🌸 Basic Information / Overview
Line Name: Tokyu Ikegami Line
Operator: Tokyu Corporation
Route Length: Approx. 10.9 km
Stations: 15
Starting / Ending Point: Gotanda (Shinagawa Ward) – Kamata (Ota Ward)
Connecting Lines: JR Yamanote Line・Tokyu Tamagawa Line・Tokyu Meguro Line・Keikyu Main Line, etc.
Opened: 1922 (partially) / Full line opened in 1928
📜 History & Background
1922: Opened as the Ikegami Electric Railway, with full service between Gotanda and Kamata starting in 1928.
1934: Merged with the Tokyo-Yokohama Electric Railway (the predecessor of Tokyu).
During the postwar economic boom, the line developed as a residential and commercial area with many schools and local stores.
Today, the Ikegami Line remains one of Tokyo’s most community-oriented and livable local lines.
🌟 Merits / Advantages
✅ 1. Compact and convenient
The entire 10.9 km route can be traveled in under 20 minutes—short, efficient, and easy to use.
✅ 2. Direct access to Gotanda and Kamata
Smooth transfers to major lines like the Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, and Keikyu Line.
✅ 3. Balanced mix of local charm and residential comfort
Stations like Togoshi-Ginza, Ikegami, and Yukigaya-Otsuka feature nostalgic shopping streets and peaceful neighborhoods.
✅ 4. Less crowded and stress-free commuting
Compared to central Tokyo lines, it’s easier to find a seat—ideal for a relaxed daily routine.
✅ 5. Great everyday convenience
Lively local shopping areas such as Togoshi Ginza Street and Ikegami Honmonji Street mean daily errands are easy on foot.
⚠️ Demerits / Things to Note
❌ 1. No through service
Transfers are required for long-distance trips beyond the line.
❌ 2. All-stops operation only
No express or rapid service, so travel times can be longer compared to other lines.
❌ 3. Uneven station convenience
Some stations like Nagahara, Ishikawadai, and Ontakesan are quieter and have fewer commercial options.
🧺 Livability (Comfort & Convenience)
Category: Rating: Comment
Transportation Access: ★★★☆☆: Dependent on transfers at Gotanda / Kamata / No through service
Shopping Facilities: ★★★★☆: Excellent local shopping streets / fewer large complexes
Education Environment: ★★★★☆: Plenty of public & private schools / family-friendly area
Nature & Environment: ★★★★☆: Access to Senzokuike Park・Ikegami Honmonji / green & cultural appeal
Safety: ★★★★☆: Calm residential atmosphere / minimal nightlife and noise
🏠 Real Estate Perspective
💴 Average Rent (as of 2025)
Station Name: 1R・1K / Family (2LDK〜): Comment
Gotanda: Approx. ¥100,000–¥130,000 / ¥180,000–¥250,000: Connected to Yamanote Line / higher rent due to business area
Togoshi-Ginza: Approx. ¥80,000–¥100,000 / ¥150,000–¥200,000: Famous shopping street / popular residential zone
Ikegami: Approx. ¥75,000–¥90,000 / ¥130,000–¥180,000: Traditional temple town / peaceful local vibe
Yukigaya-Otsuka: Approx. ¥70,000–¥85,000 / ¥120,000–¥160,000: Quiet residential area / affordable rent
Kamata: Approx. ¥80,000–¥105,000 / ¥150,000–¥210,000: Redeveloping urban center / excellent convenience
🏘 Housing Trends
Abundant 1K and 1LDK apartments, ideal for singles and first-time renters.
Ikegami・Yukigaya-Otsuka・Kugahara areas offer many family-friendly condos and owner-occupied residences.
The entire line has matured as a “for living” neighborhood, with easy access to daily needs and calm surroundings.
🎯 Recommended For
✅ People who prefer calm, residential areas within Tokyo
✅ Those who enjoy local, community-focused neighborhoods with shopping streets
✅ Commuters heading mainly toward Gotanda, Shinagawa, or Oimachi rather than Shibuya/Shinjuku
✅ Renters seeking central Tokyo access without high prices
📌 Summary
The Tokyu Ikegami Line perfectly balances Tokyo convenience with small-town warmth.
While it lacks express trains or through service, its quiet atmosphere and livability make it one of the most comfortable lines for daily life.
It’s especially popular among families, seniors, and women living alone, offering safety, affordability, and a welcoming community feel.
For those who wish to “live in Tokyo—but quietly,” the Ikegami Line is an ideal choice.