Tokyo Monorail, Water Front Line to the Airport

EMU Tokyo Monorail 1000 series (special color) arrives at Oi-keibajo-mae Station

As I introduced in my blog on July 9th, 2011, the Tokyo Monorail- Haneda Line is the oldest monorail, which adopts a straddle-beam system, in Tokyo. It was completed in 1964 as an airport access route from downtown Tokyo to Tokyo International Airport (Haneda).

One of the features of the Haneda Line is its railway track. Most of the sections were constructed on the canal-sides, the river-sides and the seashore. Obviously, it is because of saving construction cost. In this case, using the above places will be easy to secure construction sites for the monorail track. Look at the bottom photo. It is the track near Oi-keibajo-mae Station. You can see that the concrete track piers stand on the canal side.

This enables the passengers to secure superb views from the train windows. For instance, we can see the Tokyo Tower (a 333m high broadcasting tower), Rainbow Bridge (a road and Yurikamome-AGT railway line crossing the Tokyo Bay), Airstrips of the Tokyo International Airport and Mt. Fuji (3776m high, the highest mountain in Japan). For your information, you can enjoy the scenic views on the following website provided by cat2525jp.

 

Scenic veiw from the train window on the Haneda Line

Video: Courtesy "cat2525jp", large screen version is here



In Tokyo, pleasant air travel is initiated by enjoying superb views from the airport access monorail train.

EMU Tokyo Monorail 1000 series (standard color) runs by Keihin Canal

More scenic videos by "cat2525jp": http://www.youtube.com/user/cat2525jp

Joshin Electric Railway, Access to the Sakura Village

EMU Joshin KuHa 303 + DeHa 251 at Shimonita Station, Joshin Electric Railway

The weather report says the Sakura front (see my blog on April 22nd) has finally reached Aomori Prefecture, the northern end of Honshu Island (the main island of Japan). As I mentioned before, the Japanese spring is extremely beautiful and full of Sakura (cherry) blossoms.

The Sakura front travels not only to the north, but also climbs up the mountains. Look at the following picture. The sakuta is in full bloom in Myogi Sakura Village in Gunma Prefecture, 110km north of Tokyo. This area is well known for its precipitous mountains, and attracts many rock climbers. What's more, it is a famous spot for Sakura viewing. Currently, the sight of 47 different species and 5,000 Sakura trees fills the mountain.

To get to the Sakura Village, taking a local line, the Joshin Electric Railway, is convenient. Joshin connects Takasaki, a major city in Gunma Prefecture and Shimonita, a mountain foot town of Mt. Myogi. It was opened in 1897. The line is 33.7km long with 20 stations. It takes exactly one hour from Takasaki to Shimonita.

The EMU 200 and 300 series are leading trains on the Joshin Electric Railway (see the top photo). They were manufactured from 1964 to 1967 at Toyo Kouki Company and Seibu Tokorozawa Works. The classic designs steeped in history, such as the rounded double front lights and large cylindrical ventilators,  give passengers a nostalgic time.

Visiting Myogi Sakura Village and taking the Joshin Electric Railway is a perfect way to spend a spring weekend in the Tokyo metropolitan area.

Sakura (cherry) blossoms and Myogi Mountain near Shimonita Station, Joshin Electric Railway

More information about Joshin Electric Raylway (in Japanese):

http://www.joshin-dentetsu.co.jp/index.htm

Shimbashi SL Square, Meeting Spot for Oyaji

Steam locomotive C11292 preserved in front of Shimbashi Station

Do you have famous meeting spots in your country? Probably Times Square is the most well-known place in New York City in the US. Meanwhile, Piccadilly Circus must be famous among Londoners in the UK.

Meeting spots can also be found in Tokyo. For instance, the site of Hachiko's Statue in front of Shibuya Station is very popular among Tokyoites. Hachiko was a dog who went back and forth to Shibuya Station for 11 years to look for his master, who died in 1925. Many young people meet there, before enjoying shopping, going out for dinner, watching a movie and so on.

Meanwhile, SL Square next to Shimbashi Station is famous for "oyaji (middle-aged men)". On weekday evenings, a bunch of oyaji people meet there after office hours. The symbol of SL Square is a steam locomotive, ex-JNR (Japanese National Railways) C11292 (see the top photo).

Type C11 was launched in 1932 and operated a total of 381 units on the JNR lines. Number C11292 was manufactured in 1945, and had been used for freight transportation on the Sanyo Main Line. After retirement from the JNR, it was moved to Shimbashi and has been preserved there since 1972.

In the meantime, Shimbashi is famous as a restaurant and entertainment area, especially for oyaji people. Every night, many middle-aged company employees enjoy drinking, chatting and singing Karaoke for relieving stress from work.

