Minakami (train) explained

Minakami
Type:Limited express
First:1964 (Semi express)
1997 (Limited express)
Last:2010
Operator:JR East
Line Used:Tōhoku Main Line, Takasaki Line, Joetsu Line
Stock:651 series EMUs
Speed:110abbr=onNaNabbr=on

The was a limited express train service in Japan operated by the East Japan Railway Company (JR East) between Ueno in Tokyo and Minakami in Gunma Prefecture.[1]

History

The Minakami service (written in hiragana as "みなかみ") began as a semi-express service between Ueno and Minakami from 1 October 1964. This operated until 30 September 1965, after which the train was renamed Okutone.[2]

The name was revived from 1 October 1997 (this time written in kanji as "水上") following the renaming of the former Tanigawa limited express service.[1]

From the start of the revised timetable on 4 December 2010, the Minakami will cease to be a regular service, operating only during busy seasons.[3]

Rolling stock

Services were formed of 7-car 651 series EMU formations, sometimes coupled with Akagi services.[4]

External links

Notes and References

  1. Book: こだわりの新幹線&特急列車ガイド . In-depth Shinkansen & Limited Express Guide. Ikaros . 2000 . Japan . 86 . 4-87149-284-2.
  2. Book: 列車名鑑1995 . Train Name Directory 1995. Railway Journal. August 1995 . Japan. 130.
  3. 2010年12月 ダイヤ改正について (Details of December 2010 Timetable Revision) . JR East . 24 September 2010 . 25 September 2010 . ja.
  4. Book: JR新幹線&特急列車ファイル . JR Shinkansen & Limited Express Train File. Kōtsū Shimbun . 2008 . Japan . 72. 978-4-330-00608-6.