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E3 Series Shinkansen

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E3 series
Image
Refurbished E3 Series train near Omiya Station
In service22 March 1997 (1997-03-22) – present[1][2]
Manufacturers
DesignerKenji Ekuan
Family nameMini-Shinkansen
Replaced400 series
Constructed1995–2009
Scrapped2013–2026
Number built261 vehicles (41 sets)
Number in service84 vehicles (12 sets) (as of March 2024)
Number scrapped163 vehicles
SuccessorE6 and E8 series
Formation
  • 7 cars per trainset
  • 6 cars per trainset (until 2022)
  • 5 cars per trainset (Akita Shinkansen only, until 1998)
Fleet numbersR1–R26, L51–L55, L61–L72
Capacity
  • 6-car R sets: 338 (23 Green + 315 Standard)
  • 7-car L50 sets (E3-1000): 402 (23 Green + 379 ordinary)
  • 7-car L60 sets (E3-2000): 394 (23 Green + 371 ordinary)
Operators
DepotsAkita, Yamagata
Lines served
Specifications
Car body constructionAluminium
Car length20.05 to 23.07 m (65 ft 9 in to 75 ft 8 in)
Width2,945 mm (9 ft 8 in)
Height
  • 4,080 mm (13 ft 5 in) (roof height)
  • 4,280 mm (14 ft 1 in) (pantograph cover height)
Floor height1,300 mm (4 ft 3 in)
Doors1 per side
Maximum speed
  • Operation: 275 km/h (171 mph)
  • Design: 315 km/h (196 mph)
Traction systemGTO or IGBT-VVVF (6-car sets: 16 x 300 kW,
7-car sets: 20 x 300 kW)
Power output
  • 6-car sets: 4.8 MW (6,437 hp)
  • 7-car sets: 6 MW (8,046 hp)
Gear ratio28:85 (3.04)
Acceleration
  • Tohoku Shinkansen:
    1.6 km/(h⋅s) (0.99 mph/s)
  • Yamagata Shinkansen:
    2 km/(h⋅s) (1.2 mph/s)
Deceleration5.2 km/(h⋅s) (3.2 mph/s)
Electric systems
Current collectionPantograph
Bogies
  • DT207 (1st generation motor car)
  • DT207A (2nd to 4th generation motor car)
  • DT207B (5th to 7th generation, 2000 series motor car)
  • TR7005 (1st generation trailer car)
  • TR7005A (2nd to 4th generation, 2000 series trailer car)
  • TR7005B (5th to 7th generation trailer car)
Braking systemsRegenerative brake combined with electrically controlled air brake and retarder brake (conventional line section)
Safety systemsATC-2, DS-ATC, ATS-P
Multiple workingUp to two units: 200, E2, E4 or E5 series
Track gauge1,435 mm (4 ft 8+1⁄2 in) standard gauge

The E3 series (Japanese: E3系) is a Japanese Shinkansen high-speed train type built for Komachi services introduced on 3 June 1997, coinciding with the opening of the new Akita Shinkansen, a so-called "mini-Shinkansen" line formed by regauging the 1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in) narrow-gauge line between Morioka and Akita to 1,435 mm (4 ft 8+1⁄2 in) standard gauge. Later variants of the E3 series were introduced for Tsubasa services on the Yamagata Shinkansen. Both mini-Shinkansen routes connect with the Tōhoku Shinkansen, providing through services to and from Tokyo.

Design

[edit]

The design of the E3 series was overseen by industrial designer Kenji Ekuan.[3]

Image
An extended gap filler on an E3 series Komachi set

Like the earlier 400 series, the E3 series was built to a smaller loading gauge than standard Shinkansen trains. Although the track gauge on the mini-Shinkansen routes was converted to standard gauge, platform positions were not altered, resulting in tighter clearances that restrict the width and length of each car. To compensate for the narrower car bodies, the trains are fitted with retractable gap fillers that flip up at standard Shinkansen stations to bridge the gap between the train and the platform.

The E3 series uses DT207 bolsterless bogies for motor cars and TR7005 bolsterless bogies for trailer cars, with their design being based on those used on the 400 Series.[4] The wheel diameter is 860 mm, the wheelbase (distance between the two axles of a bogie) is 2,250 mm, and the axlebox suspension uses a support-plate system.[4][5]

Starting with the production trains (2nd batch onward), the bogies were designated DT207A (motor bogie) and TR7005A (trailer bogie), reflecting revisions to the original designs.[6][7] However, the motor bogies on the 0 and 1000 series 5th through 7th production batches, as well as on the 2000 series, were designated DT207B, while the trailer bogies on the 0 and 1000 series fifth through seventh production batches were designated TR7005B.[8][9]

From spring 2014 to mid 2016 the remaining fleet of 15 E3-1000 and E3-2000 series sets used on Tsubasa services were gradually repainted into a new livery designed by industrial designer and Yamagata native Ken Okuyama, intended to reflect the landscape and cultural identity of Yamagata Prefecture.[10][11] The body is finished in white, symbolising the snow of Mount Zaō; deep purple, inspired by the Mandarin duck, the prefectural bird of Yamagata; and accents of red and yellow derived from the safflower, the prefectural flower.[10] This same livery was applied to the later E8 series which is slated to replace the E3.[12] On 11 February 2023, as the E3 series neared retirement, one set was repainted as a heritage unit in the original silver and green livery.[13]

