JR East E353 series

Data (as of 12 Jan 2024)

History

The E353 series is the latest tilting train of JR East, designed for limited express services on Chuo Main Line. An E353 series train has bogies with special suspensions, using compressed air to slightly tilt the entire body. It took a while to adjust them suitable for passenger use, resulting in deferral of entry into service.

There are three and nine-carriage units, and can be formed of up to twelve coaches. They replaced not only E351 series but also E257 series.

Current Operations & Future Prospects

The E353 series trains are mainly used for Limited Express Azusa (Shinjuku - Matsumoto) and Kaiji (Shinjuku - Kofu), as well as those for commuters such as Hachioji and Ome on weekdays. They are also operated for Limited Express Fuji Excursion (Shinjuku - Kawaguchiko via Fujikyu Railway).