The KiHa 189 series (キハ189系) is a diesel multiple unit (DMU) train type operated by West Japan Railway Company (JR-West) on Hamakaze limited express services between Osaka and Tottori since November 2010 and Biwako Express services between Osaka and Maibara since March 2014.

Operations

Formation

Trains are formed as 3-car sets, as shown below.

Interior

The trains are all standard-class, with a total seating capacity of 156 passengers per 3-car set. Seating is in standard 2+2 abreast configuration with a seat pitch of 970 mm, an increase of 60 mm compared with the earlier KiHa 181 series trains.

History

The first three-car set was delivered from Niigata Transys to Fukui Depot on 19 March 2010, with test running commencing on 23 March. The trains entered revenue service from 7 November 2010.

Hana Akari

In October 2022, JR-West announced plans to remodel a KiHa 189 series set into a sightseeing train. The renovated train, designed by Yasuyuki Kawanishi, is scheduled to commence operation in late 2024. In June 2024, set H5 was converted to become the KiHa 189-7000 series sightseeing train branded "Hana Akari" (はなあかり). The Hana Akari trainset is scheduled to enter revenue service on 5 October 2024.