa 47
Yamaguchi
Converted to become Maru Maru No Hanashi [1] [2]
Tenkū no shiro Takedajōato
天空の城 竹田城跡号
KiHa 40
1
Seating
March 2015
May 2019
KiHa 40
Hyōgo
Converted to become Umiyamamusubi
Setouchi Marine View
瀬戸内マリンビュー
KiHa 47
2
Seating
October 2005
December 2019
KiHa 47
Hiroshima
Converted to become etSETOra [3]
Setouchi Marine View , 2005
Misuzu Shiosai
Tenku no Shiro Takedajoato , 2015
Seychelle
Resort Saloon Festa
Honobono Sun-In
Fureai Pal
Fureai Sun-In
Loco hauled
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Withdrawn
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Holiday Pal
ホリデーパル
JNR 20 series [ja ] /14 series
8
Compartments
June 1984
September 1997
20/14 series
Hiroshima
Ozashiki Kyakusha Joyful Train
お座敷客車ジョイフルトレイン
12 series
6
Tatami
July 1981
1989
12 series
Wakayama
Withdrawn 1989 and converted to become Ikiiki Salon Kinokuni .
Ikiiki Salon Kinokuni
いきいきサロンきのくに
12 series
6
Tatami
September 1989
June 2007
12 series
Wakayama
Converted from former Ozashiki Kyakusha Joyful Train .
Fukuchiyama Ikoi
いこい
12 series
1
Mixed
April 1985
1989
12 series
Fukichiyama
Half in Japanese style, half in Western style. Later incorporated into Seychelle .
Tabiji
旅路
12-800 series
6
Tatami
July 1981
30 September 2007
12 series
Hiroshima
[ 22]
Wakuwaku Danran
わくわく団らん
12 series
6
Tatami
July 1982
December 2006
12 series
Kanazawa
Yuu Yuu Salon Okayama
ユウユウサロン岡山
12 series
6
Seating
November 1985
March 2011
12 series
Okayama
Originally named "ゆうゆうサロン岡山". Refurbished and repainted in January 1994.
Asuka
あすか
12 series /14 series
7
Tatami/Seating
November 1987
31 March 2018
12/14 series
Miyahara, Osaka
[ 23]
SL Yamaguchi (12 series)
SLやまぐち号(12系)
12 series
5
Seating
July 1988
September 2017
12 series
Yamaguchi
Sold to Ōigawa Railway in February 2018.
Okuizumo Orochi
奥出雲おろち号
12 series
2
Seating
April 1998
November 2023
12 series
Goto
Replaced by Ametuchi . Had a dedcicated locomotive.
SL Kita-Biwako
SL北びわこ号
12 series
5
Seating
August 1995
November 2019
12 series
Shiga
JR Shikoku
DMU
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Withdrawn
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Island Express Shikoku II
アイランドエクスプレス四国II
KiHa 185 series
2
Seating
August 1999
2021
KiHa 185 series
Takamatsu
KiRo 186 4 + KiRo 186 8
Iyonada Monogatari (KiHa 47)
伊予灘ものがたり
KiHa 47
2
Seating
2014
2021
KiHa 47 series
Tadotsu
Replaced by a KiHa 185 based train with the same name.
Tabidachi
旅立ち
KiHa 58 Series
4
Seating
March 1987
April 1987
KiHa 58 series
Takamatsu
Modified to accommodate group excursions over the Great Seto Bridge .
Loco hauled
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Withdrawn
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Island Express Shikoku
アイランドエクスプレス四国
JNR 50 series [ja ]
5
Seating
March 1987
May 1999
50 series
Takamatsu
JR Kyushu
DMU
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Withdrawn
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Aso 1962
あそ1962
KiHa 58 series
2
Seating
July 2006
26 December 2010
KiHa 58 series
Kumamoto
Hayato no Kaze
はやとの風
KiHa 47/147
2
Seating
March 2004
March 2022
KiHa 47
Kagoshima
Former KiHa 140 series car converted to become Ibusuki no Tamatebako car in March 2012.[ 12] Rest of the train was converted to become Two Stars 4047 .
