JNR 713 series Sunshine Miyazaki

Data (as of 12 Oct 2024)

History

The 713 series is a type of suburban train developed by Japanese National Railways. In the early-1980s, JNR planned to introduce new rolling stock to stopping services in Kyushu, providing trains more frequently than ever. Four two-carriage prototype units were introduced in total, with transverse seating and two sets of doors per carriage.

JNR envisaged that the 713 series would be deployed to various lines across the island of Kyushu, but the plan was revoked due to extremely huge deficits. Thus, no more carriage was ordered, and JNR introduced 715 series and 717 series instead, both of which were converted from much older trains.

The 713 series was initially painted ivory with green bands and used on Nagasaki and Sasebo Lines. They were repainted white with blue bands in 1986-87, but replaced with 813 series in 1996. All trainsets were refurbished, named Sunshine Miyazaki and reallocated to Miyazaki Airport Line. They became compatible with driver-only operation in 2003, and their traction was replaced with new one in 2008-10.

Current Operations & Future Prospects

The 713 series has been used on Nippo Main Line (Nobeoka - Nishi-Miyakonojo) as well as Miyazaki Airport Line, all in accordance with fixed schedules (during rush hours only). Two out of four units are in service while the other two have been in storage. The other trains are likely to retire in the very near future.