The 151 Series Lmt.Express "KODAMA"

The whole of the main-Tokaido-line was made electric in the autumn of 1956. For this reason, the limited express of a new model train which would take 8 hours and 30 minutes to travel between Tokyo Station and Osaka-Station was planned. This new train was an electric Multiple-Unit of the 151 historically famous series. In 1957, JNR produced an electric Multiple-Unit as the first new model. This was the electric Multiple-Unit for limited expresses which were developed based on the design of the 101 series trains. The 151 series were called KODAMA from the name of the first train used in November, 1958.
KODAMA means 'an echo' in English. The name of this is used on the Tokaido Shinkansen even now. The 151 series are the vehicles which symbolize not only the main Tokaido line before Tokaido Shinkansen started business but the golden age of JNR. The impression of the body of this series was the form of its head. This train was driven at 110 km/h. Moreover, the 151 series had new features which included a first-class car and a dining car. The first-class cars were beautiful cars which also ensured a great view. The dining cars were the first ones created as electric Multiple-Units in Japan.
These 151 series became the foundation of the present electric Multiple-Units of the limited express in Japan. In this way, the railroad of Japan became a time of the train. It meant a decline of the engine and the coach.