SL Square is a gateway to the oasis for the stressful oyaji generation in Tokyo.
 

EMU JR East 233-1000 series rapid train passes through Shimbashi Station

Cat Whiskers in the Tobu Museum

Electric car MoHa 5701 of the EMU 5700 series in the Tobu Museum near Higashi-Mukojima Sta.

As I mentioned in my previous articles, there are several railway museums in the Tokyo Metropolitan area. They are the Railway Museum (see my blog on April 11th, 2011), the Subway Museum (see my blog on September 10th, 2011), Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park (see my blog on December 31st, 2011) and so on.

Today, I would like to introduce the other one, the Tobu Museum. This museum is located next to Higashi-Mukojima Station on the Tobu Line, in the eastern part of downtown Tokyo. It is operated by Tobu Railway Company, and displays historical trains, locomotives, buses and other precious heritages.

My favorite exhibit is an old electric car, MoHa 5701 of the EMU 5700 series. The 5700 series is the first generation of resort trains from downtown Tokyo to Nikko National Park. It was launched in 1951 as express train, Kegon (the name of a famous fall in the Nikko area).

After 40 year's operation on the line, the 5700 series retired in 1991. Then, it was moved to the present location, when the museum was opened. The most peculiar point of this train is its front face (see the top photo). Because of its unique design, it is called "Neko-hige (cat whiskers)" among rail fans. Thankfully, the interior of the train is also open to the public. So, we can see the train as it was.

Neko-hige, I want you to live a long time.

Interior of the electric car MoHa 5701 of the EMU 5700 series in the Tobu Museum

More information about theTobu Museum (in Japanese): http://www.tobu.co.jp/museum/

Nippori-Toneri Liner, Escape from the Lonely Island

EMU Toei 300 series arrives at Adachi-odai Station on the Nippori-Toneri Liner

Up to four years ago, the northern part of Sumida and the main part of Adachi Ward in Tokyo were isolated from the railway network. The local people were using bus services, but they were very slow due to traffic jams. Construction of a new railway line was essential for the residents.

In the mid 1980s, the government planned to construct a new subway line there, but it was deemed unprofitable. After long discussions, AGT was adopted as the system of the new line. As I mentioned before, AGT is an abbreviation for Automated Guide way Transit. It is a small sized train with rubber-tires instead of steel bogies.

In 2008, a new AGT line, Toei (Tokyo Metropolitan Government) Nippori-Toneri Liner was opened. It connects Nippori, in downtown Tokyo, and Minumadai-shinsuikouen, near to the boundary of Saitama Prefecture. The total operation length is 9.7km.

Currently, a 5-car EMU 300 series operates every 3.5 minutes in the week day morning, and every 7.5 to 10 minutes at other times of the day. All trains are fully automated, therefore, drivers and conductors are not on board. As a railfan, it is very attractive that passengers can secure a superb view from the train windows, because of the elevated track and no driving cabin at the front.

After opening the new line, the average number of passengers has grown steadily. It reached 59,034 persons per day in 2011, in excess of the target. The residents finally could escape from their onshore lonely island.

Platform of Adachi-Odai Station on the Toei Nippori-Toneri Liner

More information about Nippori-Toneri Liner:

http://www.kotsu.metro.tokyo.jp/eng/services/liner.html

Shinkansen in Spring Attire

Set number R20 of the Shinkansen E3 series decorated with Sakura design at Tokyo Station

In this season, the weather forecast informs us where the "front line" of the Sakura (cherry blossoms) is. Although Sakura blooming season has passed in Tokyo, the front line is still traveling up the northern part of Japan. A person traveling to the north with the "Sakura front" would be able to enjoy the blossoms for nearly three months.

To push the Sakura front up to the north, Shinkansen trains are now dressed in the spring fashion. They are the EMU JR East E2 and E3 series, decorated with Sakura designs, four sets each.

The E2 series was launched in 1997. Total 53 sets, 502 cars have been manufactured. They operate on the Tohoku Shinkansen with a maximum speed of 275km/hour, meanwhile 260km/hour on the Nagano Shinkansen.

The E3 series was also launched in 1997, when the Akita Shinkansen was opened. A total of 20 sets, 261 cars, have been manufactured. They are so called Mini-shinkansen, with a car length of 20m, whilst the standard full-sized shinkansen length is 25m. They operate with a maximum speed of 275km/hour on the Tohoku Shinkansen line, and 130km/hour on the Akita Shinkansen line.

The EMU E3 series operation is often coupled with the E2 series trains. We can see that the E3 series, Komachi, which leaves Tokyo, is often coupled with the E2 series, Hayate. Then, Komachi is detached after arriving at Morioka Station, and runs by itself to Akita, because the route between Morioka and Akita is constructed as a so-called Mini-shinkansen.

