The 20 series limited express sleeper passenger cars, a landmark in Japan’s railway history, debuted in October 1958 (Showa 33) for the “Asakaze” express during Japan’s period of rapid economic growth.
They introduced a revolutionary fixed formation system, fully equipped with heating and air conditioning, fixed windows, and air suspension bogies for improved ride comfort. The inclusion of a power supply car for onboard electricity was also groundbreaking. Connecting Tokyo and Hakata in just over 17 hours, the train was considered a major innovation at the time.
Its exterior featured rounded car ends and a gently curved body, harmonizing beautifully with the flowing lines of three cream-colored stripes on a blue base — enhancing its modern image.
The 20 series transformation of the “Asakaze” gained immense popularity and earned the nickname “Blue Train,” becoming the pioneer of a new era of sleeper expresses that included “Sakura,” “Hayabusa,” and “Mizuho.”
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