Holland Village Express
オランダ村特急
KiHa 183-1000 series
4
Seating
20 March 1988
July 1992
Purpose-built
–
Operated in conjunction with 485 series Ariake EMU services between Kokura and Hakata. Converted to become Yufuin no Mori II .
Siebold
シーボルト
KiHa 183-1000 series
4
Seating
March 1999
March 2004
KiHa 183-1000 series
–
Converted from former Yufuin no Mori II . Converted to become Yufu DX . Named after German botanist Philipp Franz von Siebold .
Toro-Q
TORO-Q
KiHa 58 + ToRa 70000 + KiHa 65
5
Seating
October 2002
August 2010
KiHa 58 + ToRa 70000 + KiHa 65
–
DMU cars repainted and reverted to regular use following withdrawal of train.
Yufu DX
ゆふDX
KiHa 183-1000 series
4
Seating
March 2004
January 2011
KiHa 183-1000 series
Oita
Formerly Holland Village Express , Yufuin no Mori II , and Siebold . Withdrawn 10 January 2011 and converted to become Aso Boy .[ 10] [ 24]
Yufuin no Mori II
ゆふいんの森II
KiHa 183-1000 series
4
Seating
July 1992
March 1999
KiHa 183-1000 series
–
Converted from former Holland Village Express . Converted to become Siebold .
Isaburo Shinpei
いさぶろう・しんぺい
KiHa 47 series
3
Seating
2009
March 2023
KiHa 47 series
–
Converted to become Kampachi Ichiroku .
Aso 1962 , December 2006
Hayato no Kaze , July 2009
Holland Village Express KiHa 183-1000 series in 1990
Siebold KiHa 183-1000 series in 2000
Toro-Q set led by KiHa 65 36 in July 2008
Yufu DX in September 2009
Yufuin no Mori II KiHa 183-1000 series in July 1998
Loco hauled
Name
Japanese
Classification
No. of cars
Accommodation
Introduced
Withdrawn
Converted from
Depot/region
Remarks
Panorama Liner Southern Cross
パノラマライナーサザンクロス
12 series
6
Seating
March 1987
March 1994
12 series
Mojiko
SL Aso Boy
SLあそBOY
JNR 50 series [ja ]
3
Seating
August 1988
2005
50 series
Kumamoto
The train is nicknamed SL Hitoyoshi due to the engine's former static preservation location in Hitoyoshi . The steam engine used for the SL Aso Boy service broke down in August 2005, necessitating repairs and was eventually replaced by a JNR DE10 series diesel locomotive. Out of service due to repairs until 2009, the train was brought back into service as the SL Hitoyoshi .
SL Hitoyoshi
SL人吉
JNR 50 series [ja ]
3
Seating
2009
March 2024
50 series
Kumamoto
In 2009, the SL Hitoyoshi name is made official with Aso 1962 taking over the Aso line from the former SL Aso Boy . Ran as SL Kimetsu no Yaiba in 2020 as collaboration with the movie. Due to the age of the locomotive, JR Kyushu withdrew the SL Hitoyoshi from service in March 23 2024.
See also
References
^ a b c Jēāru zensharyō handobukku: Rail Magazine 2009 JR全車輌ハンドブック2009 [JR Rolling Stock Handbook 2009 ] (in Japanese). Japan: Neko Publishing. 2009. p. 410. ISBN 978-4-7770-0836-0 .
^ Ogano, Minoru (2009). ジョイフルトレイン図鑑: 国鉄からJrへ。時代を駆け抜けた花形列車の記録 ジョイフルトレイン図鑑 [Joyful Train Directory ]. Tokyo, Japan: JTB Can Books. ISBN 978-4-533-07720-3 .
^ "せとうちを中心とした広域的な観光の推進に向けた観光列車の導入について 車両名称「ラ・マル・ド・ボァ」:JR西日本" . westjr.co.jp .
^ "新たな長距離列車の列車名・エクステリア・設備愛称名の決定について" (Press release). 西日本旅客鉄道 . 21 March 2019. Retrieved 19 March 2019 .
^ "城端線・氷見線観光列車「べるもんた」の車両が完成しました:JR西日本" . westjr.co.jp .
^ "七尾線観光列車の列車名決定について 「花嫁のれん」:JR西日本" . westjr.co.jp .
