JR Hokkaido 733 series

Data (as of 21 Dec 2024)

History

The 733 series is a commuter train EMU type developed by JR Hokkaido. It is based on 731 series but slightly improved. They have three sets of doors with no enclosed vestibule, and longitudinal seating (except "u seat" coaches). Each unit consists of three or six coaches.

They were initially introduced to Sassho Line in 2012 when the line was electrified. More units with "u seat" coaches were introduced to Airport services to and from New Chitose Airport, replacing some 721 series units (and they were reallocated to stopping services, replacing all 711 series). And in 2015, the 733 series was delivered to Hakodate area as new bullet train line (Hokkaido Shinkansen) was opened.

More units have been introduced to Sapporo area since 2024 to replace 721 series.

Current Operations & Future Prospects

The 733 series are allocated to Sapporo and Hakodate areas. Those in Sapporo area are used on Chitose, Hakodate Main, Muroran and Sassho Lines (including services to and from the airport), often formed of six coaches with other trains (721 series, 731 series and 735 series). Those in Hakodate area are used for Hakodate Liner (Hakodate - Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto), which connects the city centre and the bullet train station.