The 189 series was introduced in 1975 as a DC express train that could operate in cooperation with the EF63 series at Usui Pass. Since its introduction, it was mainly used as the "Asama" express train that ran between Ueno and Nagano, but when the Nagano Shinkansen opened on October 1, 1997, this train was discontinued and some of the cars were converted to the "Azusa" express train on the Chuo Main Line.

When converting, in addition to changing the paint, the KuHa 189-0 and 500 series were turned around, including relocating jumper plugs, in order to align the coupling positions of the upgraded cars with the 183 series of the "Azusa".

• High grade (HG) specifications
• Reproduces the 189 series of Nagano General Rolling Stock Depot in Azusa color
• Reproduces the appearance with the type and car number tags removed
• Kuha 189-0 and Kuha 189-500 are reproduced with the direction changed and the jumper plugs relocated
• The roof of Moha 188 is reproduced as the later model with the side of the running board blocked
• Salo 189-100 reproduces the FM antenna on the roof with a new production
• ATS on-board unit parts included, H-rubber is reproduced in black AND; Toilet tank is already installed
• Shoe rails, door rails, JR mark, and Green Car mark are printed
• The printed train mark "Azusa" is attached and "Kaiji" is included
• The car number, car number display, and non-smoking car display are selectable and a transfer sheet is included
• Uses a power source with a flywheel
• Uses a new current collecting system and black wheels
• Uses an M-13 motor
• The driver's cab side of the leading car is equipped with a dummy coupler with a coupler cover
• Each coupling side is equipped with a TN coupler (SP) with piping as standard

Vehicles:

• Kuha 189-500 (GU)
• Moha 189
• Moha 188 (late model, GU) (M)
• Saro 189-100 (GU)
• Moha 189
• Moha 188 (late model, GU)
• Kuha 189-0

Accessories:

• Runner parts: antenna, whistle
• Runner parts: ATS on-board unit
• Parts: train mark
• Parts: bogie snowplow
• Parts: jig
• Transfer sheet: car number, etc.