Toki (train)

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The Toki is a high-speed Shinkansen train service in Japan, run by JR East on the Joetsu Shinkansen line between Tokyo and Niigata. The name comes from the crested ibis, a symbol of Niigata.

History and service changes
- It began in 1962 as a limited-express train on the Joetsu Line, stopping at several stations between Ueno and Niigata.
- When the Joetsu Shinkansen opened in 1982, Toki became the all-stops Shinkansen service between Ōmiya/Ueno/Tokyo and Niigata.
- The name was dropped in 1997 and brought back in 2002 to replace the Asahi service.
- In 2013, 10-car E2 series sets were reintroduced on some Toki services at up to 240 km/h.
- The E4 bi-level trains were retired in 2021.
- In 2023, the line speed increased to 275 km/h, and E2 trains were removed from Toki.
- A special Toki service, Toki 395, ran in 2012 for the Joetsu Shinkansen’s 30th anniversary.

What you ride
- Rolling stock: E7 series trains.
- Seating: Standard, Green, and Gran Class.
- Catering: trolley service onboard.

Route and specs
- Route: Tokyo to Niigata on the Joetsu Shinkansen.
- Track gauge: 1,435 mm.
- Electrification: 25 kV AC, overhead.
- Maximum speed: 275 km/h (170 mph).