🌸 Basic Information / Overview
Line Name: Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line
Operator: Tokyu Corporation
Route Length: Approx. 31.5km
Stations: 27 (Shibuya〜Chuo-Rinkan)
Connections: Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line (direct service)・Odakyu Enoshima Line (Chuo-Rinkan)
Opening Year: 1966 (Mizonokuchi〜Nagatsuta)・Extended to Shibuya in 1977
📜 History & Background
The line was developed as part of Tokyu’s Tama Den-en Toshi Plan, combining suburban housing development with railway infrastructure.
It connects central Tokyo (Shibuya) with Kanagawa’s Yamato City (Chuo-Rinkan), serving as a bedtown commuter line.
In 1978, direct operation with the Hanzomon Line began, dramatically improving access to central Tokyo.
Today, it remains one of the most popular lines in eastern Kanagawa, known for its balance of greenery and convenience.
🌟 Merits / Advantages
✅ 1. Direct access to Shibuya・Omotesando・Otemachi
Through service via the Hanzomon Line allows smooth access to major business districts without transfers.
✅ 2. High livability in redeveloped areas
Futako-Tamagawa・Mizonokuchi・Tama-Plaza・Aobadai all feature excellent shopping, education, and transport options.
✅ 3. Well-designed residential environments
As its name “Den-en Toshi (Garden City)” suggests, the line is known for quiet streets・greenery・well-planned infrastructure.
✅ 4. Strong education and medical network
Many reputable schools and hospitals attract families seeking a safe and comfortable lifestyle.
⚠️ Demerits / Things to Note
❌ 1. Heavy congestion during rush hours
Especially between Futako-Tamagawa〜Shibuya, congestion rates can exceed 180% during peak times.
❌ 2. Frequent delays
Because of interconnections with the Hanzomon Line and Odakyu Line, delays can easily spread across lines.
❌ 3. High rent and cost of living
Due to the Tokyu brand and high-quality residential reputation, prices are generally above average.
❌ 4. Longer distance between stations・some hilly areas
In some residential zones, bus or bicycle use is essential for reaching the nearest station.
🧺 Livability (Comfort / Convenience)
Category:Rating:Comment
Transportation Access:★★★★★:Direct to Hanzomon Line / One line to Shibuya・Nagatacho・Otemachi
Shopping Facilities:★★★★:Futako-Tamagawa・Tama Plaza・Aobadai / Great commercial convenience
Education Environment:★★★★★:Many reputable public・private schools / Excellent academic areas
Nature・Environment:★★★★☆:Lots of parks・greenways / Well-planned streetscape
Safety:★★★★☆:Many upscale residential areas / Generally safe and calm atmosphere
🏠 Real Estate Perspective
Station Name:1R・1K / Family Type (2LDK〜):Comment
Shibuya:Approx. ¥120,000〜¥150,000 / ¥250,000〜¥350,000:Terminal・Major commercial hub
Futako-Tamagawa:Approx. ¥110,000〜¥130,000 / ¥220,000〜¥300,000:Redeveloped area・Many high-rise towers
Tama Plaza:Approx. ¥90,000〜¥110,000 / ¥180,000〜¥250,000:Top family area / Balance of education・commerce
Aobadai:Approx. ¥85,000〜¥100,000 / ¥170,000〜¥230,000:Quiet・Luxury residential neighborhood
Chuo-Rinkan:Approx. ¥70,000〜¥90,000 / ¥140,000〜¥180,000:Connects to Odakyu Line / More affordable rent
🏘 Housing Trends
・Futako-Tamagawa〜Tama Plaza:For upper-income families / Many luxury condos・rental apartments
・Aobadai・Azamino:Peaceful detached housing areas・Calm and green living environment
・Beyond Chuo-Rinkan:Slightly farther from Tokyo / Lower rent・Good cost performance
🎯 Recommended For
✅ Families who work in central Tokyo but prefer raising children in calm suburban surroundings.
✅ People seeking great education・convenient shopping・good transportation balance.
✅ Commuters who prioritize direct access to Shibuya・Omotesando・Nagatacho.
✅ Singles or DINKs who value the Tokyu brand・premium suburban comfort.
📌 Summary
The Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line combines suburban serenity with exceptional access to central Tokyo.
It excels in education, safety, shopping, and transportation, often ranking among Tokyo’s top family-friendly lines.
While congestion and high rent can be challenges, it offers a lifestyle that balances security・comfort・and quality of life, making it a continuously desirable area to live.