Hubbry Logo
285 series285 seriesMain
Open search
285 series
Community hub
285 series
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
285 series
285 series
285 series
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

285 series
285 series on a Sunrise Izumo service, October 2022
ManufacturerKawasaki Heavy Industries, Nippon Sharyo, Kinki Sharyo
Family nameSunrise Express
Constructed1998
Entered service10 July 1998
Number built35 vehicles (5 sets)
Number in service35 vehicles (5 sets)
Formation7 cars per trainset
Fleet numbersI1-I5
OperatorsJR Central, JR-West
DepotsŌgaki, Gotō
Lines servedTokaido Main Line, San'yō Main Line, Seto-Ōhashi Line, Hakubi Line, Sanin Main Line
Specifications
Car body constructionSteel
Car length21,670 mm (71 ft 1 in)
Width2,945 mm (9 ft 7.9 in)
Height4,090 mm (13 ft 5 in)
Maximum speed130 km/h (80 mph)
Traction systemVariable frequency (3-level IGBT)
Power output1,760 kW
Power supply1,500 V DC
BogiesWDT58, WTR242
Braking system(s)Dynamic brake, regenerative brake, electronically controlled pneumatic brakes
Safety system(s)ATS-P, ATS-SW
Track gauge1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in)
Notes/references
This train won the 42nd Blue Ribbon Award in 1999.

The 285 series (285系, 285-kei) is a sleeper electric multiple unit (EMU) train type operated jointly by Central Japan Railway Company (JR Central) and West Japan Railway Company (JR-West) on the overnight Sunrise Izumo and Sunrise Seto limited express services in Japan. These EMUs were introduced from 10 July 1998 to replace ageing locomotive-hauled "Blue Train" coaches which once operated on separate Seto and Izumo services between Tokyo, Shikoku and the Sanin region.[1]

Livery

[edit]

The trains are finished in a livery of "Morning Glow" red and "Morning Mist" beige with "Sun Rise" gold lining. [2]

Formations

[edit]

As of 1 April 2015, the fleet consists of five sets, numbered I1 to I5.[3] I1 to I3 are owned by JR-West, and are classified 285-0 series. Sets I4 and I5 are owned by JR Central, and are classified 285-3000 series (the individual cars are numbered in the 3000 range). All sets, I1 to I5, are composed as follows, with two motored ("M") cars and five non-powered trailer ("T") cars.[3] Car 7 and 14 is at the Tokyo (eastern) end.[3]

Car No. 1/8 2/9 3/10 4/11 5/12 6/13 7/14
Designation TNWC' TNW2 MN TNWS MN2 TNW TNWC
Numbering KuHaNe 285 SaHaNe 285-200 MoHaNe 285 SaRoHaNe 285 MoHaNe 285-200 SaHaNe 285 KuHaNe 285

The cars of JR Central sets I4 and I5 are numbered in the -3000 series.[3] The motor cars are each fitted with one WPS28A single-arm pantograph. The motor cars in sets I1 and I3 each have two.[3]

Interior

[edit]

Each car includes toilet facilities.[3]

  • B single-twin berths
    B single-twin berths
  • B single berths
    B single berths
  • Nobinobi floor space (Upper)
    Nobinobi floor space (Upper)
  • Nobinobi floor space (Lower)
    Nobinobi floor space (Lower)
  • Mini saloon area
    Mini saloon area

Fleet details

[edit]

The individual build details of the fleet are as shown below.[3]

Set No. Manufacturer Date delivered
I1 Kinki Sharyo 19 March 1998
I2 15 April 1998
I3 Kawasaki Heavy Industries 1 May 1998
I4 Kinki Sharyo 8 April 1998
I5 Nippon Sharyo 24 April 1998

History

[edit]

The trains entered service on 10 July 1998, with set I4 forming the down Sunrise Izumo, set I5 forming the down Sunrise Seto, set I3 forming the up Sunrise Izumo, and set I2 forming the up Sunrise Seto.[3]

