This may sound sudden, but just imagine: there was someone you were fond of — someone who caught your attention. One day, they suddenly moved away and never came back. You feel a quiet loneliness without them. Have you ever experienced something like that?
So, what am I trying to say?
On October 2nd, Seibu Railway announced that the regular services of the 2000 series EMUs would be withdrawn from the Ikebukuro, Toshima, Sayama, and Chichibu lines by October 15th.
Let’s take a quick look back at the Seibu 2000 series. The 2000 series EMU debuted in 1977 to strengthen Seibu Railway’s transportation capacity. There were two types: the original 2000 series, which were retired in June this year, and the newer 2000N series. This time, it’s the 2000N series that have left the Ikebukuro and related lines.
As you know, the Ikebukuro Line is Seibu Railway’s main artery. The 2000N series, with their bright yellow bodies, were the quintessential Seibu trains. This combination was inseparable — and yet, it has come to an abrupt end. I can’t help but feel a bit lonely without them.
Pulling myself together — please take a look at my photos.
This is the special poster train featuring Set 2071 of the 2000N series EMU, celebrating the 100th anniversary of Kiyose Station on the Ikebukuro Line. The commemorative train ran from June 2024 to March 2025. In the end, it turned out to be my last chance to photograph the 2000N series on the Ikebukuro Line.
Thank you, the 2000N series on the Ikebukuro Line. Let’s meet again on the Shinjuku Line.