Set number J59 of the Shinkansen E2 series decorated with Sakura design at Tokyo Station

Start of Operation, Retro-EMU on the Metro Line

Set number 1 of the new EMU Tokyo Metro 1000 series on the Subway Ginza Line

As I introduced in my blog on February 4th, the Ginza Line is the oldest subway in Japan. It was partially opened between Ueno and Asakusa (2.2km) in 1927. Then, the entire route, between Shibuya and Asakusa (14.3km), was fully opened in 1934 by Tokyo Subway Company (present Tokyo Metro). Today, the Ginza Line has grown to become one of Japan's representative commuter lines.

On April 11th, a new EMU, the 1000 series opened a new era on this historical subway line (see the above photo). It has a retro-flavored designed similar to that of the original Type 1000 electric car, which is currently on display in the Subway Museum (see my blog on September 10th, 2011).

Although the exterior of the new 1000 series reminds us of a retro style, the performance and the facilities of this train are leading-edge. For example, all of the illumination lamps are LEDs, and it has achieved a reduction in its consumption of electricity.

Amazingly, Tokyo Metro had released the operation schedule of the new train on their company website. For sightseeing companies this may be possible, but it is unusual and pleasantly surprising that a commuter railway company would release such kind of information to the public. The company expects to increase its income through the opportunity of operating the new train. Times have changed.

Needless to say, by looking at the website, plenty of rail-fans are flocking to the stations on the Ginza Line to ride the new train. Of course, I am one of those who love trains.

Town scenery near Ginza Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line

(EMU Shinkansen 700 series is pictured center)

New promotion video of Tokyo Metro including the EMU 1000 series operation:

http://www.tokyometro.jp/corporate/ad/campaign_01/index.html

Special video of the new EMU 1000 series:

http://www.tokyometro.jp/series1000/movie/index.html

EMU E257 Series, Kaiji on the JR East Chuo Line

EMU JR East E257 series, Limited Express Kaiji runs by full blooming peach trees

As I introduced in my blog on October 1st, 2011, the EMU E351 series, Azusa, represents a train on the JR East Chuo Line. It is certainly a super-star with a tilting system for passing through tight curves in mountain ranges at high speed, but another star, the EMU E257 series, Kaiji, is also popular among travelers on the Chuo Line.

The E257 series has been manufactured since 2001 to replace decrepit express trains such as the EMU 165, 183 and 189 series. While the technical performance of the E257 series is below that of the E351 series, the E257 series has many attractive points for passengers. For example, its large windows, to enjoy gorgeous sceneries, result in satisfied railway travelers. Speaking as a passenger, between the two trains, I prefer the E257 series.

In the meantime, Yamanashi Prefecture on the Chuo Line is in the middle of spring. In addition to Sakura (cherry), now is the best time to view Momo (peach) blossoms (see the following photo). We can see delicate flowers of pink and pearl here and there. Of course, in the autumn, we will be able to enjoy the sweet and rich fruit.

In April, the E257 series, Limited Express Kaiji, runs by beautiful Momo blossoms (see the top photo). Passengers can enjoy looking at splendid clear streams and beautiful mountain ranges as well. Mt. Fuji also rises from the mountain ranges on a clear day. There must be something to excite the emotions of railway travelers.

Peach field near Kasugai Station on the JR East Chuo Line

Plum Grove and Local Train on the Shinetsu Line

EMU JR East 107 series local train on the Shinetsu Line

While it is Sakura (cherry blossoms) season in downtown Tokyo, plums are still blooming in the northern part of the Tokyo metropolitan area. I visited a plum grove at the foot of Mount Haruna in Gunma Prefecture to enjoy viewing them (see the following photo).

Haruna Plum Grove is one of the largest plantations in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Local people cultivate plum trees rather for fruit to eat than blossoms for viewing.

How do we eat the fruit? For example, umeboshi (pickled plum) is a traditional food consisting of preserved plum. The citric acid of umeboshi stimulates the appetite and helps people recover from fatigue, so, Japanese often place them in rice balls and boxed lunches. Another example, umeshu is a liqueur made by soaking unripe plums in crystal sugar and shochu (distilled spirit). Recently, umeshu is very popular among young women.

To visit Haruna plum grove, I took a local train on the JR East Shinetsu Line from Takasaki Station. A white EMU 107 series, with pink and green stripes, operates on the line (see the top photo).

This type of EMU was introduced in 1988 to replace the decrepit EMU 165 series trains. The design of the 107 series was taken over from that of JNR (Japanese National Railways) trains. Large rounded front lamps and characteristic air conditioner boxes on the roof provide us good examples of JNR style design.

