SL Hitoyoshi

SL Hitoyoshi
SL Hitoyoshi when pulled by JGR Class 8620 between Sojo University Station and Nishisato Station with JNR Class DE10 diesel locomotive behind
Overview
Lead locomotive	JGR Class 8620 JNR Class DE10
Passenger cars used	JNR 50 series coaches
Track gauge	3 ft 6 in (1,067 mm)
Other information
Operator	JR Kyushu
In service	April 2009-March 2024

The SL Hitoyoshi is a locomotive-hauled Joyful Train operated by Kyushu Railway Company between April 2009 and March 2024.

Overview

The SL Hitoyoshi ran a return journey between Kumamoto and Hitoyoshi once a day on weekends and national holidays from March to November. The train was inaugurated to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the completion of the Hisatsu Line. A reserved seat must have been made prior to boarding. The train stopped at Shin-Yatsushiro, Yatsushiro, Sakamoto, Shiroishi, Isshōchi, and Watari.

Since the damage of the 2020 Kyushu floods to the Hisatsu Line, the SL Hitoyoshi temporarily ran between Kumamoto and Tosu Station.

Rolling Stock

The SL Hitoyoshi consists of an Class 8620 steam locomotive and three specially modified OHa 50 series (オハ50系) carriages. The interior design of the carriages was done by industrial designer Eiji Mitooka. On occasion the train was assisted or hauled by a Class DE10 or Class DD200 diesel locomotive.

References

wikipedia.org