To use this site, please disable the ad blocking feature and reload the page.
This website uses cookies to collect information about your visit for purposes such as showing you personalized ads and content, and analyzing our website traffic. By clicking “Accept all,” you will allow the use of these cookies.
Users accessing this site from EEA countries and UK are unable to view this site without your consent. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.
The 500-series Shinkansen, the first Japanese train to reach a maximum speed of 300 kph, will be retired most likely in 2027, West Japan Railway Co. (JR West) said Wednesday.
Nicknamed “Long nose” for its distinctive snout, the popular bullet train with a futuristic appearance debuted in 1997. The series will be retired primarily due to aging.
The 500 series is also the only Shinkansen train developed solely by JR West.
Nine trains from the series, each with 16 cars, were put into operation, running between Tokyo and Hakata stations as Nozomi trains on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen lines until 2010.
Currently, six 500-series trains, each with eight cars, are operated as Kodama trains on the Sanyo Shinkansen line.
