KATO’s 1/80 (HO) series offers model train enthusiasts a remarkable selection of finely detailed locomotives and cars, including the KIRO80 (1-608), KIHA81 (1-612), KIHA82 (1-607-1), and KIHA82-900 (1-613). These models are designed to replicate real-life trains with stunning accuracy, bringing authenticity to your railway setups. Whether you’re adding to a growing collection or just getting started, the KATO 1/80 series offers something special for every model train fan. With superb craftsmanship and attention to detail, these pieces help bring your railways to life like never before.
KiHa 81 – The Birth of Japan’s Diesel Express Trains
In 1960, the KiHa 81 debuted as the first model in the KiHa 80 series, marking a groundbreaking moment in Japan's train history. This model featured the distinctive bonnet shape, making it immediately recognizable. The KiHa 81 was a part of Japan’s early diesel-powered express train fleet, leading the charge in the “Hatsukari” express service and setting a standard for the country’s non-electrified lines. The KiHa 81 was designed to serve as a fast and reliable train for Japan's growing network, leading trains throughout the 1960s.
KiHa 82 – Expanding the Legacy
In 1968, the KiHa 82 was introduced, building on the success of the KiHa 81. This model aimed to expand the capacity and range of express trains, particularly for non-electrified lines. The KiHa 82 900 series was a modified version of the original KiHa 80, with enhanced features for better passenger service and efficiency. These modifications included the addition of air conditioning and a more versatile train configuration with through doors, allowing for easy connection between cars, and an updated window layout.
This evolution of the KiHa 82 was also influential in creating iconic long-distance services like the “Ohtsutsuki”, “Hokuto”, and “Matsukaze” trains. It was recognized as a significant improvement, offering both high-speed travel and comfort.
The KIRO 80 – The Passenger and Dining Car
The KIRO 80 model represents a passenger and dining car, making it integral to the experience of travelers aboard the KiHa 81 and KiHa 82 express trains. This car wasn't just another passenger car; it was designed to provide onboard dining services, offering passengers a luxurious way to enjoy their long-distance journeys. The KIRO 80 was equipped with comfortable dining facilities, ensuring a premium travel experience.
The KATO 1-608 KIRO 80 model captures this essence of luxury and efficiency, featuring detailed representations of the blue-tinted windows, accurate color schemes, and authentic train markers. The smooth and powerful running capabilities of the model, inherited from the KiHa 58, provide a smooth experience that mirrors the actual train's performance.
Main Features
KiHa 82 Series
- Faithfully reproduces the appearance of the mid-1960s peak era of diesel express trains.
- KiHa 82 comes with standard head/tail lights (with an off-switch). The headlights are equipped with incandescent bulbs, and the train marker lights use white LEDs to realistically reproduce the lights.
- The KiHa 80 powered car uses a well-established power unit from the HO gauge KiHa 58, ensuring smooth and powerful operation.
- The beautiful proportions of the KiHa 82 series, including the front design, are faithfully reproduced.
- The red (No. 2) and cream (No. 4) colors of the KiHa 82 diesel cars are beautifully recreated.
- Windows are tinted blue to imitate heat-absorbing glass.
- KiHa 82 is modeled after the later version, which had an added cooler since its manufacture.
- The engine color seat and the green car markings on the KiRo 80 are beautifully reproduced.
- DCC NMRA8 pin plug compatibility (only for motor control).
- Reproduces the real-life connector shape and standard KATO coupler for smooth curve passing and coupling functionality (PAT. pending).
- The body numbers and markings are finely detailed on a lettering sheet, allowing you to choose your preferred number and markings.
- Includes destination display decals.
- The KiHa 82 series 4-car set and KiHa 82 individual models come with interchangeable train markers (including “Oozora,” “Shiratori,” “Kamome,” “Matsukaze”).
KiHa 81
- The connection cover and the presence of the Jōban radio antenna on the roof can be selected to recreate the different appearances of KiHa 81 at various periods.
- The distinctive bonnet shape is faithfully reproduced.
- The front connection cover can be optionally attached or removed. The front coupling uses a dummy coupler.
- The Jōban radio antenna and its mount are separate parts, offering the option to choose different roof configurations of the KiHa 81 for various time periods.
- Reproduced with the tablet catcher attached.
- The bogies use the DT31 type.
- Includes headmarks for “Hatsukari,” “Tsubasa,” “Inaho,” “Hitachi,” “Kuroshio,” and “(Blank).”
KiHa 82 900
- Accurately reproduces the window and cooler configuration unique to the modified version.
- Reproduced with the tablet catcher attached.
- Includes headmarks for “Hokuto,” “Okhotsk,” and “(Blank).”
The Legacy of KiHa 81, KiHa 82, and KIRO 80
Together, the KIRO 80, KiHa 81, and KiHa 82 revolutionized long-distance train travel in Japan. They connected major cities to regional areas, creating a reliable and comfortable way for passengers to travel across the country. Today, these trains are still regarded as a monumental achievement in the history of Japan’s railway system.
