🌸 Basic Information
Line name: Tobu Daishi Line
Operator: Tobu Railway Co., Ltd.
Length: Approx. 1.0 km (one of the shortest private railway lines in Japan)
Stations: 2 (Nishiarai – Daishimae)
Connection: Tobu Skytree Line (at Nishiarai Station)
Opened: 1931 (originally opened in 1900 as the “Daishi Tramway”)
Operation style: One-man service / All local trains
Travel time: About 3 minutes
📜 History & Background
・Opened in 1900 as the Daishi Tramway, a local streetcar line.
・Converted to a full railway in 1931 under Tobu Railway’s operation.
・Originally built to transport visitors to Nishiarai Daishi Temple (Sojiji).
・Later became a daily commuting and school route for local residents.
・Today, it remains one of Tokyo’s rare “dead-end” branch lines with unique charm.
🌟 Highlights & Advantages
✅ 1. A Historic “Temple Line” with Cultural Value
Provides direct access to Nishiarai Daishi, one of Tokyo’s most famous temples — especially crowded during New Year visits.
✅ 2. Barrier-Free and Easy to Use
Short distance from ticket gates to the platform makes it ideal for seniors, children, and temple visitors.
✅ 3. Excellent Access via Nishiarai Station
Seamless connection to the Tobu Skytree Line, offering smooth rides to central Tokyo areas like Asakusa, Oshiage, and Kita-Senju.
✅ 4. Convenient Surroundings
Large shopping complexes such as Ario Nishiarai and Nishiarai Tosca make everyday living comfortable and enjoyable.
⚠️ Points to Consider
❌ 1. Extremely Short Line
Only 1 km long — primarily serves the Nishiarai to Daishimae route.
❌ 2. Limited Train Frequency
About 2–3 trains per hour during daytime. It’s best to check the timetable in advance.
❌ 3. Slightly Old Facilities
Although renovations are ongoing, the nostalgic, local vibe remains.
🧺 Livability & Local Comfort
Transport access: ★★★☆☆ – Smooth transfer to the Tobu Skytree Line at Nishiarai / good city access
Shopping facilities: ★★★★☆ – Ario, Tosca, and supermarkets nearby
Nature & environment: ★★★☆☆ – Limited greenery, but Nishiarai Daishi Temple and parks are nearby
Child-raising environment: ★★★★☆ – Plenty of schools and daycare centers
Safety: ★★★★☆ – Well-populated area with a calm and safe atmosphere
🏠 Real Estate Perspective
💴 Average Rent (as of 2025)
Nishiarai: ¥75,000–¥95,000 / ¥130,000–¥170,000 (increasingly popular area in Adachi Ward)
Daishimae: ¥65,000–¥85,000 / ¥110,000–¥150,000 (quiet residential zone with stable prices)
🏘 Housing Trends
・Around Nishiarai Station: mix of condominiums and detached houses.
・Redevelopment projects have brought new high-rise apartments and retail spaces.
・Daishimae area retains its traditional low-rise residential streets with a nostalgic touch.
🎯 Ideal for People Who…
✅ Want everything within walking distance — station, shopping, temples, parks.
✅ Prefer a calm, local lifestyle within Tokyo’s 23 wards.
✅ Seek affordable rent with convenient city access.
✅ Value easy transfers via the Tobu Skytree Line.
📌 Summary
The Tobu Daishi Line is a rare local railway that beautifully combines daily life, history, and spirituality within modern Tokyo.
Despite its short 1-km distance, it continues to serve the community around Nishiarai Daishi Temple, offering a warm, neighborhood feel.
With convenient access to the city center, a peaceful atmosphere, and well-developed shopping areas,
💫 it’s the perfect spot for an affordable, relaxed “downtown Tokyo” lifestyle — especially loved by families and seniors.