Variants

[edit]
  • E3-0 series "R" sets: 26 × 6-car sets (R1–R16 initially delivered as 5-car sets) used on Akita Shinkansen Komachi services from 3 June 1997 to 14 March 2014.
  • E3-1000 series "LR" sets: 3 × 7-car sets used on Yamagata Shinkansen Tsubasa services from 4 December 1999. Two E3-1000 sets L51 and L52 were withdrawn in 2014 and E3-0 sets R23–R26 were converted into L54 and L55 and entered service as replacements.
  • E3-2000 series "LR" sets: 12 × 7-car sets used on Yamagata Shinkansen Tsubasa services since 20 December 2008. All sets were repainted between 2014 and 2016.
  • E3-700 series Toreiyu: 6-car excursion set used on the Yamagata Shinkansen from July 2014 to March 2022.
  • E3-700 series Genbi Shinkansen: 6-car excursion set used on the Jōetsu Shinkansen from 29 April 2016 to December 2020.[14]

Pre-series set

[edit]

A pre-series 5-car set, numbered S8, was delivered from Kawasaki Heavy Industries to Sendai Depot in March 1995 for extensive testing. It was modified to full-production specifications in March 1997 ahead of the start of Akita Shinkansen services.[15]

Until it was augmented to six cars in 1998, the pre-series was formed as follows, with scissors-type pantographs on cars 12, 13, and 14.[15] Set R1 was withdrawn following its final revenue run on 20 July 2013.[16]

Set R1 (set S8 before conversion) (1st batch)

[edit]
  • The front end of the lead car differs from that of mass-produced trains and resembles the design of the 400 Series.[Note 1]
  • The headlights and rear marker lights are located above the cab window, and two auxiliary lights (high intensity discharge lamps) under the cab window. The auxiliary lights (HID lights) were adopted on a trial basis after drivers of the previous 400 series pointed out the need for improved illumination on conventional lines.[17]
  • At the time of completion, the trains were equipped with three lower-frame cross-type pantographs: the E326-1 and E325-1 were fitted with the PS9034 type for Shinkansen sections, while the E329-1 was fitted with the PS204X type for conventional-line sections.[4] These were replaced with single-arm pantographs during modifications for mass production.
  • On June 24, 1995, test runs were conducted with E326-1 equipped with a prototype pantograph that featured an additional arm attached to a single-arm pantograph.[18] At a Shinkansen event held in Sendai on July 23 of the same year, E325-1 was displayed with its pantograph replaced from the prototype design to a PS206-type single-arm pantograph[19]
  • The pantograph covers on the E326-1 and E325-1 are equipped with a pneumatic cylinder-driven mechanism that allows them to move up and down.[20] This allows the covers to be lowered during operation on conventional-line sections to avoid interfering with the vehicle clearance limits, and raised by 200 mm during operation on Shinkansen sections.[20] The E329-1 has a fixed cover because it is a pantograph for conventional lines.[20] Since E329-1 is equipped with a pantograph designed for conventional rail sections, its cover is fixed.[20]
  • The toilets in the men's restrooms are installed at an angle.
  • The logo at the time of delivery was “Series E3” (later changed to the same logo as the mass-produced sets).
  • The size of the static electricity antenna on Car 11 (E311-1) differs from that of the mass-produced sets.
  • At the time of completion, the plan was to first transport the units manufactured by Kawasaki Heavy Industries to Zushi via special transport and then deliver them together with those manufactured by Tokyu Car Corporation, however, due to delays in the Kawasaki Heavy Industries units caused by the Great Hanshin Earthquake, the units manufactured by Tokyu Car Corporation were delivered first.
  • Test runs were conducted on the Yamagata Shinkansen prior to the modifications for mass production.[21]
  • With the introduction of the E6 series, this set ceased commercial operation on July 20, 2013[22] and was scrapped.
Car No. 11 12 13 14 15
Designation M1sc M2 T M1 M2c
Numbering E311-1 E326-1 E329-1 E325-1 E322-1

E3 series "R" sets

[edit]
Image
Set R18 coupled to an E5 series set on a Hayate/Komachi service in June 2013

The full-production trainsets built from 1996 for the Akita Shinkansen were 5-car sets, but a sixth car were added by the end of 1998. A total of 26 Akita Shinkansen sets were in service by the end of 2005. Sets R1 to R16 were leased by East Japan Railway Company (JR East) from the owning company, Akita Shinkansen Sharyō Hoyū (秋田新幹線車両保有(株); lit. 'Akita Shinkansen Rolling Stock Co., Ltd.'), a third-sector company jointly owned by JR East and Akita Prefecture.[23] This lease ended on 21 March 2010 with the dissolution of Akita Shinkansen Sharyō Hoyū.[24]

The E3 series sets were phased out following the introduction of new E6 series sets from March 2013, with 19 sets (114 vehicles) scheduled to be withdrawn during fiscal 2013.[25] From the start of the 15 March 2014 timetable revision, E3 series trainsets were no longer used on Akita Shinkansen Komachi services.[26] Two sets (R21 and R22) were used on Yamabiko and Nasuno services coupled to the E5/H5 series in their original "Komachi" colors before being retired on 31 October 2020. This is believed to have happened due to the decrease in passengers caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.[26][27]

Sets R2 - R16 (2nd batch)

[edit]

These mass-produced sets were completed before the opening of the Akita Shinkansen in March 1997. They were originally five-car sets, but were lengthened to six cars by coupling new E328 series (3rd generation) cars between October and December of the following year.[28] As a result, an insulator cover (renamed from "pantograph cover" on the production sets[29]) without a pantograph is located at the connection between the E329 and E328 cars (Cars 13 and 14). (The same applies to R1; it is the second cover shown in the photo above).