View of Haruna Plum Grove near Annaka Station on the JR East Shinetsu Line

Bairin-zaka, Mysterious Spot in the City Center

Set number 20 of the EMU Toei (Tokyo Metropolitan Government) 6300 series

The Imperial Palace is a special area in Tokyo. Although it is surrounded by business districts, this area keeps a quiet and comfortable atmosphere in the city center.

The Imperial Palace was built on the site of Edo Castle, headquarters of the feudal government in the Tokugawa Era, in the 17th century. But the origin of Edo Castle is even older than the above. It was first built in 1457 by Dokan Ota. Today, a significant part of the Imperial Palace is open to the public. For example, the East Garden is one such area, where people can enjoy walking.

Look at the following picture. It is Bairin-zaka (Plum Grove Slope) in the East Garden. You can see beautifully blooming red and white plum trees there. Bairin-zaka is surrounded by the stone walls and moats of the castle and further surrounded by office towers in the business district. This area is an isolated spot, and creates a mysterious atmosphere. Indeed, it is a different world for time slipping back to the Samurai Era.

To get to this mysterious spot, Subway Toei (Tokyo Metropolitan Government) Mita Line is convenient. The Mita Line connects Meguro in the western part of the downtown and Nishi-Takashimadaira, a large apartment complex area in the northern suburb of Tokyo. There are 27 stations on the 26.4km route. A Blue and red striped train, EMU 6300 series, is operated frequently (see the top photo). The East Garden is very close if you get off at Otemachi Station.

Bairin-zaka near Otemachi Station on the Toei (Tokyo Metropolitan Government) Mita Line

Senbonzakura on the Odakyu-Enoshima Line

EMU Odakyu 8000+1000 series, Rapid Express train passes through Koza-Shibuya Station

With so many hanami (cherry blossom viewing) spots available, it's hard to select which one is the best. After wavering, I headed to the southwest over the last weekend, taking the Odakyu-Enoshima Line.

My destination was Senbonzakura in Yamato City, located in the central part of Kanagawa Prefecture. It is not an area for sightseeing and/or tourist attractions but it is a quiet hanami spot in a residential quarter.

Senbonzakura means "thousand cherry trees". As its name suggests, thousands of cherry trees are seen along Hikiji River, which flows through a residential area (see the following picture). Cherry trees have been planted by local people, who have given them enough care for a long time.

Today, Senbonzakura has become a famous hanami spot. Since it is located in a residential area, I saw many families who were enjoying hanami under the full blooming Sakura. They brought lunch boxes, BBQ sets, beer and sake (Japanese rice wine). I heard the chatter and singing of happy people.

To get to this beautiful spot, take the Odakyu-Enoshima Line and get off at Koza-Shibuya Station (see the top photo). The name Shibuya is the same as the busy downtown but this Shibuya is a quiet suburban area. It takes about one hour from Shinjuku terminal on the Odakyu Odawara Line. Since the direct operating trains from the Odawara to the Enoshima lines are not frequent, you might transfer from the Odawara to the Enoshima Line train at Sagami-Ohno, the interchange station.

Senbonzakura along Hikiji River near Koza-Shibuya Station on the Odakyu-Enoshima Line

Yozakura on the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line

Tokyo Metro 08001, top number car of the EMU 08 series, the Hanzomon Line

Sakura (cherry blossoms) season has come in Tokyo. We can see beautiful faint pink blossoms here and there. Tokyoites are feeling the herald of mid-spring now.

The way to enjoy Sakura differs from person to person. For example, having a hanami party (cherry blossom viewing party) under the full blooming Sakura is the most popular way. Needless to say, they enjoy not only looking at the Sakura, but also drinking beer or sake (Japanese rice wine), chatting, singing and dancing.

I like viewing Yozakura. Yozakura are cherry blossoms which are illuminated at night. In some famous Sakura spots, we can enjoy Yozakura viewing. Look at the following picture. It was beautifully illuminated Sakura in Chidorigafuchi Park near my office. It is beautiful and fantastic. For your information, all illuminations are supplied by solar photovoltaic power generators in consideration of the environment.

To visit Chidorigafuchi Park, it is convenient to get off at Hanzomon Station on the Subway Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line (see the top photo). The Hanzomon Line connects Shibuya, a large subcenter of downtown Tokyo and Oshiage, the nearest station to the Tokyo Sky Tree, the tallest broadcasting tower in the world. There are 14 stations on the 16.8 km route.

Trains on the Hanzomon Line directly operate into the Tokyu Line through Shibuya and the Tobu Line through Oshiage station. As a railfan, I like this route, because I can ride many kinds of trains that belong to Tokyo Metro, Tokyu and Tobu.
 

Moon and yozakura near Hanzomon Station on the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line 

Katakuri Village and Shonan Color Train

EMU JR East 115 series (Shonan color) runs near Iwafune Station on the Ryomo Line

Katakuri (Japanese Dogtooth Violet) is one of my favorite plants. It produces lovely pale purple blossoms in the forest in late March to early April. It heralds the arrival of spring.

