JR West 225 series

Data (as of 31 Mar 2024)

History

The 225 series is the latest suburban train of JR West. Accoding to the company, it provides even more comfortable, reliable and safer journeys than 223 series. Unlike the predecessors, the front end of the 225 series is flat and not streamlined, to secure larger crumple zones. There are four, six and eight-carriage units, and they can form a longer train with the 223 series.

Those on Biwako, Kyoto and Kobe Lines were introduced to increase capacity of New Rapid services, as well as to replace some 221 series. Those on Hanwa Line were to replace all 103 series and 205 series on stopping services. The 225 series were also introduced to Fukuchiyama Line to replace 113 series.

Current Operations & Future Prospects

The 225 series trains have been used mainly on Fukuchiyama, Hokuriku Main, Kosei, Biwako, Kyoto and Kobe Lines (Tokaido Main and San-yo Main Lines), as well as Hanwa and Osaka Loop Lines. More are due to be delivered to Biwako, Kyoto and Kobe Lines to replace the 221 series. Some of those introduced after 2023 have A-seat carriage (all-reserved standard-class coach).

Photo

The 225 series on Fukuchiyama Line.