On March 3, 2025, Hanshin Electric Railway announced plans to gradually change the design of its 8000 series express train cars to resemble the classic 'Akadōsha' style, reminiscent of the design seen before 2015. This decision aligns with customer requests for the return of the beloved 'Akadōsha' design, celebrated as the "face of Hanshin Train" and is part of measures commemorated for the company's upcoming 120th anniversary on April 12, 2025.
The 8000 series first hit the tracks back in 1984, sporting the iconic two-tone coloration of vermilion and cream, also known by its nickname 'Akadōsha'. This designation was inspired by the character Akadō Suzu no Suke, who was popular at the time. Since then, all express trains of Hanshin Electric Railway adopted this appealing color scheme.
Over the years, from 2001 to 2015, the 8000 series underwent renovation work, leading to aesthetic changes meant to align with the then-modern 9300 series models. Following these updates, the classic 'Akadōsha' design gradually faded from service, with the series experiencing significant losses following the Great Hanshin Earthquake of 1995, where some trains were decommissioned.
The 'Akadōsha' style saw its final demise when the last of the special models, the 7990 and 7890 series, was retired from the Mukogawa Line operations by June 2020. Since then, there has been soaring demand from patrons and railway enthusiasts to revive this cherished visual identity.
Responding to these calls, Hanshin Electric deliberated internally about ways to enact the much-anticipated revival. The company confirmed on March 3, 2025, the initiation of design changes to its 8000 series trains as part of the 120th anniversary celebrations. The first of these redesigned train sets is set to roll out around late May 2025, starting with the 8215 set.
From 2025 onwards, the company plans to take approximately three to four years to finish the redesign across all 19 units of the 8000 series. This timeline will see the company gradually reintroducing the nostalgic colors and designs back onto the railway.
Kiriko Yusuke, the company's president, expressed enthusiasm about the project, addressing attendees during the announcement, "We are excited to bring back the design recognized by so many commuters. The Akadōsha characterise our identity and represent over five decades of service to the community. This redesign reflects our commitment to honoring the loyalty of our passengers who have requested its return for so long."
This return to the roots of the Hanshin Electric Railway will not only be inclusive of aesthetic changes but will symbolize the importance of history and tradition within their service. The 'Akadōsha' train design embodies memories cherished by many, contributing to the brand's reputation.
Now, as the Hanshin Electric Railway embarks on this transformational project, it aims to blend nostalgia with modern services, ensuring their trains are not just vessels of transportation but symbols of community pride. Through these efforts, the railway intends to reaffirm its dedication to its past and future, promising continued value to its patrons.
With the introduction of the new designs, the Hanshin Electric Railway is participating not just in aesthetic revivals, but is also creating another narrative for enthusiasts and daily commuters alike. This merging of tradition with contemporary railway technology is what will bring forward new traveling experiences for passengers.