Super Yakumo
One of the big goals of the Japan trip was to photograph the Hakubi Line between Yonago and Okayama. At this time the line was nearly a pure JNR time capsule with the limited stop trains operating with Clas 381 tilting trains from the 1970s and freights behind EF64s. The 381s were running out their last days before replacement, and to bid farewell JR West had painted several sets in retro liveries. The big prize was the fully JNR painted set 381-500. Here the classy looking crosses the Takahashi River at Bitchū-Kawamo on the way towards Yonago. Thankfully Japanese trains are extremely punctual so I didnt have to wait too long standing in the freezing river.
I have read recently that JR West has sadly sent all the remaining 381s to scrap in 2025. The Japanese love their trains, but unlike in Europe, when its done, its done.
Super Yakumo
One of the big goals of the Japan trip was to photograph the Hakubi Line between Yonago and Okayama. At this time the line was nearly a pure JNR time capsule with the limited stop trains operating with Clas 381 tilting trains from the 1970s and freights behind EF64s. The 381s were running out their last days before replacement, and to bid farewell JR West had painted several sets in retro liveries. The big prize was the fully JNR painted set 381-500. Here the classy looking crosses the Takahashi River at Bitchū-Kawamo on the way towards Yonago. Thankfully Japanese trains are extremely punctual so I didnt have to wait too long standing in the freezing river.
I have read recently that JR West has sadly sent all the remaining 381s to scrap in 2025. The Japanese love their trains, but unlike in Europe, when its done, its done.