[1] The trains were built jointly by Hitachi and Kawasaki Heavy Industries.

[4] 2-car set converted from former stored cars for use on Super Hakuchō services from December 2010[5] The 785 series trainsets do not include Green class (first class) accommodation, but car 4 is designated as a "u-Seat" car with improved seating for reserved seat passengers.

[1] The control equipment from the cabs of cars within sets was removed between 2007 and 2008.

[3] From 1 October 2007, they were reassigned to new Super Kamui limited express services between Sapporo and Asahikawa, and Airport rapid services between Sapporo and New Chitose Airport in conjunction with 789-1000 series EMUs.

[6] The spare 2-car set, NE 105, stored out of use since 2002 was modified in 2010 and repainted with green cab ends for use in conjunction with 789 series sets on Super Hakuchō services from the start of the revised timetable on 4 December 2010.