JR West KiHa 127 series

Data (as of 12 Jan 2024)

History

The KiHa 127 series is a type of suburban diesel train for Kishin Line. This rural line starts from Himeji, but areas around stations in Himeji city and nearby towns saw gradual population growth. To make train services more convenient, Hyogo Prefecture, Himeji and Tatsuno cities and Sayo Town have decided to subsidise a modernisation programme for the Line. The series was developed as a part of this project, to raise maximum speed of trains to 100 km/h (62 mph).

The KiHa 127 series consists of two groups: six two-carriage units of KiHa 127s and seven double-ended KiHa 122. The exterior design is similar to that of 223 series, and engines and transmissions are similar to those of KiHa 126 series on San-in Main Line (Tottori and Shimane Prefecture). Seating is transverse one based on that of the 223 series as well.

Echigo Tokimeki Railway introduced the same trains in 2014-15, naming them ET 122 series.

Current Operations & Future Prospects

The KiHa 127 series are used on Kishin Line between Himeji and Kozuki. Some services between Himeji and Harima-Shingu are formed of three coaches.