The 883 series was introduced in 1995 (Heisei 7) with the aim of speeding up services and improving passenger comfort on the Nippo Main Line. It was JR Kyushu’s first tilting train and the first tilting train in Japan to operate under AC power in regular service. Initially, five 7-car sets and three 5-car sets were manufactured. One notable feature is the variation in front panel designs depending on the year of production. The 5-car sets were given individual character by using different front colors—silver, yellow, and dark blue.
Starting in 2005 (Heisei 17), the trains underwent a refurbishment, and their exteriors were unified with a metallic blue livery. In 2008 (Heisei 20), the 5-car sets were extended to 7 cars, making all formations 7-car sets.
In 2025 (Reiwa 7), to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its debut, a commemorative wrapping was applied to the first set (AO-1), which is scheduled to operate with this special design for a limited time within the year.
- Based on the AO-7 set belonging to the ÅŒita Rolling Stock Center, modeled in its appearance from around 1997 to 2006.
- Recreates the distinctive front cover painted yellow, paired with a light blue and silver body.
- Equipped with working head and tail lights. Headlights are reproduced in a warm white (bulb color), and fog lights in yellow.
- Features KATO’s original tilting mechanism that replicates the inward tilt of the car body when passing through curves, just like the real train.
- Powered by the well-regarded GM-5 motor unit, ensuring stable running performance.
- Undercarriage and bogies are colored in bluish gray, with black couplers.
- Intermediate cars are connected using KATO’s close-coupling system with jumper cables.
- Includes destination display stickers.
- Compatible with interior lighting kit Kato 11-211 (11-212)
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