To begin with, I have a question.
Do you know the Japanese word “ibushigin”?
Its literal meaning is something like “oxidized silver,” but it has a deeper meaning. To me, “ibushigin” describes someone who has stood the test of time and has a quiet, understated charm. In English, it is close to the idea of a “seasoned veteran”—an accomplished player, actor, or craftsman, for example.
Here’s my next question: Is there any train like “ibushigin” in your country?
Japan certainly does! We have many trains that I would describe as “ibushigin.” But if I have to choose one, I’ll go with Tobu’s Series 10000 EMU!
That’s what today’s post is about. It’s been thirteen years since I last featured this train.
Seeing is believing. So, take a look at the photos.
There it is: the Series 10000—the “Ibushigin Train.”
So, why do I think of the Series 10000 as an “ibushigin” train?
First, it looks rather old, but its stainless-steel body still has a distinctive, subdued shine.
Second, its frontal design looks sturdy. The Series 10000 is quite different from the earlier Series 9000, which has a simpler “flat face.”
Third, the corrugated panels on its sides also give the train a solid, sturdy appearance. They were originally designed to cover the welded plates and hide uneven areas. You don’t see these corrugated panels on the latest stainless-steel trains anymore, thanks to advances in technology.
Fourth, its rooftops are lined with air-conditioning units. As you know, modern trains generally have just one large, simple air-conditioning unit on each car.
Of course, modern trains are beautiful, too. But I’m more drawn to the “Ibushigin Train,” whose appearance reflects its long history. Its long history seems to show in every detail.
And for those of you who enjoy the technical side of railways, here are a few details about the Series 10000
The Series 10000 EMU is Tobu Railway’s 1,500 V DC commuter train, developed in 1983 as a successor to the Series 8000 EMU. A total of 118 units were built by Tokyu Sharyo, Alna Sharyo, and Fuji Heavy Industries. It features a 20-meter-long stainless-steel body, a field chopper control system, regenerative braking, and so on. Regenerative braking is particularly useful when descending the steep gradients on the Nikko Line.
I sincerely hope this Ibushigin Train will continue running safely for as long as possible.