  • To counteract micro-pressure waves in tunnels and reduce noise, the front end design of the lead car was modified.[29]
  • The headlights and rear marker lights were grouped together below the driver's cab window.[29] The high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps had been experimentally installed on the pre-production set, but they were officially adopted starting with the production vehicles.[29]
  • The passenger compartment is nearly identical to that of the pre-production set,[29] but in the production sets, the side window curtains feature a woven design inspired by the Akita Kanto Festival.[29]
  • The trash bins installed on each deck were divided into three categories: bottles and cans, newspapers and magazines, and general waste.[29][30] Since the Akita Shinkansen trains operate for long periods, a garbage compactor was added to compress the general waste every 15 minutes to prevent waste from overflowing.[29][30]
  • While the Green Cars on the pre-production set were equipped with spot air conditioning (individual climate control) above the seats, this feature was omitted in the production sets.[29]
  • The layout of the equipment in the driver’s cab was significantly revised.[29]
  • A newly developed, low-noise PS206-type single-arm pantograph was adopted.[29] Since the pantograph itself was designed to be low noise, the vertically adjustable pantograph cover found on the pre-production set was removed, and a new, sloped “insulator cover” was installed to protect the insulators and cable heads from airflow.[29]
  • Since the 2nd batch trainsets were completed before the opening of the Akita Shinkansen, they underwent test runs on the Yamagata Shinkansen.[31]
  • The E328 type (T2) cars, which were added in 1998, are trailer (non-powered) cars generally based on the earlier E329 type (T1). However, because they do not carry an auxiliary power supply unit, which reduced their axle load, their floor panels were made of steel instead of aluminum honeycomb material, and additional deadweight (ballast) was installed to compensate.[32]

Set R17 (3rd batch)

[edit]

Additional set completed in 1998. This set was added to increase transportation capacity following the timetable revision at the end of the same year. Sets completed after and including set R17 were built as six-car formations.

  • The terminal covers located at the coupling points between the E329 and E328 series (Cars 13 and 14) were omitted, reducing the total number of terminal covers to two.[33]
  • The driver's cab is equipped with 2 wipers, which includes an auxiliary wiper.[33]
  • Up to and including this trainset, the VVVF inverter control system used GTO thyristors. Among the trainsets completetd after R17 which incorporated these changes, this set was the only one to retain its GTO thyristors.
  • During the summer holiday season in 2008, as part of a collaboration project with All Nippon Airways (ANA), the set was wrapped in a "Pokémon Pika-Nori Summer" design along with the set R21.[34]

Sets R18 - R23 (5th batch)

[edit]

These additional sets were delivered between 2002 (Heisei 14) and 2003 (Heisei 15) to increase transport capacity and replace the later production batches of the unmodified 200 Series trains.[Note 2] The main differences from Sets R17 and earlier are listed below. In terms of specifications, the 4th batch sets (1000-series L51 and L52 sets) for the Yamagata Shinkansen were manufactured between the 3rd and 5th batch sets, and the improvements made to those sets were also incorporated.[35]

  • The dynamic dampers used in the trailing cars of the 4th batch trains were ommited, and ride comfort was improved through the use of underfloor dead weight and roof-mounted vibration-damping materials.[35]
  • The material of the inter-car curtains was changed from polyurethane to synthetic rubber.
  • Footrests were installed in front of the seats in standard-class cars. [8][Note 3]
  • The seat design was changed to one featuring a sliding seat cushion.[35][Note 4]
  • The main power converter elements were changed from GTO thyristors to IGBTs, similar to the E2 Series 1000-series.[8]
  • From their manufacture, the sets were equipped with DS-ATC and digital train radio.[8]
  • Cars 11 and 16 were equipped with full-active suspension, while cars 12–15 were equipped with semi-active suspension.
  • Grips were provided on the seat shoulders.[Note 5]
  • A door chime was added.
  • The toilet in Car 11 was replaced with a heated bidet toilet seat.
  • The specifications of the men's restroom had been changed. (Only for sets R18-R23[Note 6])

R24 - R26 train (6th batch)

[edit]

These additional sets were completed in 2005 (Heisei 17) to increase transportation capacity and replace the 200 series H formations (the 12-car H4 and H5 formations) that had been used for peak passenger season special trains (along with the simultaneously added E2 Series 1000-series J66–J68 sets and the 1000-series L53 set for the Yamagata Shinkansen).[36]

  • Some materials were changed to enhance fire safety measures.[35]
  • The support posts for the luggage racks, which had been installed every three seats, were omitted.[8]
  • Baby changing stations were installed in the restrooms.[8]
  • Braille labels and tactile maps for the visually impaired were installed in the aisles and restrooms.[8]
  • To accommodate VIP guests, the E311 end car was prepared for the future installation of a police radio antenna on its roof.[8]

