JR East 251 series

Data (as of 16 Oct 2021)

History

The 251 series was a limited-express-train type for trains towards Izu Peninsula. In the 1980s, JR East has been using 185 series for limited express services between Tokyo and the Peninsula, but the 185s were unpopular among passengers because of poor accommodation. JR East decided to launch another limited express service called Super View Odoriko between Tokyo and Izukyu-Shimoda. Each unit consisted of 10 coaches.

As its name suggested, the 251 series had larger windows than other trains, allowing passengers to enjoy scenery. Three coaches per unit were double-decker, and there was a playroom on the lower level of the 10th coach. Traction was based on 651 series. There was a pair of door per carriage, but only one every two coaches was used when operated on Super View Odoriko services.

All units were refurbished in 2002-07, and used not only for Super View Odoriko but also Shonan Liner services on weekdays (namely Ohayo Liner Shinjuku and Home Liner Odawara, both between Shinjuku and Odawara). All units were withdrawn in 2020, as E257 series was refurbished and reallocated to Tokaido Main Line.