Thursday 10 May 2018

EMU Keisei 3600 Series: Standard Commuter Train

3658F of the EMU Keisei 3600 series arrives at Yachiyodai station

I assumed that I had already introduced all of the train models in the Tokyo metropolitan area in this blog, since I started it in 2011; but, there are still some left. Introduction of the trains in Tokyo is a never-ending story, isn't it? Today, I am going to show you one of those trains on the Keisei Line.

The EMU Keisei 3600 series is a standard commuter train launched in 1982. A total of 9 sets, 54 units were built by Tokyu Sharyo and Nippon Sharyo. Currently, 6 sets, 44 units (8-car x 5 sets and 4-car x 1 set) are still operated on the line. It originally had a field chopper electric control system; but one set was modified to VVVF (variable frequency drive) electric control system in 1999.

The design of the 3600 series is just plain. It is a typical commuter train in the 1970s and 1980s. For instance, it has stainless-steel bodies with corrugations. Its face is gable-shaped with large rounded frontal lights and tail lights. The gangway connection is recessed from the gable surface. They are indeed nostalgic for rail-fans, as 36 years have already passed since they debuted.

The 3600 series is directly operated onto the subway Toei-Asakusa line; however, it is impossible to be operated onto the Keikyu line because of its technical specifications. The scrapping of this model has been commenced. Please ride on and take photographs of the 3600 series before it is too late.

3658F of the EMU Keisei 3600 series, rapid service train, stands at Yachiyodai station

Official information about the trains on the Keisei line (in Japanese):