Formation

[edit]
Car No. 11 12 13 14 15 16
Designation M1sc M2 T1 T2 M1 M2c
Numbering E311 E326 E329 E328 E325 E322
Seating capacity 23 67 60 68 64 56

Cars 12 and 15 were equipped with PS206 single-arm pantographs.[23]

Fleet history

[edit]
Image
Set R20 being hauled through Omiya Station on delivery in March 2003
Image
Set R24 being delivered in March 2005
Image
Set R25 being hauled by JNR Class EF65 through Nishi-Kokubunji Station on delivery in June 2005

The build details are as shown below.[37] As of 25 November 2021, the last of the original 26 sets (R22) was scrapped.[38]

Set Delivered 6th car added Withdrawn Remarks
R1 28 March 1995 29 October 1998 26 August 2013 Pre-series set S8 (originally 5 cars with 3 pantographs)
R2 9 October 1996 1 November 1998 13 December 2013[39] Built as 5-car sets
R3 14 October 1996 4 November 1998 17 February 2014[39]
R4 22 October 1996 6 November 1998 9 January 2014[39]
R5 28 October 1996 9 November 1998 26 April 2013
R6 6 November 1996 12 November 1998 12 April 2013
R7 11 November 1996 22 November 1998 17 May 2013
R8 15 November 1996 24 November 1998 24 May 2013
R9 22 November 1996 26 November 1998 7 June 2013
R10 2 December 1996 28 November 1998 27 August 2013
R11 12 December 1996 30 October 1998 13 September 2013
R12 21 December 1996 17 November 1998 27 November 2013[39]
R13 20 January 1997 5 December 1998 19 October 2013[39]
R14 30 January 1997 14 November 1998 1 December 2013[39]
R15 7 February 1997 16 November 1998 28 January 2014[39]
R16 17 February 1997 19 November 1998 8 March 2014[39]
R17 30 September 1998 N/a 26 July 2013
R18 23 October 2002 6 March 2022 Converted 2014 to E3-700 series Toreiyu[40]
R19 18 November 2002 1 March 2021 Converted 2016 to E3-700 series Genbi Shinkansen[41]
R20 24 March 2003 17 December 2015[42]
R21 16 September 2003 13 September 2021
R22 27 October 2003 25 November 2021
R23 1 December 2003 25 May 2014 Converted 2014 to become Set L55
R24 4 April 2005 4 December 2013[Note 7] Converted 2014 to become Set L54
R25 11 July 2005 18 December 2013[Note 8] Converted 2014 to become Set L54
R26 25 July 2005 6 July 2014 Converted 2014 to become Set L55

Interior

[edit]

E3-1000 series

[edit]
Image
E3-1000 series set L52 on a Tsubasa service in July 2006

Three 7-car E3-1000 sets (numbered L51 – L53) were built between 1999 and 2005 for use on Yamagata Shinkansen Tsubasa services from 4 December 1999 to augment the 400 series fleet following with the extension of the line to Shinjo.[43] From 2014, a further two sets (L54 and L55) were introduced, reformed from withdrawn Akita Shinkansen E3-0 series "R" sets, to replace the two older sets L51 and L52.[44]

With effect of the timetable revision implemented in March 2024, following the introduction of the E8 Series Shinkansen, all remaining E3-1000 series trains were withdrawn from regular service.[45]

Sets L51 and 52 (4th batch)

[edit]

These sets were added to the fleet in 1999 for the opening of the Shinjo extension.[46] While their electrical equipment and windshield wipers are similar to those of the R17 set of the 0 series, their interior design and other features were designed specifically for Yamagata Shinkansen service. The powered seat-rotation mechanism was only provisioned for future installation (the equipment itself was not fitted), and these sets are not equipped with trash compactors.[46]

Set L53 (7th batch)

[edit]

Completed in 2005, L53 retained an interior almost identical to the 4th batch L51 and L52 trainsets. However, because the 5th batch Akita Shinkansen trainsets (R18–R23) had been introduced in the interim, its electrical systems and onboard equipment were updated to the same specifications as the contemporaneously built 6th batch Akita Shinkansen trainsets (R24–R26). Unlike the 4th batch trainsets, which used an applied film for the green stripe, L53 received a painted stripe. It was also the only newly built 1000-series trainset delivered in the new livery.[35]

Formation

[edit]

The sets were formed as shown below, with five motored ("M") cars and two non-powered trailer ("T") cars, and car 11 at the Tokyo end.

Car No. 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
Designation M1sc M2 T1 M2 T2 M1 M2c
Numbering E311-1000 E326-1000 E329-1000 E326-1100 E328-1000 E325-1000 E322-1000
Seating capacity 23 67 60 68 64 64 56

Cars 12 and 14 were equipped with PS206 single-arm pantographs.[23]

Interior

[edit]

Fleet history

[edit]
Image
Set L53 on delivery from Tokyu Car in July 2005
Image
Set L54, rebuilt from sets R24 and R25, in March 2015

The build details are as shown below.[39]

Set Manufacturer Delivered Repainted Withdrawn Notes
L51 Tokyu Car 11 August 1999 N/a 5 September 2014[47]
L52 Kawasaki 11 September 1999 N/a 4 February 2015[48]
L53 Tokyu Car 17 August 2005 24 November 2015[49] 18 March 2024[50]
L54 Kawasaki[48] 30 July 2014[48] 15 May 2024[51] Rebuilt from sets R24 and R25[44]
L55 J-TREC[48] 13 January 2015[48] 15 May 2024[52] Rebuilt from sets R23 and R26[44]