Sano City, which is located 70km north of Tokyo, is famous for its beautiful natural masses of Katakuri. It was found in the early 1980s and has been carefully-protected and fostered by local people. Today, it is grown to the largest masses in the Tokyo metropolitan area, and the area is called Katakuri Village (see the bottom photo). Many holidaymakers visit there in the blooming season to celebrate the coming of spring.

I visited Katakuri Village last weekend. Taking the JR East Ryomo Line, which connects Oyama in Tochigi and Shin-Maebashi in Gunma prefectures, it took around two hours from downtown Tokyo. The nearest station is Iwafune.

You can see the "Shonan color" trains, EMU 115 series, on the Ryomo Line. The Shonan color train has a two-tone orange and green painted body. This coloring has its roots in the Shonan (the Tokaido Line) train from 1950. At its peak, thousands of EMUs were painted with the Shonan colors on the JNR (Japanese National Railways) lines. But, after the breakup and privatization of JNR, Shonan color trains have been decreasing. Currently, they are almost an "endangered species" throughout Japan.

Enjoying the lovely Katakuri blossoms and nostalgic Shonan color train, it was a beautiful spring weekend again.

Masses of Katakuri (Japanese dogtooth violet) near Iwafune Station, JR East Ryomo Line

Miracle Plum Tree and Urban Local Railway

EMU Tobu 8000 series leaves Kameido Station

Kameido is located in the eastern part of downtown Tokyo. Currently, this area is attracting a lot of attention along with the soon-to-be-opened Tokyo Sky Tree, a 634m high new landmark tower (see my blog on July 29th, 2011).

But that's not all in Kameido. It is a historical and traditional area as well. One of the famous spots in this area is Kameido Tenjin, which is a shrine opened in 1661 to express a belief in god of academic achievements. In the grounds of the shrine is a beautifully arranged garden and alters.

In early spring, if you stand on the bridge in front of the main alter, you will find a beautifully blooming plum tree right in front. It is a very famous miracle tree, because both red and white flowers bloom on the same tree (see the bottom photo).

One way to get to this traditional and contemporary area, is by taking the Tobu Kameido Line and getting off at the Kameido Terminal. This route is a branch line of the Tobu Isesaki Line, and looks a local line in the urban area.

A 2-car train of the EMU 8000 series travels slowly, threading its way through a shopping arcade and small factories (see the top photo). There are five stations on the 3.4km route. The train is operated every 7 to 8 minutes during rush hour and every 10 minutes during the daytime.

Kameido, it is a miracle plum tree and an urban local railway town for me.
 

Miracle red and white plum tree in Kameido Tenjin Shrine near Kameido Station

Gorgeous Valley and Trans-peninsula Railway

DMU Kominato Type 200 arrives at Yoro Keikoku (Yoro Valley) Station

Following my visit to Ezuki Narcissus Road in January (see my blog on January 18th), I visited Boso Peninsula again last weekend. My destination was Yoro Valley, which is located in the heart of the peninsula.

Yoro is a gorgeous valley, where tourists can enjoy walking along the fresh stream and in the open air in the forest, and bathing in the hot springs. My favorite landscape is the beautifully dipping geological layers along the Yoro River. We can see alternating sandstone and shale layers at the riverside (see the bottom photo). These layers are estimated to have been deposited around 3 million years ago in the sea, and uplifted later with the formation of folds.

To get to Yoro Valley, I took a local train of Kominato Railway. This railway is a part of the trans-peninsula railway, which connects Goi on the west coast and Ohara on the east coast of the peninsula. Kominato forms the western part of the trans-peninsula railway. The total operating length is 39.1km.

I got on the classic DMU, type 200 from Goi Station. The type 200 was manufactured from 1961 to 1977 at Nihon Sharyo. They are a bit old, but still maintained in good condition (see the top photo). Although, there are no large boxes on the roof, all of the DMUs are equipped with air conditioners.

It was crowded with tourists because it was the weekend. All of the passengers looked very happy in expectation of the pleasant holiday. I also fully enjoyed a beautiful Sunday, riding a classic train and walking along the stream.
 

Beautifully dipping geological layers along Yoro River near Yoro Keikoku (Yoro Valley) Station

More information about Kominato Railway (in Japanese): http://www.kominato.co.jp/

L-train on the Seibu Line

EMU Seibu 3000 series, L-train leaves Shiinamachi Station on the Ikebukuro Line

One of the features of private railway companies in Tokyo is their diversification of business. For example, almost all companies have their own department stores on their lines. Of course the residents are expected to take the railways to go shopping. Another example is the real estate business. Railway companies own land and develop housing and condominiums to rent or sell on their lines. Of course the new residents are expected to take the railways to commute or to go to school.

