🌸 Basic Information
Line name: Seibu Kokubunji Line
Operator: Seibu Railway Co., Ltd.
Route length: Approx. 7.8 km
Stations: 5 (Kokubunji / Koigakubo / Takanodai / Ogawa / Higashimurayama)
Opened: 1894 (Kokubunji – Kumegawa section)
Connections:
Kokubunji: JR Chuo Line
Ogawa: Seibu Haijima Line
Higashimurayama: Seibu Shinjuku Line, Seibu-en Line
Feature: A short but highly practical suburban line connecting central Tokyo (via Chuo Line) to calm residential areas
📜 History & Background
Opened in 1894, the Seibu Kokubunji Line is one of Seibu Railway’s oldest routes.
Originally used for transporting gravel and farm goods, it evolved into a commuter line as residential development expanded along the route.
Today, it serves as a local connector between Kokubunji and Higashimurayama, used daily by local residents and students.
🗺 Line Features & Role
Short but convenient – connects Chuo, Haijima, and Shinjuku Lines
Easy transfer access – one transfer gets you to Shinjuku, Tokyo, Haijima, or Tokorozawa
Calm residential environment – ideal for both single tenants and families
🌟 Advantages (Merits)
✅ 1. Excellent Connection to the JR Chuo Line
At Kokubunji Station, you can transfer directly to the JR Chuo Line for quick access to Shinjuku and central Tokyo.
Even though the line itself is small, Kokubunji serves as a major hub, making city commutes very convenient.
✅ 2. Great Balance of Nature and Residential Calm
Around Takanodai Station, you’ll find Tamagawa Josui, Kodaira Cemetery, and Nobidome Canal, all surrounded by greenery.
Koigakubo and Ogawa areas are quiet and family-friendly, with good neighborhood safety.
✅ 3. Multiple Transfer Options
At Ogawa, you can transfer to the Haijima Line, and at Higashimurayama, to the Seibu Shinjuku and Seibu-en Lines — giving you flexibility in commuting routes.
⚠️ Disadvantages (Demerits)
❌ 1. No Direct Trains to Major Hubs
Transfers are required to reach key terminals like Shinjuku or Ikebukuro.
❌ 2. Limited Train Frequency
Outside rush hours, trains run every 10–15 minutes, which can feel infrequent if you just miss one.
❌ 3. Modest Commercial Activity
Except for Kokubunji, most stations have few large shopping facilities, focusing on local supermarkets and quiet streets — pleasant for residents, but less lively.
🧺 Living Environment & Convenience
Transportation: ★★★★☆ – Good access via multiple lines (transfer required)
Nature & Environment: ★★★★★ – Green corridors along Tamagawa Josui
Shopping: ★★★☆☆ – Kokubunji is convenient; other stations focus on daily-use stores
Education & Family Life: ★★★★☆ – Many schools and childcare facilities
Safety: ★★★★★ – Quiet, safe neighborhoods throughout the line
🏠 Real Estate Overview
💴 Average Rent (2025 estimates)
Station1R–1KFamily (2LDK+)Notes
Kokubunji:¥75,000–90,000/¥130,000–170,000/Popular hub w/ Chuo Line access; area under redevelopment
Koigakubo:¥60,000–70,000/¥100,000–120,000/Quiet and affordable; hidden gem area
Takanodai:¥60,000–70,000/¥90,000–110,000/Green and calm; suitable for students & families
Ogawa:¥65,000–80,000/¥110,000–130,000/Convenient w/ Haijima Line connection
Higashimurayama:¥65,000–80,000/¥110,000–140,000/Shinjuku Line access; easy reach to city center
🏘 Housing Trends
Low-rise apartments and houses dominate the area, ideal for families.
Koigakubo and Takanodai attract those seeking quiet, suburban comfort.
Around Kokubunji Station, ongoing redevelopment is driving demand for new condominiums and resale properties.
🎯 Who This Area Is Best For
✅ Those who want a quiet residential neighborhood but still need Chuo Line access to central Tokyo
✅ Families who prioritize safety, education, and green surroundings
✅ People who prefer relaxed suburban living over big-city bustle
✅ Renters or buyers looking for spacious, affordable housing without being far from the city
📌 Summary
The Seibu Kokubunji Line connects Kokubunji and Higashimurayama, combining the convenience of multiple transfers with the calm charm of suburban life.
Each station has its own personality — redeveloped Kokubunji, green Takanodai, quiet Koigakubo — allowing residents to choose based on lifestyle.
Though short and transfer-based, it remains a well-balanced “hidden gem” line for those who value both convenience and comfort. 🌿