Tobu Tojo Line's new 90000 Series wins Good Design Best 100 Award 2026

Tokyo, October 15, 2026 – Tobu Railway Co., Ltd. ("Tobu Railway") and Hitachi, Ltd., which was responsible for the body design, exterior styling development, and manufacturing of the Tobu Tojo Line's new 90000 Series commuter train, today announced that the 90000 Series has jointly received the Good Design Best 100 Award 2026, organized by the Japan Institute of Design Promotion (JDP).

The train has also been selected for the "My Favorite Design 2026: Good Design Award Judge’s Selection", a special recognition chosen by Good Design Award judges.

Tobu Railway began commercial operation of the 90000 Series on the Tobu Tojo Line on September 26, 2026.

Designed under the concept of "A ferryboat that connects the region, people, and the future: Watashi-bune", the 90000 Series draws inspiration from the historical river transport culture that once supported the movement of people and goods along the Arakawa and Shingashi Rivers in the Tobu Tojo Line area. The concept reflects the Tobu Group's vision of creating "a people-friendly society where communities and individuals continue to thrive together."

The train was highly praised for its distinctive design, inspired by the traditional Takase-bune riverboat. Its innovative exterior styling and calm interior environment, featuring materials, colors and textures reminiscent of wood, rivers and water, successfully incorporates regional history and culture into a modern commuter train. The judges recognized the project for demonstrating new possibilities in public transport design, leading to its selection in both programs.

Further details are included in the Appendix.