See also

[edit]
  • 583 series, the first Japanese sleeping-car EMU type

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

285 series

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The 285 series (285系, 285-kei) is a limited express sleeper electric multiple unit (EMU) train type introduced by the West Japan Railway Company (JR West) in 1998 for overnight passenger services on conventional lines. It serves as the dedicated rolling stock for the Sunrise Izumo and Sunrise Seto trains, operated jointly by JR Central and JR West with the Tokyo portion handled by JR East, which operate daily between Tokyo and western Japan, coupling together from Tokyo to Okayama before splitting for their respective destinations of Izumo-shi and Takamatsu. Developed to modernize Japan's declining sleeper train network amid economic challenges in the late , the 285 series replaced older locomotive-hauled formations and emphasized comfort with features like private compartments, shared berths, and seating options in a compact 7-car configuration. Each set has a total weight of 305 tons, a capacity of 150, and a maximum operating speed of 130 km/h, making it suitable for mixed urban and rural routes along the Tōkaidō, Sanyō, and Seto-Ōhashi lines. The design, noted for its aerodynamic profile and interior innovations, received the Encouragement Prize in the at the 8th Brunel Awards in , recognizing its contributions to aesthetics and functionality. As of November 2025, the 285 series remains in active service as one of Japan's last regular sleeper trains, with JR West maintaining 21 units across its fleet for continued operation of these iconic overnight routes. Despite advancements in , it continues to attract tourists and business travelers seeking scenic, restful journeys through regions like the San'in and areas, underscoring JR West's commitment to preserving heritage services alongside modern infrastructure.

Overview

Description

The 285 series is a seven-car sleeper electric multiple unit (EMU) train branded as the Sunrise Express, designed for overnight travel in Japan. It operates jointly by Central Japan Railway Company (JR Central) and West Japan Railway Company (JR West), with JR West handling the -0 sub-series and JR Central the -3000 sub-series. Introduced in 1998, the train represents a modern approach to long-distance sleeper services on Japan's conventional rail network. The primary role of the 285 series is to provide overnight services, coupling two seven-car sets to form a 14-car from to before splitting for final destinations. The portion connects to in , while the Sunrise Izumo serves the San'in region to Izumo-shi. These services replaced aging locomotive-hauled "Blue Train" coaches previously used on the separate Seto and Izumo routes, offering improved comfort and efficiency. Built in 1998 by , , and , the 285 series features a maximum operating speed of 130 km/h on 1,500 V DC electrified lines with a 1,067 mm gauge. Its livery incorporates "Morning Glow" red, "Morning Mist" beige, and "Sun Rise" gold accents to evoke the Sunrise branding. The design earned the 42nd Blue Ribbon Award in 1999 for outstanding railway vehicle innovation.

Technical specifications

The 285 series trains feature standardized body dimensions designed for compatibility with Japan's conventional rail infrastructure, measuring 21,670 mm in length per end car, 2,945 mm in width, and 4,090 mm in height. These proportions accommodate the bilevel configuration in five trailer cars while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency for overnight services. Variations in length occur for intermediate cars, typically around 21,000 mm, but the overall set adheres to these parameters for seamless integration on 1,067 mm gauge tracks. The approximate weight per car ranges from 40 to 45 tons, with motored cars (such as MoHaNe 285) on the heavier end due to equipment, and trailer cars lighter to optimize load distribution across the seven-car formation. This results in a total formation weight of roughly 305 tonnes, balancing stability and energy efficiency during long-distance operations. Power is supplied via 1,500 V DC overhead lines, with a total output of 1,760 kW delivered by two motored cars equipped with four 220 kW asynchronous AC traction motors each. Propulsion employs (VVVF) inverters using IGBT elements for precise control, enabling smooth acceleration up to 130 km/h while minimizing noise and vibration suitable for sleeper services. The braking system combines regenerative braking for energy recovery with electric command pneumatic braking, supplemented by rheostatic and disc/tread mechanisms for reliable stopping in varied conditions. Safety systems include ATS-P for pattern-based speed supervision and ATS-SW for automatic train stop functions, ensuring compliance with signaling on the Tokaido and Sanyo main lines. In sleeper configuration, each seven-car set accommodates around 158 passengers in private berths across deluxe singles, twins, and solo rooms, prioritizing comfort for overnight travel.
SpecificationDetails
Body Length (end car)21,670 mm
Body Width2,945 mm
Body Height4,090 mm
Weight per Car40-45 tonnes
Power Supply
Total Power Output1,760 kW (two motored cars)
Propulsion
BrakingRegenerative + electric command pneumatic
Safety SystemsATS-P, ATS-SW
Passenger Capacity (sleeper)~158 per set

