The , branded , is a limited express sightseeing electric multiple unit (EMU) train type operated by the private railway operator Kintetsu Railway in Japan since 2022. The set was converted from 12200 series set NS56.
Operations The 19200 series set is normally used from Friday to Wednesday each week and on certain Thursdays. One return service between and via and two return services between Kintetsu Nara and Kyōto operate each day. On 12 October 2022, Kintetsu Railway announced that a third return service between Kintetsu Nara and Kyōto would be added for each operating day from the start of the revised timetable on 17 December of that year.
Design During the conversion period, the windows at the seating areas of car 2 were redesigned to be 1.2 metres tall and 2 metres long, and the passenger doors of car 3 were replaced with sliding doors. The set received a metallic purple livery with gold lining and side decorations inspired by the Shōsōin treasures.
Formation The set is formed as shown below.
Car No. 4 3 2 1 Designation Mc T M Tc Numbering 19201 19351 19251 19301 Original numbering 12256 12156 12056 12356 Seating capacity 28 20 12 24 Facilities Library Toilets, wheelchair space Sales counter Western-style toilet
Interior Cars 1, 3 and 4 have a 1+1 seating layout with the seats on one side arranged diagonally towards the windows and the seats on the other side arranged in a transverse layout. Car 2 has semi-private compartments with adjustable seats that can accommodate groups of three or four passengers each.
History Details of the converted limited express sightseeing train type were first officially announced in October 2021. The total cost of the refurbishment was approximately 330 million yen.
The 19200 series set entered service on 29 April 2022 with a departure ceremony at Ōsaka Namba Station and another ceremony at Kintetsu Nara Station.
References
External links Official website