Dear HO Scale Customers;

Kato (Japan) is excited to announce the May 2025 Releases

H5 Series Shinkansen "Hayabusa" Sets

● Item Introduction

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.

◆ The H5 Series began operating on March 26, 2016 and debuted alongside the opening of the line between Shin-Aomori and Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto. Like the E5 Series, it currently operates on services such as the “Hayabusa,” which connects Tokyo to Shinhakodate-Hokuto. In addition to the simple 4-car Basic set, the 2-car and 4-car Add-on sets allow you to easily customize the lengths and create a variety of formations - from shorter consists to a full 10-car train!

◆ Product Features

① Accurately reproduces the unique lavender-purple stripe and emblem. The exterior diaphragm above the coupling sections are also faithfully recreated in black.

③ Recreates the earlier configuration before the windows were blocked off to install luggage storage. Includes optional stickers to replicate the blocked windows on cars 1 through 8, allowing you to customize the appearance to your preference.

Couplers:

• Replicates the tilting mechanism and front-end coupling system (H514-1).

Details:

• The shade of white (which differs slightly from E5) used on the underside of the train body has been realistically replicated.
• Emblems on cars 1, 3, 5, 7, and 10. Wheelchair symbols are also printed on cars 5 and 9 for added detail.
• The side destination signs are included as separate parts, with “Hayabusa 39 Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto” pre-printed.
• Includes blank replacement parts and destination display stickers.

Other:

• Lights: head/tail-lights lit (white LEDs). Off-switch in 10th car (H514-1)
• Coreless motor
• Cars 3 and 7 are motorized.
• Minimum curve radius: R370mm

To avoid potential contact between cars on adjacent tracks, running on single-track layouts when operating on tight curves (R550/490 or smaller) is recommended.

Please note: As this product reuses the E5 Series body, some details may differ from the actual H5 train.

Anticipated Delivery Date: October 2025

Looking for more Kato (Japan) Passenger Cars? Click here!

Train Drivers and Conductors Wearing Dark Blue Suits

● Item Introduction

Realistically Crafted Train Driver and Conductor Poses Using Full-Color 3D Printing.

An assortment of four stylish, white-gloved drivers and conductors on duty . Recreated using full-color 3D printing, these figures can be easily placed to enhance the realism of your running trains and bring your sets to life!

Based on real crew members, this set includes four white-gloved figures - two drivers and two conductors - each with their own unique pose.

◆ These crew members can be used for locomotives, electric trains, diesel trains, and passenger cars. Whilst they are a great option for your dioramas and layouts, you can also use them to add a storytelling element for your vehicle displays!

◆ Product Features

① Fully-finished and pre-painted with a full-color 3D printer.

② Accurately replicate traditional uniforms and can be used for every era from Japanese National Railways (JNR) to the present.

③ Features two poses each for the driver and the conductor, who primarily work inside the train.

Details:

Driver: Two poses usable with any vehicle type, depicting the driver in action. The left hand grips the master controller while the right hand points to check signals, instruments, or switches. The white gloves visible in the enclosed driver's cab create a striking impression. The attire consists of a single suit.

Conductor: Two standing poses adaptable to various situations regardless of vehicle type. Ideal for scenarios such as checking the rear or monitoring the cabin, making announcements, conducting ticket inspections, checking the schedule, handing out gifts to young passengers, as well as scenes of exiting the crew room. The suits come in both double and single styles, with double suits typically worn by conductors of express trains or head conductors.

Anticipated Delivery Date: September 2025

Looking for more Kato Figures? Click here!

Order Due Date: May 22, 2025