🌸 Basic Information / Overview
Line Name: Seibu Toshima Line (西武豊島線)
Operator: Seibu Railway Co., Ltd.
Section: Nerima – Toshimaen / approx. 1.0km
Stations: 2 (Nerima・Toshimaen)
Opened: 1927 (originally Nakamarubashi – Toshimaen, later shortened to Nerima)
Connections: Nerima Station – Seibu Ikebukuro Line / Seibu Yurakucho Line / Toei Oedo Line
Feature: A short branch line once serving “Toshimaen” amusement park, now connecting to the Harry Potter Studio Tour Tokyo.
📜 History & Background
1927: Opened between Nakamarubashi and Toshimaen (later Nerima).
Originally built as an access line to the popular “Toshimaen” amusement park.
2020: Toshimaen closed, and the site was redeveloped as the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter.
Despite its short length, the line continues to serve local residents and tourists alike.
All trains run through to the Seibu Ikebukuro Line, offering direct service from Toshimaen to Ikebukuro and Shibuya without transfers.
🚉 Station Guide & Area Highlights
🚉 Nerima Station
Transfer available to the Toei Oedo Line.
The station area has undergone major redevelopment, offering modern shopping, administrative, and educational facilities.
Excellent access to Ikebukuro and Shinjuku.
🚉 Toshimaen Station
The nearest station to the Harry Potter Studio Tour Tokyo, attracting renewed attention.
A calm residential neighborhood surrounded by greenery.
Within walking distance: a large park, swimming pool, and cultural centers.
🌟 Advantages / Merits
✅ 1. Direct Access to Central Tokyo
Through service via Seibu Ikebukuro Line allows direct trains to Ikebukuro and Shibuya from Toshimaen.
✅ 2. Excellent for Sightseeing
The line serves as the main access to the Harry Potter Studio Tour Tokyo, making it popular on weekends and holidays.
✅ 3. Quiet & Comfortable Living Environment
Toshimaen area offers low-rise apartments, houses, and parks – ideal for families and seniors seeking peaceful surroundings.
✅ 4. Less Crowded than Major Lines
Though train frequency is modest, the Seibu Toshima Line rarely experiences heavy congestion.
⚠️ Disadvantages / Points to Note
❌ 1. Limited Train Frequency
Due to the short route, trains run about every 10–15 minutes during the day.
During rush hours, frequency increases but waits can still be longer than average.
❌ 2. Low Recognition as an Independent Line
Many riders consider it part of the Seibu Ikebukuro Line, so its individual identity is limited.
❌ 3. Few Real Estate Options
With only two stations, housing choices are centered around station areas.
🧺 Livability / Convenience
Transportation: ★★★★☆ / Excellent access to central Tokyo via Nerima
Shopping: ★★★★☆ / Many supermarkets and drugstores near Nerima Station
Safety: ★★★★★ / Quiet and safe residential areas around Toshimaen
Childcare: ★★★★☆ / Parks, schools, and nursery facilities nearby
Leisure: ★★★★☆ / Harry Potter Studio, cinemas, and parks available
🏠 Real Estate Perspective
💴 Average Rent (as of 2025)
Nerima:
1R・1K ¥75,000–¥90,000 / 2LDK+ ¥140,000–¥180,000
→ Highly convenient terminal area with great shopping options.
Toshimaen:
1R・1K ¥65,000–¥80,000 / 2LDK+ ¥110,000–¥140,000
→ Quiet residential area, more affordable rent.
🏘 Housing Trends
Toshimaen: Dominated by detached houses and low-rise apartments – calmer than Nerima.
Nerima: Ongoing redevelopment has introduced high-rise towers and modern commercial facilities.
🎯 Who Is the Seibu Toshima Line For?
✅ People working in the city who prefer peaceful neighborhoods
✅ Families with small children who value parks and daycare access
✅ Those who enjoy entertainment and weekend outings
✅ Singles and couples seeking a balanced, suburban lifestyle near Tokyo
📌 Summary
The Seibu Toshima Line may only be 1km long with two stations, but it offers:
・Direct access to central Tokyo
・A calm and green residential environment
・Easy connection to major attractions like the Harry Potter Studio Tour
・Local convenience and family-friendly charm
It’s truly a hidden gem line that blends convenience and tranquility in western Tokyo. 🌿🚋