Design features

Exterior design

The 285 series trains are characterized by a distinctive featuring "Morning Glow" red on the main body, complemented by "Morning Mist" on the roof and lower side panels, and accented by a "Sun Rise" gold stripe running along the window line. This color scheme evokes the theme of a sunrise, aligning with the train's branding for services. In terms of structural configuration, the seven-car sets consist of five bilevel (double-decker) trailer cars providing upper and lower decks for passenger accommodation, while the two motor cars remain single-level to house propulsion equipment. The end cars, including the unpowered KuHaNe 285 and powered MoHaNe 285, incorporate gangwayed cab ends to facilitate coupling of sets, with a somewhat streamlined profile aiding operational efficiency. Door arrangements are limited to single on each side of the end cars, with no intermediate doors on the bilevel cars to prioritize secure travel. are mounted on the roofs of the MoHaNe 285 motor cars, utilizing single-arm WPS28A current collectors, with an additional collector added on some units for improved reliability during service. The exterior design, introduced in , has remained largely unchanged since its debut, reflecting the train's specialized role in long-distance sleeper operations, though minor modifications such as enhanced setups were implemented in later years to support ongoing maintenance.

Interior layout

The 285 series trains feature a variety of sleeper accommodations designed for overnight travel, including private cabins and s across their double-deck cars. The Nobinobi seating area, located in the MoHaNe 285-200 cars (typically car 5 in each 7-car set), provides a carpeted with 28 flexible seats that can be converted into a communal sleeping area, allowing passengers to recline or spread out without a berth charge. Private single cabins are available in multiple car types, such as the SaHaNe 285 and MoHaNe 285-0/-3000 cars (cars 2, 3, and 6), offering compact solo berths with upper and lower options in some configurations for enhanced privacy and comfort. Deluxe singles in the SaRoHaNe 285 cars (car 4) include spacious upper/lower berths equipped with personal amenities, while twin cabins in SaHaNe 285-1 (car 1) accommodate two passengers with shared upper and lower berths. Each 7-car set is configured for operational flexibility, with cars 1 and 2 dedicated to the Izumo or Seto branch split at , featuring a mix of single and twin berths, while cars 3 through 7 are shared across both services and include the Nobinobi space, solo singles, and deluxe options. Access between the upper and lower decks is provided via internal stairs in the double-deck cars, facilitating movement within the . Amenities are integrated throughout, with toilets and washbasins available in every car, including multi-purpose facilities for convenience; a dedicated shared shower room is located in cars 3 (SaHaNe 285) and 4 (SaRoHaNe 285) of each set, and vending machines are positioned for passenger use. For accessibility, car 3 includes designated spaces alongside standard berths, and priority seating areas are provided in shared configurations to accommodate passengers with disabilities or . These features contribute to the overall service comfort on long-distance routes.

Operations

Passenger services

The 285 series operates Japan's primary overnight sleeper services, and Sunrise Izumo, connecting with destinations in western . provides daily service from to via the Seto Ohashi Bridge, covering approximately 800 kilometers, while Sunrise Izumo serves to Izumoshi, extending to the San'in region. These trains run daily, departing at 21:50 and arriving at at 07:27 and Izumoshi at 9:58 the following morning. Return journeys depart at 21:26 and Izumoshi at 18:57, reaching at 07:08 the next day. The schedule allows passengers to travel overnight, maximizing daytime activities at both ends. For efficiency, two 285 series sets (typically I1-I3 for Izumo and I4-I5 for Seto) couple at to form a single 14-car train between and Okayama, then uncouple to proceed to their separate destinations. This operation occurs seamlessly during stops, with passengers unaffected except for brief announcements. Ticketing for these services is integrated with the , which covers the base fare; however, reservations are mandatory for all sleeper berths and compartments, available up to a month in advance via JR ticket offices or online platforms like e5489. Nobinobi seats offer a budget option fully covered by the pass, while private rooms incur an additional surcharge. As of November 2025, the and Izumo remain Japan's sole regular sleeper train services, operating without announced plans for retirement. The services maintain high reliability with consistent daily operations.

Performance and operations

The 285 series trains operate at a maximum speed of 130 km/h, suitable for their role on conventional railway lines including sections of the Tokaido Main Line where speeds may be restricted to 110 km/h due to track conditions and signaling limits. Energy efficiency is supported by systems that recover during deceleration and descents, supplemented by roof-mounted resistors for rheostatic braking when necessary, and variable voltage variable frequency (VVVF) control driving the 220 kW AC induction motors. Routine maintenance and inspections are conducted at dedicated facilities operated by JR Central and JR West, with major overhauls scheduled periodically to maintain performance standards. The series maintains high reliability, bolstered by integrated train protection and warning systems that minimize disruptions. As of 2025, no immediate replacement plans have been announced for the 27-year-old fleet amid ongoing evaluations of its aging .