Among the many private railway companies, Seibu is especially well known for their aggressive diversified business. The most famous of these is the sponsoring of the professional baseball team, namely the Saitama Seibu Lions. This team is based at the Seibu Baseball Field in Tokorozawa City, Saitama Prefecture, on the Seibu Line.

To support and promote the Lions, Seibu operates the L-train, which is an EMU 3000 series-based (see the top photo). The body is wrapped in "legend blue" which is the Lions' team color, and it is decorated with team logos and characters. The L-train holds a special place in a total of 9 sets of the 3000 series.

For your information, the original color of the EMU 3000 series is "Seibu yellow", which is similar to that of a railway crossing sign (see the bottom photo). These EMUs were manufactured from 1983 to 1987 at Tokyu Sharyo and Seibu Tokorozawa Works. A total of 72 units have been launched, and 70 units are still being operated.

EMU Seibu 3000 series (origibal colour) arrives at Shiinamachi Station on the Ikebukuro Line

Nostalgic Trams in the Historical Harbor City

Electric car, Nagasaki Electric Tramway Type 200 runs on the Route Number 5

Nagasaki is famous as a historical harbor city in Kyushu Island. It is located 900km west of Tokyo, and is the main city of Nagasaki Prefecture.

The history of Nagasaki has been strongly related with foreign countries. For example, in the 16th Century, Luis de Almeida, a Portuguese man, visited there as a missionary of propagandizing the Christian religion. Then, from the 17th to the 19th Century, when Japan had closed its doors to the outside world, only Nagasaki City played the role of a gateway to Japan. Foreign cultures were transmitted to Japan through the island of Dejima, in this City. In the 20th Century, Nagasaki was destroyed by the dropping of an atomic bomb at the end of World War II. After the war, Nagasaki was reconstructed as a harbor city, and many foreign sightseers visit there.

Because of its history, Nagasaki has an exotic atmosphere. Nostalgic trams make the city more attractive. This tramway was opened in 1915, and is operated by Nagasaki Electric Tramway Company. The line length is only 11.5km, but four routes operate in the urban area.

Type 200 is one of the representatives electric cars (see the photos). A total of ten cars were manufactured by Hitachi and Nihon Sharyo in 1950. They are already 62 years old, but still active. Although they have often been improved with installments of air-conditioners and exchange of pantographs, the nostalgic appearance has been strictly adhered to.

The tramway in Nagasaki, it is something the city cannot do without.

Electric car, Nagasaki Electric Tramway Type 200 runs backed by a suburban hill

More information about Nagasaki Electric Tramway (in Japanese): http://www.naga-den.com/

The Track the Railway Signals Disappeared

EMU Keio 8000 series runs on the signal-free track near Shimo-Takaido Station

March 20th was Vernal Equinox Day, a national holiday in Japan. That is a day for praising nature and showing love for all living things. It is originally from Buddhism. Many people visit their family graves, and pray for the peaceful repose of their ancestors by offering flowers and incense.

I also visited my family grave, taking the Keio Line. Keio is one of the major private railway companies in the western part of Tokyo and Kanagawa Prefecture (see my blog on April 8th, 2011). For the first time in a long while, I got on a train on the Keio Line.

Standing behind the cabin in the first car, I enjoyed the front view of the train. Then, I found that all railway signals had been removed from the track (see the top photo). It is because an ATC (Automatic Train Control) system has been introduced to the line. Last October, this company completed the exchange of their signal system on the Keio Line. As a result, all signals have been moved from the railway track to the cabin in the trains.

So, the driver should frequently check the speedometer and the cab signal, which show the present speed and speed limit. Once the cab signal changes with a chime, he (or she) has to follow it. If he (or she) is ignorant of the speed limit change, in other words, if the actual train speed continues to be greater than the limit, the brakes are applied automatically.

I hope that the ATC provides increased safety on the line.

EMU Keio 8000 series leaves Bubaigawara Station on the Keio Line

Smile Train on the Seibu Line

EMU Seibu 30000 series, Smile Train arrives at Shiinamachi Staton on the Ikebukuro Line

Seibu is one of the major private railway companies in the Tokyo metropolitan area. It has two terminals, namely Ikebukuro and Shinjuku in the downtown Tokyo area, and its labyrinthine railway network extends to the north-western part of Tokyo and Saitama Prefecture.

This company had been known for being managed by members of a single family. But, after a scandal involving them breaking a Security and Exchange Law in the early 2000s, the company has been trying to dedicate themselves to modernization of the management style.

