
JR West to End Hello Kitty Shinkansen in Spring 2026; Hello Kitty Haruka by Summer 2027
Hitachinaka Seaside Railway will receive three Kiha 100 series diesel cars from JR East.
The vehicles Kiha 100-39 will replace the existing Miki 300-103, and Kiha 100-41 will replace the Kiha 205. Kiha 100-40 will start operating as a sightseeing train.
The design of the sightseeing train will be announced at a later date. Operations will start after the required maintenance has been completed following the transfer.