Kitami (train)
The Kitami (きたみ) is a limited rapid (特別快速, tokubetsu kaisoku) train service operated by Hokkaido Railway Company (JR Hokkaido) in Hokkaido, Japan, since 1988. It runs from Asahikawa to Kitami on the Sekihoku Main Line.[1]
Two KiHa 54 diesel cars on a Kitami service, July 2009 | |
Overview | |
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Service type | Limited rapid |
Status | Operational |
First service | 1988 |
Current operator(s) | JR Hokkaido |
Route | |
Start | Asahikawa |
Stops | 14 |
End | Kitami |
Distance travelled | 114.8 mi (184.7 km) |
Average journey time | 3 hours 20 minutes approx |
Service frequency | 1 return working daily |
Line(s) used | Sekihoku Main Line |
On-board services | |
Class(es) | Standard only |
Catering facilities | None |
Other facilities | Toilet |
Technical | |
Rolling stock | KiHa 54 DMUs KiHa 150 DMUs |
Electrification | Diesel |
Operating speed | 68 mph (110 km/h) (Asahikawa - Shin-Asahikawa) 60 mph (95 km/h) (Shin-Asahikawa - Kitami) |
Service pattern and station stops
There is one train per day in each direction, with the journey taking approximately 3 hours 20 minutes from Asahikawa to Kitami.[1]
Trains stop at the following stations.[1]
Rolling stock
Services are formed of one or two single-car KiHa 54 diesel cars based at Asahikawa Depot.[2] Very occasionally, KiHa 150 diesel trains may be used.
History
The Kitami service was first introduced from 19 March 1988 as a seasonal "limited rapid" train service. From 3 November 1988, it became a regular daily service.
From 13 March 2004, the train became entirely no-smoking.
References
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Kitami. |
- JR Timetable, February 2011 issue, p.721-722
- JR気動車客車編成表 '04年版 [JR DMU & Coaching Stock Formations - 2004]. Japan: JRR. 1 July 2004. p. 43. ISBN 4-88283-125-2.