Introduced in 2011 as an AC/DC limited express EMU, the E657 Series remains a flagship train of the Joban Line (Joban Line: a major intercity railway corridor connecting Tokyo with northeastern Japan). For the 2023 Ibaraki Destination Campaign, it received a special “Fresh Hitachi”-inspired livery based on the classic E653 Series, drawing strong attention from railway fans.

◆ As the fourth release in KATO’s series, the blue K1 formation joins the expanding five-color collection and pairs perfectly with other JR East models operating in the Sendai area.

Composition of Trains

◆ Product Features

Details

• Revival livery inspired by the E653 Series “Fresh Hitachi” (Blue) and formation-specific emblem (Blue version: Shioyasaki Coast and lighthouse).
• Detailed AC/DC EMU roof equipment, including insulators, high-voltage gear around the pantograph, train radio and iMAX antennas.
• Correct gray underfloor and bogie finish.
• Green-tinted windows.
• Destination display stickers included.

Specifications

Couplers: body-mounted KATO close-coupler (w/ inter-car dampers).

Other:

• Slotless motor
• DCC-friendly design.

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