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JR Kyushu KiHa 183 Series / JR九州キハ183系

The KiHa 183 Series is a limited express type DMU operated by JR Kyushu since 1988.

Manufactured as a special tourist train for the Nagasaki Holland Village, this type was based on the mass produced JNR KiHa 183 series introduced in Hokkaido. It was designed to be capable of operating anywhere within JR Kyushu's network, and can be coupled to the 485 series EMUs when operating on electrified lines. The body structure had been significantly altered from the JNR design and bares essentially no resemblance. Both leading cars have the drivers cab on the upper deck, and a large observation room on the lower deck. The driving system is identical to the KiHa 183 series in Hokkaido. Only one set was manufactured, originally as a 3 cars but an extra car was added one year after entry into service. It operated as from Mojiko to Holland Village until 1992, when the destination was changed to Holland Village's successor Huis Ten Bosch in Sasebo city. It was converted to use on the Kyudai Main Line tourist train as Yufuin No Mori II later the same year, but subsequently went through several additional modifications in relatively quick succession. The engines and drive system was updated when the vehicle returned to the Kyudai Main Line in 2004 as Yufu DX. In 2011, the train was converted again to serve as Asoboy! operating on the Hohi Main Line. The carriages were repainted black and white and the interior remodelled. The second car in the Kumamoto direction now has twin "parent-child seats" with illustrations of the dog mascot "Kuro-chan". There are also box seats and free lounge space spread across the formation. It also features a small picture book collection and play area for younger children. There is little information on the type's future prospects, the single set in existence has passed 35 years of age and could be retired at any moment.

Basic Information:

Max Speed: 120km/h
Acceleration: 0.45m/s/s
Engine Output: 450PS x 1 per car
In Service: 1988-

The following formations are included:

KiHa 183 Series "Asoboy!" (4 Car)

Max Pax: 136
-can be coupled up to 3 sets, although please note there is only one set in existence IRL.