Fleet

Formations

The 285 series operates in fixed 7-car formations, each comprising two single-level motored cars and five bilevel trailer cars, enabling efficient sleeper services on overnight routes. The motored cars, designated MoHaNe 285, are positioned intermediately within the consist to provide , while the trailer cars handle accommodations across upper and lower decks. This configuration totals 2M5T (two motored, five trailers) per set, with all cars measuring 21.67 meters in length and constructed from steel for durability. A typical formation, oriented from the Tokyo end, includes KuHaNe 285 cab control trailers at both ends for leading and trailing operations, SaHaNe 285 intermediate bilevel trailers for general berths, MoHaNe 285 powered cars equipped with IGBT-VVVF inverters and single-arm pantographs, and a central SaRoHaNe 285 bilevel trailer featuring deluxe singles, twin berths, and a lounge area. One SaHaNe 285 car is fitted with "nobi nobi" flexible seating on its lower deck for shared accommodations, while the remaining SaHaNe and KuHaNe cars primarily offer single-berth rooms on both levels. The MoHaNe 285 cars include solo cabins, a mini saloon, and shower facilities, supporting the train's luxury sleeper profile.
Car Position (Tokyo End)Car TypeRole
1KuHaNe 285Cab control trailer; single/double berths
2SaHaNe 285 (-200 variant in some sets)Bilevel trailer; nobi nobi seating (lower deck), singles (upper)
3MoHaNe 285Motored car; solo cabins, mini saloon, shower
4SaRoHaNe 285Bilevel trailer; deluxe singles, twins, lounge
5MoHaNe 285 (-200/-3200 variant in some sets)Motored car; solo cabins, mini saloon, shower
6SaHaNe 285Bilevel trailer; single berths
7KuHaNe 285Cab control trailer; single/double berths
The five active sets—I1 through I3 owned by JR West (classified as the 285-0 subseries) and I4 through I5 owned by JR Central (285-3000 subseries)—follow this standard layout with minor variations in car numbering and to accommodate regional power systems and practices. For instance, sets I1, I3, and I5 feature additional pantographs on the MoHaNe cars for enhanced current collection on specific routes. Specific examples include set I1 (KuHaNe 285-1 + SaHaNe 285-1 + MoHaNe 285-201 + SaRoHaNe 285-1 + MoHaNe 285-1 + SaHaNe 285-201 + KuHaNe 285-2) and set I4 (similar structure with 3000-series numbering like KuHaNe 285-3001). These formations are designed for coupling, with gangway connections at the KuHaNe ends allowing two 7-car sets to form a 14-car train for the Sunrise Izumo and services between and ; end-on views show aligned couplers and yellow-painted steps for safety, while side profiles highlight the bilevel trailers' stepped silhouette contrasting the single-level motored cars.

Fleet details

The 285 series fleet consists of five seven-car sets, designated I1 through I5, totaling 35 cars built in for use in the Sunrise Express sleeping car services. These sets were constructed to support joint operations between JR West and JR Central, with no additional cars produced since initial delivery. Ownership is divided between the two operators, with sets I1 to I3 (21 cars) owned by JR West and sets I4 to I5 (14 cars) owned by JR Central. Manufacturing was distributed among three Japanese companies: built sets I1, I2, and I4; built set I3; built set I5. Deliveries occurred progressively throughout early , starting with set I1 on 19 March, followed by I4 on 8 April, I2 on 15 April, I5 on 24 April, and I3 on 1 May. As of November 2025, the entire fleet of 35 cars remains in active service with no withdrawals recorded, continuing to operate on the Sunrise Izumo and routes. In August 2024, set I5 was involved in a collision with a maintenance train at Gotō Depot but was repaired and returned to service. When not in , the sets are stored at Gotō Comprehensive Vehicle Center () for JR West units, with JR Central units primarily at Ōgaki Depot but managed at Gotō. The fleet has undergone targeted modifications over the years to enhance reliability and efficiency. Between 2012 and 2015, all sets received LED conversions for their headlights to improve visibility and reduce maintenance.

