description Shinkansen Series 500 Overview
The Shinkansen Series 500 is a Japanese high-speed electric multiple unit (EMU) trainset introduced by West Japan Railway Company (JR West) in 1997. Operating on the San'yō Shinkansen line, it was the first train in the world to reach a regular commercial service speed of 300 km/h. The trainset is visually distinguished by its highly streamlined, elongated nose design, engineered to minimize aerodynamic noise and sonic boom effects when entering tunnels. Originally assigned to premier Nozomi services, the fleet was later reduced and operated on slower Kodama routes until final retirement in 2022.
help Shinkansen Series 500 FAQ
What speed record does the Shinkansen Series 500 hold?
Introduced in 1997, the Shinkansen Series 500 was the first train in the world to reach a regular commercial service speed of 300 km/h (186 mph). It achieved this incredible speed on the San'yō Shinkansen line.
Who operates the Shinkansen Series 500?
The Shinkansen Series 500 is operated by West Japan Railway Company, commonly known as JR West. They were specifically developed to drastically reduce travel times between Shin-Osaka and Hakata stations.
Are all Shinkansen Series 500 trains still in active service?
No, the original 16-car Series 500 trainsets were gradually retired from primary Nozomi service starting in the late 2000s. A few were shortened to 8-car formations and continue to operate on the slower Kodama services.
What makes the exterior design of the Series 500 unique?
The Series 500 features an incredibly striking, aerodynamic design with a long, pointed, and yellow-and-purple nose. The sleek, futuristic look was heavily influenced by the need to reduce sonic booms when passing through tunnels at extreme speeds.
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