🌸 Overview
Line Name: Tobu Ogose Line
Operator: Tobu Railway Co., Ltd.
Route Length: approx. 10.9 km
Number of Stations: 8 (Sakado – Ogose)
Connections: Tobu Tojo Line (at Sakado) / JR Hachiko Line (at Ogose)
Opened: 1934 (formerly “Ogose Railway,” later merged into Tobu Railway)
Train Type: Local trains only (all operated by one-man system)
Travel Time: about 20 minutes (Sakado – Ogose)
📜 History & Background
・Opened in 1934 as the Ogose Railway connecting Sakado and Ogose, later merged into Tobu Railway.
・Functions as a branch of the Tobu Tojo Line, offering access to popular sightseeing spots such as Ogose Plum Grove and Kuroyama Falls.
・Still operates as a small-scale, community-based commuter line, supporting daily life for locals.
🌟 Highlights & Advantages
✅ 1. Great access to local sightseeing spots
The line connects directly to scenic destinations like plum blossoms, waterfalls, and hot springs in Ogose 🌸♨️
✅ 2. Easy access to central Tokyo via Tobu Tojo Line
With a simple transfer at Sakado, passengers can reach Ikebukuro or even Shibuya through the direct connection with the Fukutoshin Line 🚇
✅ 3. Calm residential area with affordable living costs
Quiet neighborhoods and lower rent and daily expenses compared to central Tokyo make it ideal for budget-conscious families 💴
✅ 4. Educational facilities along the route
Middle schools, high schools, and vocational colleges are located nearby, making it a popular commuting route for students 🎒
⚠️ Disadvantages
❌ 1. Limited train frequency
Only about 2–3 trains per hour during the day; intervals can be 20–30 minutes 🕐
❌ 2. Single track and one-man operation
Limited capacity means no major increase in trains even during rush hours 🚃
❌ 3. Longer travel time to central Tokyo
A transfer at Sakado is required, and commuting to Ikebukuro can take around an hour ⌛
🧺 Livability
Transportation: ★★☆☆☆ / Convenient to central Tokyo via Tojo Line, but limited frequency
Shopping: ★★☆☆☆ / Small supermarkets and local stores only
Nature & Environment: ★★★★★ / Surrounded by greenery and seasonal beauty 🌿
Child-Friendly: ★★★★☆ / Safe and quiet with schools and parks nearby
Safety: ★★★★★ / Very peaceful with a low crime rate
🏠 Real Estate Perspective
💴 Average Rent (as of 2025)
Sakado: ¥65,000–¥80,000 / ¥110,000–¥140,000 — Excellent access via Tobu Tojo Line
Ipponmatsu–Nishi-Ooya: ¥55,000–¥65,000 / ¥90,000–¥120,000 — Quiet and affordable residential areas
Ogose: ¥50,000–¥60,000 / ¥80,000–¥110,000 — Relaxed countryside vibe with sightseeing charm
🏘 Housing Trends
・Detached houses are the majority, with some low-rise apartments and public housing 🏡
・The Ogose area features residential zones surrounded by lush fields and rural scenery 🌾
・Thanks to low land prices, it’s becoming a popular area for building private homes ⤴️
🎯 Ideal For
✅ Those who want a calm suburban lifestyle surrounded by nature
✅ Families looking for affordable housing with access to central Tokyo
✅ Outdoor lovers who enjoy mountains, hot springs, and local travel
✅ People seeking a second home or peaceful relocation spot 🌲
📌 Summary
The Tobu Ogose Line represents the charm of “Nature × Tranquility × Affordability.”
Although it’s a bit far from central Tokyo, it offers a relaxed lifestyle with rich greenery and fresh air.
For those who value quality of life over speed, this line offers an ideal living environment —
peaceful, affordable, and surrounded by natural beauty 🌿🚃✨