Tuesday 25 November 2014

The EMU 787 Series: Kirishima Express

EMU JR Kyushu 787 series, Kirishima Express stands at Miyazaki Station on the Nippo Line
 
Following the historical places, I am going to show you a beautiful natural place in Miyazaki Prefecture today.

Kirishima is a volcanic region located on the border between Miyazaki and Kagoshima prefectures. There are many craters, which emit volcanic gas and water vapor, in the area. Although Kirishima sometimes becomes a violent active volcano, it also has beautiful scenery such as the autumn colors of the leaves. This area was designated as one of Japan's first national parks by the government in 1934.

To get to Kirishima, JR Kyushu Nippo Main Line is convenient. It takes about 80 minutes from Miyazaki by the EMU 787 series, Kirishima Express train. The 787 series is an alternate current (AC) electric train launched in 1992. A total of 140 units have been manufactured by Hitachi and Kinki-Sharyo for eleven years. The 787 series won the 1993 Blue Ribbon Prize by Japan Railfan Club as the best train that debuted in 1992.

The most distinctive feature of this train is its outer design. The metallic body with robotic faces is very unique. It is totally different from that of the other express trains designed by ex-Japanese National Railways, for example the EMU 485 series. The gauge size of the 787 series is 1,067 mm and the electric system is 20,000 V - 60Hz AC overhead. The maximum speed is 130 km per hour.

A trip to Miyazaki is interesting all the way through.

 
Mt. Nakadake (1,332m) in the Kirishima Mountains near Kirishima-jingu Station
 
More information about the EMU 787 series (in Japanese): http://www.toretabi.jp/history/vol22/01.html