The poster train (set T24 of the EMU JR East E233 series) arrives at Kunitachi station
The Chuo line (or the Chuo main line) is one of the Japanese trunk railway routes penetrating steep mountains on Honshu Island (the main land of Japan). Connecting Tokyo and Nagoya, its total length is 396.6 kilometers. The eastern part of the route is a busy commuter line, where 10-car commuter trains are continuously operated.
The origin of the Chuo line was very old. It was initially opened between Shinjuku and Tachikawa stations (27.2 kilometers) by Kobu Railway on April 11th, 1889. So, this year is the 130th anniversary of the Chuo line. JR East Hachioji Branch Office, which is one of the train operators on the line, is conducting various anniversary events. For example, they launched a special poster train, set T27 of the EMU E233 series, on April 6th celebrating the 130th anniversary. Set T27 train has simple orange colored bodies, which are similar with those of a former Chuo line train, namely the EMU 201 series. The 130th anniversary logo, which was designed by the railway employees of Tachikawa station, are also displayed on the bodies of set T27 train.
Along with the poster train, JR East Hachioji Branch Office gives passengers special gifts. For instance, they win products on the Chuo line by lottery. The wines produced near Katsunuma-budokyo station are popular prizes. Rail-fans and kids could enjoy a Chuo line train driving experience using the simulator at Tachikawa station on April 13th.
The Chuo line era is going to continue.
The origin of the Chuo line was very old. It was initially opened between Shinjuku and Tachikawa stations (27.2 kilometers) by Kobu Railway on April 11th, 1889. So, this year is the 130th anniversary of the Chuo line. JR East Hachioji Branch Office, which is one of the train operators on the line, is conducting various anniversary events. For example, they launched a special poster train, set T27 of the EMU E233 series, on April 6th celebrating the 130th anniversary. Set T27 train has simple orange colored bodies, which are similar with those of a former Chuo line train, namely the EMU 201 series. The 130th anniversary logo, which was designed by the railway employees of Tachikawa station, are also displayed on the bodies of set T27 train.
Along with the poster train, JR East Hachioji Branch Office gives passengers special gifts. For instance, they win products on the Chuo line by lottery. The wines produced near Katsunuma-budokyo station are popular prizes. Rail-fans and kids could enjoy a Chuo line train driving experience using the simulator at Tachikawa station on April 13th.
The Chuo line era is going to continue.
Side view of the 13th anniversary poster train