E3-2000 series

[edit]
Image
E3-2000 series set L67 in original livery in May 2009

The first of a fleet of twelve new E3-2000 series 7-car sets entered service on Yamagata Shinkansen Tsubasa services on 20 December 2008.[53] The new fleet totally replaced the older 400 series trains by summer 2009. The new trains incorporate design improvements, including active suspension, full-color LED destination indicators, and AC power outlets in all cars.[54] Seating capacity in cars 16 and 17 has been reduced by 4 (one row of seats) compared with the E3-1000 series to provide uniform seating pitch in all cars (seat pitch was previously reduced in non-reserved cars).

Formation

[edit]
Car No. 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
Designation M1sc M2 T1 M2 T2 M1 M2c
Numbering E311-2000 E326-2000 E329-2000 E326-2100 E328-2000 E325-2000 E322-2000
Seating capacity 23 67 60 68 64 60 52

Cars 12 and 14 are equipped with PS206 single-arm pantographs.[23]

Fleet history

[edit]
Image
E3-2000 series set L67 in updated livery in September 2015

As of 1 October 2016, the E3-2000 series fleet is as follows.[49][needs update]

Set Manufacturer Delivered Repainted Withdrawn Notes
L61 Kawasaki 9 October 2008 6 July 2016 7 December 2024
L62 Kawasaki 9 December 2008 Unknown 26 June 2025
L63 Kawasaki 7 January 2009 24 November 2015 17 December 2024
L64 Kawasaki 17 February 2009 25 April 2014 25 December 2024
L65 Kawasaki 3 March 2009 6 June 2014

11 February 2023 (heritage unit)
L66 Kawasaki 25 March 2009 22 October 2014 22 August 2024
L67 Tokyu Car 28 March 2009 12 November 2014
L68 Kawasaki 14 April 2009 5 December 2014
L69 Kawasaki 19 May 2009 23 February 2015 Started operations as a cargo shinkansen on 23/03/2026
L70 Kawasaki 30 June 2009 6 April 2016 22 October 2025
L71 Kawasaki 22 July 2009 24 April 2016 22 November 2025
L72 Kawasaki 25 March 2010 18 September 2015

Interior

[edit]

Toreiyu excursion set

[edit]
Image
E3-700 series Toreiyu set R18 in September 2015

The E3-700 series Toreiyu (とれいゆ) excursion set was a six-car train rebuilt from former Akita Shinkansen trainset R18 for use on the Yamagata Shinkansen between Shinjō and Fukushima, entering service in July 2014.[40][55] The rebuild and interior design were overseen by Ken Okuyama.[56] Toreiyu is a portmanteau of the English word "train" and the French word soleil (“sun”), the set had a total seating capacity of 143 passengers.[55]

Cars 12 to 14 featured Japanese-style tatami seating mats, car 11 was a reserved ordinary-class car with coventional 2+2 seating, car 15 served as a lounge with a bar counter, and car 16 was equipped with ashiyu foot baths.[55] The train was normally operated on special Toreiyu Tsubasa services on weekends and was withdrawn from service in March 2022.[55][57]

Formation

[edit]

The Toreiyu set was based at Yamagata Depot and formed as shown below, with car 11 at the Fukushima end.[40]

Car No. 11 12 13 14 15 16
Designation M1c M2 T1 T2 M1 M2c
Numbering E321-701 E326-701 E329-701 E328-701 E325-701 E322-701
Facilities 2+2 seating Japanese-style seating Lounge + bar counter Ashiyu foot baths

Genbi Shinkansen excursion set

[edit]
Image
Genbi Shinkansen set in September 2016

E3-700 series Genbi Shinkansen (現美新幹線; lit. 'contemporary art Shinkansen') was a six-car excursion train rebuilt from former Akita Shinkansen trainset R19 at Kawasaki Heavy Industries in Kobe for operation on the Jōetsu Shinkansen between Echigo-Yuzawa and Niigata.

The exterior livery was designed by photographer Mika Ninagawa.[41] Each car featured artwork by a different artist: car 11 had 2+2 seating and showcased a golden-yellow installation by Nao Matsumoto inspired by harvests, festivals, and light, with window shades using special dyes that reacted to changes in light when passing through tunnels; car 12 featured mirrored walls by Yusuke Komuta that reflected the surrounding scenery; car 13 combined a children’s play area designed by Art Unit Paramodel, featuring blue-and-white toy train motifs, with a café designed by Kentaro Kobuke serving sweets made with local ingredients; car 14 displayed an alpine photography exhibition by Naoki Ishikawa; car 15 featured an abstract floral artwork by Haruka Koujin designed to vibrate with the motion of the train; and car 16 screened a short film by Brian Alfred depicting the landscapes of Niigata Prefecture.[58]

The completed trainset was unveiled to the media on 12 January 2016 and entered service on 29 April 2016, operating primarily on weekends and holidays, and was withdrawn on 19 December 2020.[41][59][60]

Formation

[edit]

The Genbi Shinkansen set was based at Niigata Depot and formed as shown below, with car 11 at the Tokyo end.[59]

Car No. 11 12 13 14 15 16
Designation M1c M2 T1 T2 M1 M2c
Numbering E321-702 E326-702 E329-702 E328-702 E325-702 E322-702
Former number E311-19 E326-19 E329-19 E328-19 E325-19 E322-19
Facilities 2+2 seating Art gallery spaces Cafe + children's play area Art gallery spaces

Cars 12 and 15 each had one single-arm pantograph.[59]

Derivatives

[edit]
Image
Class E926 "East-i" train

East-i inspection train

[edit]

The Class E926 Shinkansen, also known as the "East-i" is an inspection train based on the E3 used for track and overhead wire diagnostic work on the Tōhoku, Jōetsu, Hokuriku, Hokkaido, Yamagata, and Akita Shinkansen lines.

