385 series

The 385 series is a tilting electric multiple unit train type on order by Central Japan Railway Company.

Overview

Details of the 385 series were first announced by JR Central on 20 July 2023. The 385 series is intended to replace the 383 series fleet on Shinano limited express services. They will feature an improved pendular tilt system, which will allow for faster speeds on curves. A pre-production 8-car set is scheduled to be completed in 2026, with full production scheduled to commence in 2029.
On 22 December 2025, JR Central announced that Kawasaki Railcar Manufacturing and Nippon Sharyo would be involved in manufacturing the pre-production set. The first two pre-production cars, KuHa 3841 and MoHa 385301, were delivered from the Kawasaki Railcar Manufacturing plant in Hyōgo in 2026.

Interior

Green cars feature transverse seating in a 1+2 configuration. Ordinary class cars also feature transverse seating except in a 2+2 configuration. The interior design reflects the different facets and geological features in which the line passes through.