JR Kyushu 787 series

Data (as of 12 Jan 2024)

History

The 783 series is a type of limited express in Kyushu. JR Kyushu marked the train as its flagship, and introduced them to Limited Express Tsubame (Hakata - Nishi-Kagoshima). Traction is based on that of 811 series, but the exterior design is completely different from any other train in the country, and probably that is why it won the Brunel Award in 1994. It is also worth noting that the 787 series was the last new train for regular services with a buffet car. Some trains also have DX Green Cars (premium first class coaches) and compartments.

The buffet cars were converted to standard seat coaches by 2003 as Kyushu Shinkansen high-speed rail was opened, but the series were still used for Relay Tsubame (Mojiko, Kokura or Hakata - Shin-Yatsushiro). Today, most 787 series units were reallocated again to other limited express services as described below.

Current Operations & Future Prospects

The 787 series is used across the network: Limited Express Hyuga (Nobeoka - Miyazaki Airport), Kaio (Hakata - Nogata), Kasasagi (Hakata - Hizen-kashima), Relay Kamome (Hakata - Takeo-onsen), Kirameki (Mojiko - Hakata), Kirishima (Miyazaki - Kagoshima-Chuo) and Nichirin (Kokura - Miyazaki Airport), as well as a few stopping services in Miyazaki Prefecture. In other words, the series can be seen regularly in the entire island of Kyushu except Kumamoto Prefecture.

In addition, JR Kyushu converted a six-car unit to a sightseeing train 36 plus 3, which is now used for rail tours.