The 383 series (383系) is a tilting DC electric multiple unit (EMU) train type operated by Central Japan Railway Company (JR Central) on the Chūō Main Line, Shinonoi Line and Shinetsu Main Line. They service the Shinano limited express services in Japan, as well as Home Liner. It has also won the 1996 Laurel Prize.

Design

The trains were built jointly by Hitachi, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, and Nippon Sharyo.

Operations

History

A pre-production 6-car set was completed in August 1994, with a further 70 cars (eight 6-car sets, three 4-car sets, and five 2-car sets) built by October 1996. The 383 series entered service from April 1995.

Future

The 383 series is planned to be replaced with new 385 series sets on Shinano limited express services from 2026.