Kato New Poster

The H5 Series debuted in 2016 as the first Shinkansen operated by JR Hokkaido is now available in HO gauge for the first time! While the overall design and color scheme are similar to the JR East’s E5 Series on which it is based on, parts of the interior and exterior have been modified. For example, the H5 Series has a lavender-colored (“Saika purple”) stripe, and features a symbolic emblem inspired by Hokkaido and the Gyrfalcon.

We are proud to present a new addition to Kato's 583 Series lineup!
Introduced in 1968, the 583 Series is a dual-voltage electric express train designed for both sleeper and standard seating use. Following the transition to JR, the 583 Series operated by JR East gradually retired from regular service in the 2000s, with only a few units remaining. These were primarily used as special or charter trains, and could still be seen operating in Tokyo and the Kansai area. In its later years, the train was fitted with a radio antenna on the lead car, and visible modifications - such as the gray-painted bogies and underfloor equipment - were also made. During this period, it mainly operated on “Wakuwaku Dream” services, which connected areas like Akita and Aomori to Maihama in the Chiba Prefecture.

The E231 Series operating on the Joban Line was introduced in 2002 to replace the 103 Series. Seen in both 10-car and 5-car formations, the E231 Series runs in a maximum 15-car formation as an electric commuter train. In addition to its main turquoise line color, an olive-green stripe was added to help prevent passengers from confusing it with trains on the local (slow) line. Alongside the E531 series, which is used for medium-distance services, it operates on the Joban Rapid Line between Ueno and Toride, as well as the Narita Line between Abiko and Narita. Since the opening of the Ueno-Tokyo Line in 2015 (Heisei 27), its area of operation has expanded further, and it now runs through to Shinagawa.