The 735-737 smallpox epidemic was a tragedy that afflicted much of Japan. Approximately 30% of Japanese people lost their lives at the time. The epidemic had significant social, economic, and religious effects throughout the country. When things returned to normal in 741, Emperor Shomu ordered to construct special Buddhist temples named "kokubunji" in all the provinces of Japan. That was the origin of Kokubunji City in Tokyo. Today, only rounded stones are placed indicating the pillar holes positions of the kokubunji in Kokubunji City, but I can feel that the ancient people were praying for social stability. History seems to repeat itself. Needless to say, it means the current COVID-19 calamity.
If you visit Kokubunji City, it's recommended that you use the "Legend Blue Train" on the Tamako line. Along with the "Tomato-colored" train, the Legend Blue Train is popular among rail fans. Its formal name is set 9104 (9104F) of the EMU Seibu 9000 series. Normally, the 9000 series has yellow-colored bodies, but 9104F has dark blue-colored ones.
Incidentally, the 9000 series debuted in 1993 reusing the old equipment of the retired 101 series. 8 sets, 80 cars in total, were built by Seibu Tokorozawa Factory. Due to reusing of equipment from the old train, the specification of the 9000 series was rather old. Seibu Railway converted the old rheostatic electric control system into the latest VVVF inverter (variable frequency drive) system in the mid-2000s.
We can enjoy both the historical site and the rare train in Kokubunji City.