^ "岡山県北部エリアへ向けた観光列車の導入について 車両名称「ノスタルジー」:JR西日本" . westjr.co.jp .
^ "絶景の山陰線を駆ける、新観光列車の列車名とデザインについて:JR西日本" . westjr.co.jp .
^ "黒い787「36ぷらす3」2020年 秋 運行開始!" (PDF) (Press release) (in Japanese). Kyushu Railway Company. 21 November 2019. Retrieved 27 July 2020 .
^ a b c d e JR東日本 485系改造車"リゾートやまどり" [JR East converted 485 series "Resort Yamadori"]. Tetsudō Daiya Jōhō Magazine . Vol. 40, no. 327. Japan: Kōtsū Shimbun. July 2011. p. 70.
^ JR九州 キハ47形改造車 "指宿のたまて箱" [JR Kyushu converted KiHa 47 Ibusuki no Tamatebako ]. Tetsudō Daiya Jōhō Magazine . Vol. 40, no. 324. Japan: Kōtsū Shimbun. April 2011. pp. 80–81.
^ a b キハ140 2066が「指宿のたまて箱」仕様になって出場 [KiHa 140 2066 outshopped as Ibusuki no Tamatebako car]. Japan Railfan Magazine Online (in Japanese). Japan: Koyusha Co., Ltd. 20 March 2012. Retrieved 20 March 2012 .
^ 「或る列車」としてデビュー! キロシ47形 [KiRoShi 47 series debuts as "Aru Ressha"]. Japan Railfan Magazine (in Japanese). Vol. 55, no. 654. Japan: Koyusha Co., Ltd. October 2015. pp. 66–68.
^ JR九州:豪華列車「ななつ星」 来年10月から運行 [JR Kyushu deluxe train Seven Stars in service from October 2013]. Mainichi jp (in Japanese). Japan: The Mainichi Newspapers. 28 May 2012. Archived from the original on 1 July 2012. Retrieved 29 May 2012 .
^ a b 485系ジョイフルトレイン「ジパング」 [485 series Zipangu Joyful Train]. Japan Railfan Magazine . Vol. 52, no. 614. Japan: Kōyūsha Co., Ltd. June 2012. p. 90.
^ "ありがとう とれいゆ つばさ:JR東日本" . jreast.co.jp (in Japanese). Retrieved 22 January 2023 .
^ "Farewell Toreiyu Tsubasa: It's hard to say goodbye..." JR Times . Retrieved 22 January 2023 .
^ JR東 "ふるさと"廃車回送 [JR East "Furusato" sent for scrapping]. RM News (in Japanese). Japan: Neko Publishing Co., Ltd. 7 September 2016. Archived from the original on 7 September 2016. Retrieved 7 September 2016 .
^ 車両のうごき2011-2012 [Rolling Changes 2011-2012]. Japan Railfan Magazine . Vol. 52, no. 615. Japan: Koyusha Co., Ltd. July 2012. pp. 88–89.
^ "SL銀河"が営業運転を開始 ["SL Ginga" enters revenue service]. Japan Railfan Magazine Online (in Japanese). Japan: Koyusha Co., Ltd. 14 April 2014. Retrieved 14 April 2014 .
^ JR東海「Train117」の運用終了 [JR Central "Train117" withdrawn from service]. Japan Railfan Magazine Online (in Japanese). Japan: Koyusha Co., Ltd. 22 July 2013. Retrieved 6 August 2013 .
^ 消えた車輌写真館 [Disappeared Rolling Stock Photo Gallery]. Tetsudo Hobidas (in Japanese). Japan: Neko Publishing. 26 September 2011. Retrieved 26 September 2011 .
^ 交友社 『鉄道ファン 』2018年7月号 「JR旅客会社の車両配置表」
^ 観光列車「あそ1962」、特急「ゆふDX」さよなら企画について [Details of "Aso 1962" and "Yufu DX" Sayonara Schedule] (Press release) (in Japanese). JR Kyushu. 20 October 2010. Retrieved 21 October 2010 .[permanent dead link ]
Further reading
日本を満喫できるリゾート列車完全ガイド [Complete Resort Train Guide to Enjoy Japan ] (in Japanese). Japan: Kasakura Publishing Co., Ltd. February 2014. ISBN 978-4773087055 .
External links