Above: The Izukyu 2100 series R-4 “The Black Ship Train” or “Kurofune”, in a rare public appearance at Tokyo Station in 2015.

The Izukyu 2100 series, also known as the “Resort 21” resort liners, were purpose built to reinvigorate tourism in Shizuoka. All 2100 series sets run on the Izu Kyoku Line. Each train features a different theme, some which feature elaborate interiors.

The side of The Black Ship Train which features a porthole painted onto the window as part of the Western sailing ship motif.

The Black Ship Train was first introduced in 2004, on the 150th anniversary of the opening of Shimoda port in Shimoda City, Shizuoka. The train was themed around the Japanese perception of Western sailing ships of that time. The first 2100 series to be themed as The Black Ship Train was the R-1. In 2006, R-1 was retired from service and R-4 was rethemed The Black Ship Train as its successor. R-4 is in active service to this day.