阪神71形 74号

Whispers of “Kingfish” echo here at the Hanshin 71gata 74. This preserved electric locomotive at Ashiya Park isn’t just a relic. It’s a symbol of Osaka’s rich transportation history. The Hanshin 71gata, nicknamed “Kingfish” for its unique front, was a marvel of its time. Debuting in 1937, these ten locomotives ruled the Hanshin Kokudo Line. Imagine the 74, almost 14.5 meters long, gliding through Osaka’s bustling streets. Its streamlined design, with a roof extending dramatically over its large windows, set it apart. The headlamps, nestled within the curved body, resembled the eyes of a fish, adding to its distinctive character. The Hanshin 71gata 74 was a technological powerhouse. Its four Mitsubishi MB-163MR motors, coupled with an advanced oil-pressure camshaft multi-stage controller, allowed for impressive speeds. This was unusual for the time, as most streetcars, even large ones, used simpler two-motor systems. The need for speed arose from the long distances between stops on the Kokudo Line, some exceeding a kilometer. This required locomotives to maintain high speeds, a feature later utilized on newer lines. But the Hanshin 71gata wasn’t just about speed. It also featured luxurious interiors. Passengers enjoyed long seats and chrome-plated pipe handrails. Even the small details, like the roof-mounted air intakes, added to its elegant design. Over the years, the Hanshin 71gata 74 underwent several modifications. In the late 1950s, some were adapted for use on newer lines, like the Watarigawa and Nishinomiya Kaigan lines. These modifications included adding left and right headlights, lowering the platform height, and even removing the roof-mounted ventilation system. Later, in the late 1960s, most underwent renovations. Roof-mounted headlamps and tail lights were removed, streamlining the silhouette further. Sadly, with the closure of the Kokudo Line in 1975, the reign of the Kingfish ended. Yet, here at Ashiya Park, number 74 stands proudly, a reminder of a bygone era of elegance and innovation in Osaka’s transport history.