One of the newly-emerged Seibu trains is in the top photo. It is the EMU 30000 series, called Smile Train. It was launched in 2008, as Seibu's new symbolic train. Needless to say, its front view looks a smiling face. Until then, the train of the Seibu Line only placed importance on their operating functions, but, the engineering concept of this new train is that "trains bring smiles to the people". It is totally different from their previous ones. Not only its frontal design, but the 30000 series also has various functions for passengers, such as antibacterial handrails, egg-shaped straps and anti-crime glass gangway doors.

Honestly speaking, the 30000 series is not my cup of tea as a rail-fan, because the design of this train is eccentric. But it is good thing that there is a wide variety of trains in Tokyo which provide passengers with a good service. I welcome this kind of passenger service competition as a customer.
 

Side View of the Smile Train, EMU Seibu 30000 series at Shiinamachi Station on the Ikebukuro Line

My Old Memory on the Tokyo Keibajo Line

Electric car JNR Number KuMoHa 40074 of Type 40 is preserved in the Railway Museum

Following my blog on January 24th, I would like to introduce another exhibit in the Railway Museum. That is JNR electric car KuMoHa 40074 of Type 40 (see the top photo). This classic electric car was manufactured in 1936 at Kawasaki Sharyo Ltd. (present Kawasaki Heavy Industries Rolling Stock Company). After being used as a commuter train in the Tokyo metropolitan area, it was retired in 1987. Eventually, it was exhibited in the Railway Museum in 2007 as a preserved car.

The body is riveted, heavily steeled, but gracefully rounded. A single circled headlight is also attached. The beautifully curved single roof at the top of the body is still modern, and the black staunch bogies look robust.

I have a precious experience of riding this classic train, when I was a boy. It was early spring, at this time in 1973. I went to Kokubunji on the Chuo Line to take the Tokyo Keibajo (Racecourse) Line, which would be abolished soon. When I arrived at the platform, I found a lovely classic electric car with a sure presence. That was my first meeting with KuMoHa 40074. The bottom is a picture of that time. I became fascinated by this classic car.

Since then, I have been meeting up with this classic car sporadically, such as at events of JR East. Whenever I see it, I enjoy its youthful figure.

Electric car KuMoHa 40074, it is even now an evergreen train.

Electric car JNR KuMoHa 40074, Type 40 at Kokubunji Station on the Tokyo Keibajo Line in 1973

Antiquarian Bookstore Quarter on the Toei-Shinjuku Line

EMU Toei (Tokyo Metropolitan Government) 10-000 series at Sasazuka Station on the Keio Line

I was born in Tokyo and brought up there. When I was a kid, my most favorite place was the Transportation Museum, which was located in Kanda area, downtown Tokyo. But after growing up, I have another favorite spot in this area. That is an antiquarian bookstore quarter near Jimbocho Station (see the bottom photo).

Taking a look at the history of the antiquarian bookstore quarter, we find that it started in the 1880s, when four universities, namely Chuo, Meiji, Nihon and Senshu, were opened in this area. Demand from these university students was expected. Since then, the quarter has developed in a smooth progress. It escaped from destruction in the air raids during World War II. Nowadays, there are more than 200 bookstores including 110 antiquarian ones. Jimbocho is said to be the world's largest antiquarian bookstore quarter.

To get to this fascinating quarter, Subway Toei (Tokyo Metropolitan Government) Shinjuku Line is convenient. This subway line connects Shinjuku, the largest subcenter of Tokyo and Motoyawata on the JR East Sobu Line by way of Jinbocho. Since express trains are operated even in the underground section, it takes only 7 minutes from Shinjuku to Jimbocho. Light green striped EMU 10-000 (see the top photo) or 10-300 series will take you speedily. Moreover, you can make an easy access from the western suburb of Tokyo, as all trains are directly operated into the Keio Line through Shinjuku Station.

 

A typical antiquarian bookstore near Jimbocho Station on the Subway Toei Shinjuku Line 

Year from Then in Tohoku

EMU JR East E721 series (a local train bound for Watari on the Joban Line) arrives at Nagamachi

One year has passed since the 3.11 giant earthquake hit the Tohoku District of Japan. Nearly 20,000 people were killed mainly by a giant tsunami, which followed the powerful quake. To make matters worse, the nuclear power plant disaster, which was caused by the tsunami, is still forcing 10,000 people from their hometowns in Fukushima Prefecture.

Fortunately, there were no victims of train passengers because of the quake. The railways were saved by earthquake resistant constructions and the advanced earthquake warning system (see my blog on July 7th, 2011). But, some routes are still fully suspended due to the damage caused by the tsunami and the nuclear power plant.

Look at the top and the bottom photos. It is a JR East train on the Joban Line. Even if you take this train from Sendai City, you can only reach Watari Town in Miyagi Prefecture. In other words, you cannot go to Fukushima Prefecture on the Joban Line at the moment.