Cargo Shinkansen

[edit]

JR East is currently modifying and repainting E3 shinkansen trainsets from the E3-2000 series after withdrawing them from regular Tsubasa services on the Yamagata Shinkansen for freight-only services by removing passenger seating and adding equipment to secure cargo. It would be capable of transporting about 1000 containers of goods and has a maximum loading capacity of 17.4 tons. The modified trainsets will be transporting high-value goods including seafood, pharmaceuticals, and precision instruments between Morioka and Tokyo, coupling to E5 shinkansen Yamabiko services for its journey on weekday only services. Its the first cargo shinkansen ever and it began operation on the 23rd of March 2026 with set L69.[61][62][63]

Indian inspection train

[edit]

One used E3 Series trainset is planned to be gifted to India (alongside a E5 Series trainset) for use as an inspection train on the Mumbai–Ahmedabad high-speed rail corridor, after modifications are carried out to install relevant equipment. This follows the precedent of a 0 Series being provided to Taiwan to serve as a structure gauging car during construction of the Taiwan High Speed Rail. Besides inspecting the tracks and overhead lines, it is expected that the trains will be used to collect data on performance in India's hot climate and dusty environment, and help inform development of the E10 Series for Indian service.[64][65]

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]
  1. ↑ It tapers toward the coupler cover and has a rounded shape.
  2. ↑ The earlier production models were replaced with E2 Series "J" set trains and E4 Series trains.
  3. ↑ Up until set R17, this feature was only availible in green cars.
  4. ↑ It is the same type used on the E257 series and the 5th batch of the 253 series, which were manufactured around the same time.
  5. ↑ The shape of the grips differs between Green Cars and regular cars.
  6. ↑ Sets R24-R26 returned to the same specifications as the earlier R2–R17 trainsets.
  7. ↑ Cars 11 and 14-16[39]
  8. ↑ Car 14[39]

