🌸 Basic Information / Overview
Line Name: Keio Line (京王線)
Operator: Keio Corporation
Route Length: Approx. 37.9 km
Stations: 32 (Shinjuku – Keio Hachioji)
Connecting Lines: Toei Shinjuku Line (through service), Inokashira Line, Keio New Line, JR Chuo Line, Odakyu Line, etc.
Opening Year: 1913 (originally operated as “Keio Electric Railway”)
📜 History & Background
・The line opened in 1913 between Shinjuku and Chofu, initially run by Keio Electric Tramway.
・During the 1960s, suburban development in the Tama area transformed the line into a major commuter corridor.
・In 1978, direct through-service to the Toei Shinjuku Line began, improving city access dramatically.
・Today, the Keio Line connects Shinjuku and Keio Hachioji as one of western Tokyo’s most essential commuter routes.
🌟 Merits / Advantages
✅ 1. Excellent direct access to Shinjuku
The Keio Line’s terminal is Shinjuku Station, with through-service to the Toei Shinjuku Line—offering outstanding city connectivity.
✅ 2. Diverse, livable neighborhoods
Stations like Sasazuka, Meidaimae, Chofu, Fuchu, and Seiseki-Sakuragaoka each offer a unique blend of urban, suburban, and natural lifestyles.
✅ 3. Flexible service types
With Express, Semi-Express, and Limited Express options, commuters can choose speed and convenience to match their lifestyle.
✅ 4. Great balance between rent and convenience
Compared with the Chuo Line, Keio Line areas tend to offer larger apartments at more affordable prices.
⚠️ Demerits / Drawbacks
❌ 1. Crowded during rush hours
Especially between Sasazuka and Shinjuku, where Toei Shinjuku Line through trains also operate.
❌ 2. Accessibility gap between local and express stations
Stations where only local trains stop may feel less convenient compared to express hubs like Chofu or Fuchu.
❌ 3. Early last train schedule
Late-night train frequency is limited, making taxi use necessary after midnight.
🧺 Livability (Comfort / Convenience)
Category: Rating: Comment
Transportation Access: ★★★★★: Direct to Shinjuku / Through service to Toei Shinjuku Line for central Tokyo access
Commercial Facilities: ★★★★☆: Many redeveloped areas such as Sasazuka, Chofu, and Fuchu
Education Environment: ★★★★☆: Multiple universities and high schools along the line / family-friendly academic areas
Nature & Environment: ★★★★☆: Lush surroundings near Tama River & Sakuragaoka Park
Safety: ★★★★☆: Calm, residential atmosphere with strong community feel
🏠 Real Estate Perspective
💴 Average Rent Prices (as of 2025)
Station: 1R・1K / Family Type (2LDK〜): Comment
Sasazuka: ￥95,000–￥120,000 / ￥200,000–￥270,000: Close to Shinjuku / Urban & convenient living
Meidaimae: ￥90,000–￥115,000 / ￥180,000–￥250,000: Popular among students & young professionals
Chofu: ￥85,000–￥105,000 / ￥160,000–￥220,000: Redeveloped & highly convenient suburban city
Fuchu: ￥80,000–￥100,000 / ￥150,000–￥210,000: Well-balanced mix of shopping & housing
Keio Hachioji: ￥70,000–￥90,000 / ￥130,000–￥190,000: Affordable suburban area with easy access
🏘 Housing Trends
・Shinjuku–Sasazuka–Meidaimae: Popular among singles & young adults for central access.
・Chofu–Fuchu: Family-oriented neighborhoods with spacious apartments.
・Seiseki-Sakuragaoka–Keio Hachioji: Quiet suburban towns surrounded by nature.
🎯 Recommended For
✅ Those seeking affordable rent with direct Shinjuku access
✅ Families who value calm, residential environments for raising children
✅ People wanting both shopping convenience and nearby greenery
✅ Commuters who prioritize balance between time and comfort
📌 Summary
The Keio Line perfectly balances convenience, comfort, and cost-efficiency.
It offers direct city access while maintaining a relaxed suburban atmosphere across western Tokyo.
From redeveloped hubs like Chofu and Fuchu to quiet green towns like Seiseki-Sakuragaoka, the Keio Line offers something for everyone.
A line that truly represents “Convenient, calm, and comfortably connected Tokyo living.”