Today, I’d like to share a topic for old-school trainspotters. The E257-5000 series is JR East’s rolling stock used for extra train services, mainly operated on weekends and during holiday seasons. This model was originally introduced as the EMU E257-0 series, which served as the Azusa and Kaiji limited express trains on the Chuo Main Line.
After nearly 20 years in operation, three trainsets—27 cars in total—were modified into the E257-5000 series in 2021 at JR East’s Nagano Factory. These are sets OM-91, OM-92, and OM-93. Each trainset consists of five motorcars and four trailers (5M4T).
So, what are the differences between the older E257-0 and the newer E257-5000 series? Basically, they are the same type, but the new version features a different color scheme. The E257-5000 wears fresh green-colored stripes. In addition, it is equipped with baggage spaces for passenger convenience.
I happened to encounter set OM-93 at Tokyo Station last August. It was operating as the extra train Atami Fireworks Festival. As the name suggests, this train carried passengers heading to Atami City to enjoy the fireworks, running on the Tokaido Main Line.
I was delighted to observe the “two different faces” of this train. The southern end has no gangway (see the top photo), while the northern end is equipped with one (see the photo below). Discovering such subtle differences is one of the greatest pleasures for trainspotters like me.
If you have time, please also take a look at my previous posts about the EMU E257-2000 and E257-5500.