History

Development

The 285 series (EMU) was developed jointly by (JR West) and (JR Central) between 1996 and 1998, with JR West taking the lead role, to modernize overnight sleeper services and address the challenges posed by declining ridership on traditional locomotive-hauled Blue Trains. The project aimed to replace aging 24 Series sleeping cars on the Seto and Izumo routes with a more efficient EMU design capable of higher speeds and better passenger comfort. Key design goals focused on space efficiency through a double-decker configuration for the five intermediate sleeper cars, which maximized capacity for private rooms while ensuring a quiet, vibration-minimized ride suitable for sleeping; the train was engineered for compatibility with standard infrastructure, including a maximum speed of 130 km/h. Unlike conventional locomotive-hauled trains, the EMU format was selected to enable smoother acceleration, reduced maintenance costs, and faster overall journey times, with the objective of departing Tokyo later than the last airplane flight while arriving at destinations before the first morning flight. The interior design emphasized passenger well-being with wood-grained finishes and private accommodations, including Nobinobi seating areas for flexible use, earning the vehicle the 1998 Good Design Award. Innovations such as IGBT-based VVVF inverters provided smoother power delivery and , contributing to operational efficiency and cost savings compared to locomotive-hauled equivalents.

Introduction and service

The 285 series entered service on 10 July 1998 as the dedicated for the Sunrise Izumo and trains, replacing the ageing -hauled 24/25 series Blue Train sleepers that previously operated on these routes. The five-set fleet was fully deployed by August 1998, enabling the daily paired operation of the Sunrise services from to , where the trains divide for their respective destinations of Izumoshi and . This marked a significant upgrade in comfort and efficiency for long-distance overnight travel, with each 7-car set accommodating 158 passengers in various berth configurations. In 1999, the series received the 42nd Blue Ribbon Award from the Japan Railfan Club for its innovative design and excellence. Throughout the , the 285 series underwent minor timetable adjustments to align with broader network optimizations, maintaining its core role on the Sunrise routes. The trains survived the impacts of the with limited disruptions, unlike several other sleeper services that faced suspension or withdrawal in the aftermath. The 285 series continued operations amid the 2020 disruptions, operating with reduced passenger loads to comply with health protocols. As of 2025, travel demand has strongly rebounded, with high booking demand and tickets often selling out quickly.

References

  1. https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ir/library/flash-report/pdf/fr199905.pdf
  2. https://www.westjr.co.jp/press/article/items/250925_00_press_Burunel.pdf
  3. https://www.westjr.co.jp/company/info/issue/data/pdf/data2020_15.pdf
  4. https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/procurement/procurement_plan/pdf/list_rolling_stock.pdf
  5. https://www.westjr.co.jp/company/info/issue/data/pdf/data2025_15.pdf
  6. https://jrrollingstock.travel.coocan.jp/intercity/285~en.html
  7. https://locomotive.fandom.com/wiki/285_series
  8. https://gigazine.net/gsc_news/en/20090513_sunrize_seto/
  9. https://www.railwaygazette.com/news/sunrise-express/30084.article
  10. https://bateman.monologue.jp/en/articles/JR/jrw285.html
  11. https://www.jr-odekake.net/train/sunriseseto_izumo/
  12. https://tourist-train.info/special/sunrise/
  13. https://en.namu.wiki/w/%25EC%2584%25A0%25EB%259D%25BC%25EC%259D%25B4%25EC%25A6%2588%2520%25EC%259D%25B4%25EC%25A6%2588%25EB%25AA%25A8%25C2%25B7%25EC%2584%25B8%25ED%2586%25A0
  14. https://tsubakit.com/2025/03/22/sunrise-timetable-202503/
  15. https://www.insidekyoto.com/jr-sunrise-seto-and-sunrise-izumi-sleeper-trains-guide-and-map
  16. https://www.jrailpass.com/blog/night-trains-sunrise-express
  17. https://help.japan-experience.com/hc/en-gb/articles/15959849829906-Sunrise-Seto-Izumo-overnight-train
  18. https://www.sunriseexpresstickets.com/post/top-5-overnight-sleeper-trains-in-japan-historical-and-present-and-how-to-book-them
  19. https://www.newhallstation.com/estore/product_info.php?products_id=102
  20. https://www.plazajapan.com/4949727675497/
  21. https://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10585938
  22. https://raillab.jp/news/article/25146
  23. https://jrrollingstock.travel.coocan.jp/intercity/285~jp.html
  24. http://iamreck.g2.xrea.com/ec285/shogen.html
  25. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OxEeApR4hNg
  26. https://4gousya.net/jr_w/6504.php?f=I1
  27. http://iamreck.g2.xrea.com/ec285/i3renewal.html
  28. https://railway.jr-central.co.jp/train/express/detail_02_05/
  29. https://www.n-sharyo.co.jp/business/tetsudo/pages/jrc285.htm
  30. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzAfijbrK34
  31. https://www.sunriseexpresstickets.com/post/booking-sunrise-seto-and-izumo-tickets-in-2025-harder-than-ever-but-we-make-it-easy
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.