🌸 Basic Information
Line Name: Seibu Tamako Line
Operator: Seibu Railway Co., Ltd.
Section: Kokubunji Station – Seibu-Yuenchi Station (approx. 9.2 km)
Stations: 6 (Kokubunji / Hitotsubashi-Gakuen / Ome-Kaido / Hagiyama / Yasaka / Seibu-Yuenchi)
Connections:
– Kokubunji (JR Chuo Line)
– Hagiyama (Seibu Haijima Line)
– Seibu-Yuenchi (connection to Seibu Yamaguchi Line / “Leo Liner”)
Opened: 1928 (originally operated as the Tamalake Railway)
Feature: A suburban local line connecting academic districts, quiet neighborhoods, and leisure spots like Seibuen Amusement Park
📜 History & Background
The Seibu Tamako Line opened in 1928, originally as an access route to the scenic Tama Lake area for leisure and tourism.
Later acquired by Seibu Railway, the line became known as the “Gakuen-sen (Academic Line)” thanks to the number of schools along its route.
In addition to serving Seibuen Amusement Park, it functions as a commuter and student transport line.
After the 2021 renewal of Seibuen Park, the line has gained renewed attention as a convenient and peaceful residential corridor.
🚉 Major Stations
Kokubunji: A busy terminal with direct JR Chuo Line access and many shopping facilities.
Hitotsubashi-Gakuen: Student-friendly area, home to Hitotsubashi University’s Kodaira Campus.
Hagiyama: Connection to Seibu Haijima Line, known for its calm, family-oriented residential vibe.
Seibu-Yuenchi: Terminal station adjacent to Seibuen Amusement Park and surrounded by greenery.
🌟 Advantages
✅ 1. Perfect Blend of Nature and Academia
Running through Kodaira and Higashimurayama, the line passes tranquil residential neighborhoods and green parks.
Many universities, schools, and cultural facilities are located near stations, creating a calm yet vibrant academic atmosphere.
✅ 2. Flexible Access to Central Tokyo
Transfer at Kokubunji for the JR Chuo Line to Shinjuku or Tokyo.
At Hagiyama, connections to the Seibu Shinjuku and Haijima Lines make commuting convenient in multiple directions.
✅ 3. Compact & Easy-to-Live Area
Short distances between stations make it ideal for cycling or walking.
Local shopping streets and small family-run stores offer a nostalgic, community-based lifestyle.
⚠️ Disadvantages
❌ 1. No Direct Train to Central Tokyo
Transfers at Kokubunji are required for access to downtown areas, which can be slightly inconvenient during rush hours.
❌ 2. Limited Train Frequency Outside Peak Hours
Trains run every 15 minutes during the day, and service toward Seibu-Yuenchi is less frequent in some time slots.
❌ 3. Few Large Shopping Facilities
Most areas feature small supermarkets and local stores; for big malls, residents often go to Kokubunji or Tokorozawa.
🧺 Living Environment & Comfort
Transportation: ★★★☆☆ / Convenient transfers but no direct city service
Shopping: ★★★☆☆ / Local supermarkets and community stores available
Nature & Parks: ★★★★★ / Surrounded by Tama Lake, Musashino Forest, and Sayama Park
Education & Childcare: ★★★★☆ / Excellent access to universities and schools
Safety: ★★★★★ / Quiet, family-friendly neighborhoods with low crime rates
🏠 Real Estate Overview
💴 Rent Prices (2025 estimates)
Kokubunji: 1R–1K ¥75,000–90,000 / Family 2LDK+ ¥130,000–170,000 — high demand due to central access
Hitotsubashi-Gakuen: 1R–1K ¥60,000–75,000 / Family 2LDK+ ¥110,000–140,000 — many student-oriented units
Hagiyama: 1R–1K ¥60,000–70,000 / Family 2LDK+ ¥100,000–130,000 — calm residential environment
Seibu-Yuenchi: 1R–1K ¥50,000–60,000 / Family 2LDK+ ¥90,000–120,000 — peaceful, nature-rich, affordable area
🏘 Housing Trends
Mostly low-rise residential neighborhoods.
A balanced mix of single and family-type rentals.
Rising demand for renovated condos and houses rather than new constructions.
🎯 Recommended For
✅ Families prioritizing education and green surroundings
✅ Singles or couples seeking quiet, suburban homes within commuting distance
✅ People preferring walking or cycling lifestyles over long commutes
✅ Those who favor calm, relaxing neighborhoods over busy station-fronts
📌 Summary
The Seibu Tamako Line is a suburban local railway offering an ideal balance of accessibility and tranquility.
It connects central Tokyo conveniently while maintaining a relaxing, academic, and nature-filled atmosphere.
Whether for commuting, studying, raising children, or enjoying a peaceful lifestyle,
this line represents one of Tokyo’s best-kept secrets for comfortable suburban living. 🌿