[1] The KiHa 201 trains are designed to work in multiple with 731 series electric multiple unit (EMU) sets with which it shares numerous features, including appearance, interior layout, bodyshell and control systems.

[2] To allow them to work alongside faster and more powerful EMUs, KiHa 201 units are uniquely fitted with pneumatic tilting bogies designed by Kawasaki Heavy Industries and used on KiHa 261 series express trains.

[5] For greater capacity and shorter loading times, features typical to trains in Hokkaido, such as entrance vestibules designed to keep passenger compartments warm, are for the first time replaced by individually-opening semi-automatic doors and infrared heating.

[citation needed] The first set was delivered from Fuji Heavy Industries to Naebo Depot in December 1996,[5] and the fleet of four sets entered revenue service from the start of 22 March 1997 timetable revision.

Multiple workings with 731 series EMUs are currently limited to one single trip a day.