Saturday 21 April 2012

Start of Operation, Retro-EMU on the Metro Line


Set number 1 of the new EMU Tokyo Metro 1000 series on the Subway Ginza Line

As I introduced in my blog on February 4th, the Ginza Line is the oldest subway in Japan. It was partially opened between Ueno and Asakusa (2.2km) in 1927. Then, the entire route, between Shibuya and Asakusa (14.3km), was fully opened in 1934 by Tokyo Subway Company (present Tokyo Metro). Today, the Ginza Line has grown to become one of Japan's representative commuter lines.

On April 11th, a new EMU, the 1000 series opened a new era on this historical subway line (see the above photo). It has a retro-flavored designed similar to that of the original Type 1000 electric car, which is currently on display in the Subway Museum (see my blog on September 10th, 2011).

Although the exterior of the new 1000 series reminds us of a retro style, the performance and the facilities of this train are leading-edge. For example, all of the illumination lamps are LEDs, and it has achieved a reduction in its consumption of electricity.

Amazingly, Tokyo Metro had released the operation schedule of the new train on their company website. For sightseeing companies this may be possible, but it is unusual and pleasantly surprising that a commuter railway company would release such kind of information to the public. The company expects to increase its income through the opportunity of operating the new train. Times have changed.

Needless to say, by looking at the website, plenty of rail-fans are flocking to the stations on the Ginza Line to ride the new train. Of course, I am one of those who love trains.

Town scenery near Ginza Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line
(EMU Shinkansen 700 series is pictured center)

New promotion video of Tokyo Metro including the EMU 1000 series operation:
Special video of the new EMU 1000 series: