Locale Japan Former operator(s) JNR | Status Operational Current operator(s) JR East | |
 | ||
First service 20 April 1963 (Express)14 March 2015 (Limited express) | ||
The Shirayuki (しらゆき) is a limited express service operated by East Japan Railway Company (JR East) between Niigata and Jōetsumyōkō in Japan since 14 March 2015. The name Shirayuki was also previously used for an express service operated by Japanese National Railways (JNR) from 1963 until 1982.
Contents
Service outline
The Shirayuki services operate between Niigata and Jōetsumyōkō via the Shinetsu Main Line and Echigo Tokimeki Railway Myōkō Haneuma Line, with some services extended to Arai. A total of five return workings operate daily.
Rolling stock
Services use a fleet of four four-car E653-1100 series EMUs converted from former Joban Line E653 series trainsets.
Formations
Trains are normally formed as four-car monoclass trainsets as shown below, with car 4 at the Niigata (northern) end. All cars are no-smoking.
History
The original Shirayuki train service was an express service which operated between Kanazawa and Aomori from 20 April 1963 until 15 November 1982 using KiHa 58 series diesel multiple unit (DMU) trains.