There are many other suspended routes other than the Joban Line in the Tohoku District. A total of seven routes are closed in JR East and two routes in private railways. It is causing severe damage to the local industries as well.

But, as the saying goes, "out of disaster springs fortune." I believe that people in Tohoku District will recover from the devastating casualties soon, because they have good patience and a strong social bond.

Pray for Tohoku.

A local train (bound for Watari on the Joban Line) leaves Nagamachi Station,Sendai urban area

Plum Blossoms on the Gotemba Line

EMU JR Central 313-3000 series leaves Shimo-Soga Station on the Gotemba Line

We had a very cold winter this year. Spring blossoms are late in blooming in Japan. As temperatures have been comparatively low this year, the plum trees began blooming one month later than usual. Blooms in Soga Plum Field are no exception. Usually, the plums in this field are in full bloom in mid-February; however, they blossomed as late as last week this year (see the bottom photo).

Soga Plum Field is located 70km southwest of Tokyo, in the western part of Kanagawa Prefecture. The plums are grown here for fruit cultivation. Before bearing a lot of fruit, the trees produce beautiful flowers. They are mainly white, some pink and red, and also very fragrant. I visited there last weekend and enjoyed the advent of spring.

To get to Soga Plum Field, it is convenient to get off at Shimo-Soga Station on the JR Central Gotemba Line. The Gotemba Line connects Kozu on the JR East, Matsuda on the Odakyu and Numazu on the JR Central Tokaido lines. I took the Odakyu Line from my nearest station in Tokyo and transferred to the lovely 2 car train on the Gotemba Line at Matsuda Station.

The carriages are EMU JR Central 313 series, standard DC suburban trains, which have been manufactured since 1999. The white front face with an orange stripe was set off against the spring sky (see the top photo).

Trains are part of the scenery in Japan.

Plum field near Shimo-Soga Station on the JR Central Gotemba Line

Revisit to Railway Heritage Park and Wintersweet Village

Electric locomotive EF3020, Type EF30 at Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park

It is mid-March already. Time really flies. But, before introducing the topics of this month, I would like to keep on the subject of February a bit more.

After visiting a heritage railway bridge, Megane-bashi in Gunma Prefecture (see my blog on February 10th), I headed again for Wintersweet Village, where I went at the end of last year.

Last December, it had just come into bloom (see my blog on December 31st, 2011). But last month, it was the best time to view the blossom (see the bottom photo). I enjoyed 12,000 wintersweet trees with lovely yellow flowers and a sweet perfume. I was delighted to see the sign of spring.

Then, I visited Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park again. This time, my purpose was to see and take a picture of an electric locomotive, number JNR EF3020 of Type EF30 (see the top photo).

EF30 electric locomotives were manufactured from 1960 to 1968 at Hitachi, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Toshiba Corporation. A total of eight units were launched; but all of them have already been retired. They were specifically used for transportation through the Kanmon Undersea Tunnel, which is located between Honshu and Kyushu islands.

For that special purpose, the body is made of stainless steel to prevent brine damage by sea water. DC and AC electric systems were both applied, because electric systems in Honshu and Kyushu were different.

I like this stainless steel body very much. It was glinting in the rays of the early spring sunlight.

Full-blown wintersweet near Nishi-Matsuida Station on the JR East Shinetsu Line

Rival Railway Story, JR East vs. Keisei

EMU JR East E231-900 series arrives at Makuhari-Hongo Station, Sobu Local Line

As I introduced in my blogs on April 15th and September 13th, 2011, JR East and Keisei are in fierce competition in terms of passenger acquisition between downtown Tokyo and Narita Airport.

But, there are other competitions. One of them is Tokyo - Chiba section. Chiba is located 40km east of Tokyo and is a main city of Chiba Prefecture. Many commuters, who live in Chiba urban area, commute to their offices in Tokyo. At the moment, JR East has the advantage over Keisei because of the travel time between the two cities. Configuration of the railway track is mostly straight on the JR Line; meanwhile there are many tight curves on the Keisei Line which means that trains on the Keisei Line cannot gather speed. That's why many passengers take the JR East line on this section. It takes about 40 minutes on the JR East trains, whilst nearly one hour from Chiba to Nippori (in downtown Tokyo) on the Keisei line.

On the other hand, Keisei has the upper hand on the section between the western part of Chiba Prefecture and Narita Airport. This is because the configuration of the Keisei line is straighter than that of JR east. Consequently, it takes less than 50 minutes from Funabashi (a major city in the western part of Chiba Prefecture) to Narita Airport on the Keisei line, as opposed to nearly one hour on the JR East line.

As seen from the above, railway companies in the Tokyo metropolitan area are facing mega-competitions here and there.

EMU Keisei 3000 series arrives at Makuhari-Hongo Station, Chiba Line