References

[edit]
  1. ↑ "山形新幹線の「E3系」年内に運行終了へ 多くの乗客に親しまれた鼻の短い「ミニ新幹線」車両に幕". 乗りものニュース (in Japanese). 30 September 2025. Retrieved 30 September 2025.
  2. ↑ "山形新幹線E3系つばさ、つなぐ。:JR東日本". www.jreast.co.jp (in Japanese). Archived from the original on 15 June 2025. Retrieved 30 September 2025.
  3. ↑ "The Works of GK Design Group". GK Design Group Inc. Archived from the original on 17 February 2015. Retrieved 10 February 2015.
  4. 1 2 3 E3 Series Electric Train, Akita Shinkansen Mass-Produced Pre-Train (No. 246 ed.). etrain.jp. June 1995. pp. 72–83.
  5. ↑ JR East E3 Series Shinkansen Train (June 1995 ed.). Railway Fan. pp. 12–19.
  6. ↑ "JR East E3 Series Shinkansen Trains (Mass-Production Models),". No. January 1997. Railway Fan. pp. 54–55.
  7. ↑ "DT207A TR7005A / JR East E3 Series Shinkansen". Archived from the original on 9 June 2016. Retrieved 7 July 2026.
  8. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 "JR East E3 Series 7th Batch Yamagata Shinkansen Electric Train". Tokyu Car Technical Report. No. 55. Tokyu Car Corporation. December 2005. pp. 96–97.
  9. ↑ "DT207B TR7005A / JR East E3-2000 series". Archived from the original on 24 August 2016. Retrieved 30 May 2025.
  10. 1 2 "山形新幹線E3系のエクステリアデザインを変更" [Exterior design change for Yamagata Shinkansen E3 series]. Japan Railfan Magazine Online (in Japanese). Japan: Koyusha Co., Ltd. 4 March 2014. Retrieved 4 March 2014.
  11. ↑ 山形新幹線 「つばさ」塗装リニューアル [Yamagata Shinkansen Tsubasa trains to be repainted]. Kahoku Online Network (in Japanese). Japan: Kahoku Shimpo Publishing. 29 August 2013. Archived from the original on 1 September 2013. Retrieved 30 August 2013.
  12. ↑ "山形新幹線をより便利に快適にします" [Make the Yamagata Shinkansen more convenient and comfortable] (PDF). jreast.co.jp. 東日本旅客鉄道株式会社. 3 March 2020. Archived (PDF) from the original on 3 March 2020. Retrieved 3 March 2020.
  13. ↑ "JR東日本E3系「つばさ」山形新幹線「懐かしのシルバーカラー」復刻" [JR East E3 Series Yamagata Shinkansen "Nostalgic Silver Color" Repaint]. MyNavi Corporation (in Japanese). 11 February 2023. Archived from the original on 12 February 2023. Retrieved 14 February 2023.
  14. ↑ "現美新幹線、2020年12月ラストランへ | 鉄道ニュース".
  15. 1 2 新幹線電車データブック2011 [Shinkansen Databook 2011]. Japan: Kotsu Shimbunsha. March 2011. ISBN 978-4-330-19811-8.
  16. ↑ JR東日本E3系R1編成引退 [JR East E3 series set R1 retired]. The Railway Pictorial (in Japanese). 63 (880). Japan: Denkisha Kenkyūkai: 92. October 2013.
  17. ↑ Drivers' Association Journal. Japan Railway Drivers' Association. March 1997. pp. 102–104.
  18. ↑ Further report on E2 and E3 series test runs. Koyusha Railway Fan. September 1995. p. 116.
  19. ↑ Further report on E2 and E3 series test runs. Koyusha Railway Fan. October 1995. p. 116.
  20. 1 2 3 4 JR East E3 Series Shinkansen Train. Koyusha. June 1995. pp. 12–19.
  21. ↑ Railway Fan (412 ed.). Koyusha. August 1995. p. 119.
  22. ↑ "Ceremony to mark the retirement of the Akita Shinkansen E3 Series "R1" train" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 26 June 2013.
  23. 1 2 3 4 JR電車編成表 2009夏 [JR EMU Formations - Summer 2009]. Japan: Kotsu Shimbunsha. June 2009. ISBN 978-4-330-06909-8.
  24. ↑ 県に出資金１１５億円返還へ 秋田新幹線車両保有会社. Akita Sakigake Shimpo (in Japanese). Japan. 22 January 2010. Archived from the original on 17 July 2011. Retrieved 4 February 2010.
  25. ↑ 2013年度総合車両センター関係業務改善が提案される [Work Improvements Proposed for General Rolling Stock Center in Fiscal 2013] (PDF). Danketsu (in Japanese). Japan: National Railway Workers' Union. 27 January 2013. Retrieved 11 February 2013.
  26. 1 2 3月15日ダイヤ改正と各地の話題 [15 March timetable revision and topics from around the regions]. Tetsudō Daiya Jōhō Magazine (in Japanese). Vol. 43, no. 361. Japan: Kōtsū Shimbun. May 2014. p. 13.
  27. ↑ "Farewell, "First Komachi Color" Former Akita Shinkansen E3 Series, no longer in regular operation What will happen to it in the future?". Retrieved 26 May 2025.
  28. ↑ "JR East E3 Series Additional Cars". No. February 1999. Railway Fan. pp. 66–67.
  29. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 "JR East E3 Series Shinkansen Trains (Mass-Production Models),". No. January 1997. Railway Fan. pp. 50–53.
  30. 1 2 Noteworthy topics about the Akita Shinkansen train "Komachi" (E3 series) and its development history. March 1997. pp. 102–104.
  31. ↑ "E3 Series Mass-Produced Car". Koyusha. pp. 66–67.
  32. ↑ "JR East E3 Series Additional Cars". Railway Fan. pp. 66–67.
  33. 1 2 JR East E3 Series Additional Cars. Railway Fan. February 1999. pp. 66–67.
  34. ↑ "Pika Nori Summer 2008" (PDF). East Japan Railway Company and All Nippon Airways. 19 June 2008. Archived from the original (PDF) on 9 December 2008. Retrieved 31 May 2025.
  35. 1 2 3 4 5 "JR East E3 Series 7th Yamagata Shinkansen Train". Tokyu Car Technical Report. No. 55. Tokyu Car Corporation. December 2005. p. 95.
  36. ↑ Twenty Year History of East Japan Railway Company. Twenty Year History of East Japan Railway Company. pp. 175–176.
