The 221 series (221系) is a suburban electric multiple unit (EMU) train type operated by West Japan Railway Company (JR-West) in the Kansai Region of Japan since March 1989.

Operations

Formations

, the fleet consisted of 474 vehicles, formed as 2-, 4-, 6-, and 8-car sets, based at Kyoto, Nara, and Aboshi depots.

Aboshi Depot

8-car sets (A prefix)

6-car sets (B prefix)

4-car sets (C prefix)

Nara Depot

8-car sets (NB prefix)

6-car sets (NC prefix)

4-car sets (NA prefix)

2-car sets

Kyoto Depot

4-car sets (K prefix)

The KuMoHa 221 cars in some formations are equipped with a second de-icing pantograph.

Interior

Seating is arranged as 2+2 abreast transverse flip-over seats.

History

The first 221 series trains were introduced from the start of the revised timetable in March 1989. The 221 series received the Laurel Prize in 1990.

Refurbishment

From December 2012, a programme of refurbishment started, which will ultimately cover the entire fleet of 474 vehicles. Interior improvements include new universal access toilets, provision of wheelchair spaces, and flip-up seating next to the doorways. The first refurbished set, 4-car set K12, was returned to revenue service on 11 January 2013.