I recently visited Yokohama City to take care of some errands. After finishing my meeting, I stopped by Shinmachi Railyard near Kanagawa-shinmachi Station on the Keikyu Line for a stroll. Since I had spent quite a while in the downtown area, by the time I got off the train at Kanagawa-shinmachi, the sun had already set. It was around 7 p.m. The day had been very hot, but in the evening a pleasant breeze made the air feel refreshing.
As soon as I reached the railway crossing beside Shinmachi Railyard, my eyes were caught by many trains preparing for departure. They were mainly the EMU 1000 and 1500 series. These red-colored trains are, of course, beautiful in daylight, but in the evening they take on a mysterious charm. Under the yard lights and signal lamps, they gleamed brightly. I especially love the contrast between the vivid red trains and the deep-blue twilight sky. It was such a relaxing moment.
Incidentally, Shinmachi Railyard is the second largest depot on the Keikyu network. Opened in 1953, it can accommodate up to 250 train units. The EMU 600, 1000 and 1500 series are based here, along with several work trains—DeTo 11, 12, 17, and 18. The railyard also handles maintenance and inspections for 4- and 6-car formations. Another point worth mentioning is the automatic washing machine. Thanks to this facility, Keikyu trains are always kept shining clean.