  37. ↑ JR電車編成表 2013夏 [JR EMU Formations - Summer 2013]. Japan: Kotsu Shimbunsha. May 2013. p. 20. ISBN 978-4-330-37313-3.
  38. ↑ JR電車編成表 2022冬 [JR EMU Formations - Winter 2022] (in Japanese). Tōkyō: Kotsu Shimbunsha. 2021. ISBN 978-4-330-06521-2. OCLC 1286527200.
  39. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 JR電車編成表 2014夏 [JR EMU Formations - Summer 2014]. Japan: Kotsu Shimbunsha. 30 May 2014. pp. 20–24, 356. ISBN 978-4-330-46614-9.
  40. 1 2 3 Shiraishi, Hiroyuki (August 2014). 平成26年3月15日ダイヤ改正にともなうＪＲ東日本車両の動き [JR East fleet changes following 15 March 2014 timetable revision]. Japan Railfan Magazine (in Japanese). Vol. 54, no. 640. Japan: Koyusha Co., Ltd. p. 73.
  41. 1 2 3 E3系改造"GENBI SHINKANSEN"を報道公開 [Rebuilt E3 series "Genbi Shinkansen" shown off to the press]. Tetsudō Daiya Jōhō Magazine (in Japanese). Vol. 45, no. 383. Japan: Kōtsū Shimbun. March 2016. p. 4.
  42. ↑ JR車両のうごき [JR rolling stock changes]. Tetsudō Daiya Jōhō Magazine (in Japanese). Vol. 45, no. 383. Japan: Kōtsū Shimbun. March 2016. p. 127.
  43. ↑ JR電車編成表 2013冬 [JR EMU Formations - Winter 2013]. Japan: Kotsu Shimbunsha. November 2012. p. 24. ISBN 978-4-330-33112-6.
  44. 1 2 3 E3系 山形新幹線転用車両 [E3 series trains reallocated to Yamagata Shinkansen]. Japan Railfan Magazine (in Japanese). Vol. 54, no. 642. Japan: Koyusha Co., Ltd. October 2014. pp. 86–87.
  45. ↑ "JR東日本、E3系1000番代が引退 - 座面シート使ったクッション発売". news.mynavi.jp (in Japanese). Japan: Mynavi Corporation. 25 March 2024. Retrieved 21 April 2024.
  46. 1 2 "JR East Yamagata Shinkansen E3 Series 4th Batch". Railway Fan. Koyusha. November 1999. p. 51-55.
  47. ↑ JR電車編成表 2015冬 [JR EMU Formations - Winter 2015] (in Japanese). Japan: Kotsu Shimbunsha. 21 November 2014. pp. 26, 357. ISBN 978-4-330-51614-1.
  48. 1 2 3 4 5 JR電車編成表 2015夏 [JR EMU Formations - Summer 2015] (in Japanese). Japan: Kotsu Shimbunsha. 20 May 2015. pp. 23, 26, 358. ISBN 978-4-330-56915-4.
  49. 1 2 JR電車編成表 2017冬 [JR EMU Formations - Winter 2017] (in Japanese). Japan: Kotsu Shimbunsha. 16 November 2016. p. 118. ISBN 978-4-330-73716-4.
  50. ↑ "E3系L53編成が新潟へ" [E3 series set L53 forwarded to Niigata]. Japan Railfan Magazine Online (in Japanese). Japan: Koyusha Co., Ltd. 19 March 2024. Retrieved 19 April 2024.
  51. ↑ "E3系L54編成が新潟へ" [E3 series set L54 forwarded to]. Japan Railfan Magazine Online (in Japanese). Japan. 15 May 2024. {{cite web}}: Missing or empty |url= (help)
  52. ↑ "E3系L54編成が新潟へ" [E3 series set L55 forwarded to]. Japan Railfan Magazine Online (in Japanese). Japan. 15 May 2024. {{cite web}}: Missing or empty |url= (help)
  53. ↑ "山形新幹線に新型車両" (New Trains for Yamagata Shinkansen). (20 December 2008) Deprecated link archived 13 July 2012 at archive.today. Retrieved on 20 December 2008. (in Japanese)
  54. ↑ 山形新幹線「つばさ」用車両の新造について (PDF) (Press release) (in Japanese). JR East. 3 July 2007. Retrieved 10 August 2008.
  55. 1 2 3 4 "山形エリアにE3系改造車「とれいゆ」を導入" [Rebuilt E3 series Toreiyu to be introduced in Yamagata area]. Japan Railfan Magazine Online (in Japanese). Japan: Koyusha Co., Ltd. 4 March 2014. Retrieved 4 March 2014.
  56. ↑ 山形新幹線に新たな魅力が誕生します！ [A new allure born on the Yamagata Shinkansen] (PDF). News release (in Japanese). Japan: East Japan Railway Company. 4 March 2014. Retrieved 4 March 2014.
  57. ↑ "JR News: Footbath bullet train Toreiyu Tsubasa to retire in March 2022". JR Times (in Japanese). Retrieved 31 July 2022.
  58. ↑ Japan Railway Journal. Prepaid E-money Cards: The Smart Way to Travel in Japan. Japan Railway Journal. Japan: NHK World-Japan. 3 August 2017. Event occurs at 22:40. Archived from the original on 5 August 2017. Retrieved 4 August 2017.
  59. 1 2 3 E3系「GENBI SHINKANSEN」 [E3 series Genbi Shinkansen]. Japan Railfan Magazine (in Japanese). Vol. 56, no. 661. Japan: Koyusha Co., Ltd. May 2016. pp. 72–73.
  60. ↑ "世界最速の芸術鑑賞「現美新幹線」運行終了のお知らせ" [Notice of the end of operation of the world's fastest art appreciation "Genbi Shinkansen"] (PDF) (Press release) (in Japanese). East Japan Railway Company. 27 July 2020. Archived from the original (PDF) on 27 July 2020. Retrieved 27 July 2020.
  61. ↑ Hosozawa, Ayateru (23 February 2025). "1st cargo-only bullet train to start in fall, link Tokyo, Morioka". The Asahi Shimbun. Archived from the original on 16 January 2026.
  62. ↑ "Cargo-only bullet train debuts to carry goods from Tohoku to Tokyo". The Asahi Shimbun. 23 March 2026.
  63. ↑ "JR East's freight-only shinkansen train goes into service". The Japan Times. 24 March 2026. Retrieved 30 April 2026.
  64. ↑ "Japan to give India E5 and E3 shinkansen for free". The Japan Times. Jiji Press. 15 April 2025. Retrieved 18 June 2025.
  65. ↑ "「Ｅ５系」と「Ｅ３系」無償譲渡へ 日本からインドに、２６年にも" [Japan to transfer E5 and E3 series at no cost to India as early as 2026]. Jiji.com (in Japanese). 16 April 2025.
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